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ASSOCIATION BANK ACCOUNTS

California Financial Institutions. As provided for in Civil Code § 5380, managing agents, either persons or entities, who for compensation or, in expectation of compensation, exercise control over the assets of the association who receive funds belonging to an association must deposit them into:

  • An escrow account with a bank, savings association, or credit union in California, which is insured by the federal government, or

  • An account under the control of the association, or

  • A trust fund account maintained by the managing agent in a bank, savings association, or credit union in California.

A "managing agent" does not include a full-time employee of the association or a regulated financial institution operating within the normal course of business, or an attorney at law acting within the scope of his or her license.

Separate Accounts. Associations must establish at least two accounts, operating and reserves. Funds must be kept separate, distinct, and apart from the funds belonging to the managing agent or to any other person or entity for whom the managing agent holds funds in trust. The managing agent must maintain a separate record of the receipt and disposition of all funds, including any interest earned on the funds. With a limited exception, the managing agent may not commingle the funds of the association with his or her own money or with the money of others.

Interest. No interest earned on funds in the account shall inure directly or indirectly to the benefit of the managing agent or his or her employees.

Attorneys' Fees. The prevailing party in an action to enforce this section shall be entitled to recover reasonable legal fees and court costs.

ASSISTANCE: Associations needing legal assistance can contact us. To stay current with issues affecting community associations, subscribe to the Davis-Stirling Newsletter.

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