I Just Inherited Mineral Rights—What Now?

First: You're Not Alone in This

Inheriting mineral rights is confusing for most people. You might have received documents you don't understand, small royalty checks from companies you've never heard of, or discovered minerals mentioned in a will without any explanation of what they are.

Here's the good news: mineral rights can be a valuable asset, and you have options. This guide will help you understand what you've inherited and what to do next.

Step 1: Understand What You've Inherited

Mineral rights are the ownership of underground resources (oil, gas, and other minerals) separate from the surface land. You can own minerals beneath land you've never seen, in a state you've never visited.

Clues You Might Own Mineral Rights:

Royalty checks from oil or gas companies

Division orders asking for your signature

Lease offers from energy companies

Mention of "minerals" in a will or trust

Letters about "suspense" or unclaimed royalties

Documents referencing a state/county where your family lived

Step 2: Gather What You Have

Collect any paperwork you received or can find. You don't need everything—start with what's available:

Step 3: Figure Out Where the Minerals Are

Minerals are tied to a specific location. To understand what you have, you need to know:

State: Which state are the minerals in?

County: Which county within the state?

Legal description: The specific land description (section, township, range, or lot/block)

Where to Find This:

Royalty checks usually list the state and well name

Division orders show the county and legal description

Deeds contain the full legal description

The deceased may have had property in states where they or their family lived

Step 4: Understand Your Options

Once you know what you have, you have three main options:

Option 1: Sell for Cash

Convert your inherited minerals into immediate cash. You receive a lump sum payment and no longer deal with royalties, paperwork, or management.

Option 2: Lease and Collect Royalties

If your minerals aren't already leased, you can lease them to an oil company. You'd receive a bonus payment upfront and royalties if they produce oil or gas.

Option 3: Keep and Monitor

Continue owning the minerals, collect any royalties, and manage the asset yourself. You can always sell later if you change your mind.

Common Questions from New Heirs

Step 5: Get a Professional Valuation

The best way to understand your inherited minerals is to have them professionally evaluated. A valuation tells you:

What the minerals are worth in today's market

Whether there's production or development potential

What options make sense for your situation

We provide free evaluations for inherited minerals. Even if you don't plan to sell, knowing the value helps you make informed decisions.

Inherited Minerals? Let Us Help You Understand Them

Get a free evaluation of your inherited mineral rights. We'll research what you have, explain your options, and answer your questions—no obligation.

Or call us at (404) 604-6364