A bequest is a gift of property made through a will to a named person, charity, or other recipient.
Why a bequest matters
A bequest matters because a will often distributes property through specific gifts, general gifts, or residual gifts. The wording can affect priority, what happens if property is no longer owned at death, and how remaining estate property is divided.
Bequests can also create disputes when a will is unclear or when estate assets are insufficient.
Where a bequest appears
Bequests appear in wills, codicils, probate petitions, distribution schedules, accountings, beneficiary notices, and will contests.
Practical example
A will says, “I leave my piano to my nephew and $10,000 to a local charity.” Those gifts are bequests that the estate may need to administer.
How a bequest differs from nearby terms
A bequest differs from a devisee because the bequest is the gift, while the devisee is the person or entity receiving it. It differs from a residuary estate because the residuary estate is what remains after specific gifts and obligations are handled.
Related terms
Quick knowledge check
What is the difference between a bequest and the person who receives it?