A general bequest refers to a type of gift made in a will where the specific property given to a beneficiary is not identified. Instead, the gift can be fulfilled using any of the general assets available in the estate. This means that the executor can choose which assets to use to satisfy the bequest, providing flexibility in managing the estate's resources.
General bequests are commonly used in estate planning and probate law. They allow individuals to leave gifts to beneficiaries without specifying particular items, making it easier for executors to manage the estate. This term is relevant in various legal contexts, including:
Individuals can utilize legal templates from US Legal Forms to create wills that include general bequests, ensuring their intentions are clearly documented.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A person's will states, "I leave my niece a general bequest of $10,000." The executor can fulfill this by using any available cash or assets from the estate.
Example 2: A will includes, "I bequeath all my personal property as a general bequest to my nephew." The executor can choose from any personal items in the estate to satisfy this bequest. (hypothetical example)
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
| State | Key Differences |
|---|---|
| California | Allows for specific language in wills to clarify general bequests. |
| New York | Has specific rules regarding the fulfillment of general bequests from estate assets. |
| Ala | General bequests are treated similarly but may have unique probate requirements. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| General bequest | A gift of a general amount or type of property without specification. | Can be satisfied from any general assets. |
| Specific bequest | A gift of a particular item or piece of property. | Must be fulfilled with the exact item specified. |
| Residuary bequest | A gift of the remainder of the estate after specific and general bequests are made. | Applies to what is left after other gifts are distributed. |
If you are considering including a general bequest in your will, it's advisable to:
In complex situations, professional legal assistance may be necessary to navigate estate laws.
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Type of gift | General bequest |
| Specificity | Non-specific assets |
| Common legal area | Estate planning and probate |
| Executor's role | Determines how to fulfill the bequest |
A general bequest does not specify a particular item, while a specific bequest identifies a particular asset to be given.