The MinRight Blog
Updates, tips, and real-world use cases for managing your mineral rights.
Paid-Up vs. Delay Rental Leases Explained
Two common lease structures handle the time between signing and drilling differently. Here's how each one works.
Prior Period Adjustments on Your Royalty Check
A negative number on your check stub doesn't always mean something's wrong. Here's what prior period adjustments are and why they happen.
Mineral Rights vs. Water Rights: Are They the Same Thing
Mineral rights cover oil, gas, and other minerals. Water rights are a separate legal concept entirely. Here's how they differ.
When Mineral Rights Skip a Generation
Mineral rights can pass through a family for decades without anyone formally updating the title. Here's what that looks like and how to fix it.
Pooling and Unitization Explained for Mineral Owners
If you received a pooling order or notice, here's what it means for your mineral rights and your royalty payments.
Percentage Depletion vs. Cost Depletion Explained
You can deduct depletion on your mineral royalty income, but there are two methods. Here's how each works and which one usually benefits small owners.
What Happens When a Well Stops Producing
A well that used to pay you every quarter has gone quiet. Here's what might be happening and what it means for your lease and your minerals.
What 'Suspense' Means on Your Royalty Check Stub
If your royalty payments are being held in suspense, here's what it means, why it happens, and how to get your money released.
Unclaimed Royalty Payments: How to Find Yours
Millions of dollars in royalty payments go unclaimed every year. Here's how to search for yours.
Dormant Mineral Acts: States Where You Can Lose Rights
Several states have laws that can strip your mineral rights if you don't take action within a set period. Here's what you need to know.
What Is a Landman and What Do They Actually Do
Landmen show up when there's drilling activity. Here's who they are, who they work for, and why they're contacting you.
Inherited Mineral Rights and Stepped-Up Basis
When you inherit mineral rights, you get a new tax basis. Understanding stepped-up basis can save you real money.
Why Your Royalty Check Price Doesn't Match Oil Prices
You saw oil at $80 on the news. Your check stub says $62. Here's why those numbers are different and what your check price actually represents.
How to Report Royalty Income on Schedule E
Royalty income from mineral rights goes on Schedule E. Here's a straightforward walk-through of what goes where.
What to Look for Before Signing a Mineral Lease
A landman shows up with a lease. Before you sign anything, here are the key terms to understand and negotiate.