Trust FundsIntermediateCalifornia Exam

If a broker discovers a shortage in the trust account caused by a bank error, what is the BEST course of action?

ACover the shortage with the broker's personal funds and document the correctionCorrect
BClose the account and open a new one, under standard California trust fund handling rules
CWait to see if the bank corrects it, as required by DRE trust account regulations
DReport it to the DRE immediately and close the business, consistent with standard broker trust accounting practice

Why Cover the shortage with the broker's personal funds and document the correction Is Correct

Answer A: Cover the shortage with the broker's personal funds and document the correction

If a shortage results from a bank error, the broker should immediately use their own funds to cover the shortage (to protect client funds), notify the bank, and document the correction in the trust account records. Client funds must always be fully available.

Exam Tip: Trust Funds

Trust fund questions test the rules for handling client money. Know the deadlines for depositing trust funds, what constitutes commingling vs. conversion, and the penalties for violations.

Key Trust Funds Terms in This Question

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