What is a bequest?

A bequest refers specifically to the act of giving personal property through a will. It is a legal term that describes the transfer of assets, such as money, jewelry, or other personal belongings, to designated beneficiaries upon the death of the person who created the will, known as the testator.

This concept is important in estate planning, as it outlines how an individual's personal property will be distributed according to their wishes after their passing. By having a bequest in the will, the testator can ensure that their possessions are given to the individuals they choose, rather than being subject to intestate laws, which govern the distribution of property when someone dies without a will.

In contrast, transferring real estate typically falls under a different legal framework, known as a conveyance, and is specifically related to real property. Similarly, intestacy refers to the legal process that occurs when someone dies without a valid will, and a standard will format does not capture the specifics of bequests. Understanding the precise nature of a bequest is crucial for proper estate planning and ensuring that personal property is allocated according to the deceased's wishes.