An additional legacy refers to a gift or bequest made to a legatee through the same will or a codicil that also includes a previous legacy. This type of legacy is often described as an accumulative legacy, as it adds to the original gift rather than replacing it. Essentially, if a person receives multiple gifts from the same source, the additional legacy represents these supplementary bequests.
Additional legacies are primarily used in the context of estate planning and probate law. They come into play when a testator (the person who creates a will) wishes to provide multiple gifts to the same beneficiary. Understanding additional legacies is crucial for ensuring that the distribution of an estate is clear and legally binding. Users may find it beneficial to utilize legal templates from US Legal Forms to draft wills or codicils that effectively outline additional legacies.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A testator bequeaths $10,000 to their friend in their will. Later, they decide to add an additional legacy of $5,000 to the same friend in a codicil. The friend will receive a total of $15,000.
Example 2: A grandmother leaves her granddaughter a family heirloom in her will and later adds a codicil that grants her an additional legacy of $2,000 for her education. This ensures that the granddaughter benefits from both the heirloom and the monetary support. (hypothetical example)
| State | Notes |
|---|---|
| California | Allows codicils to modify or add legacies easily. |
| New York | Requires specific formalities for codicils to be valid. |
| Texas | Recognizes both written and oral codicils under certain conditions. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Legacy | A gift of property or money left in a will. | Additional legacies are supplementary gifts, while legacies can be standalone. |
| Bequest | A specific type of legacy, typically referring to personal property. | Bequests are often more specific than additional legacies, which can include various gifts. |
If you find yourself involved with additional legacies, consider reviewing your will or codicil to ensure clarity in your bequests. It may be helpful to use legal templates from US Legal Forms to draft these documents accurately. If your situation is complex, consulting a legal professional is advisable to navigate any potential issues.
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A legacy is a single gift in a will, while an additional legacy refers to a supplementary gift made through the same will or a codicil.