Witness
A legally required person to watch a document being signed, to assure the authenticity of the document.
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Trust
Another estate planning option. Trusts may provide tax benefits and complex distribution of assets. They require professional assistance and are complicated to assemble.
Testator
A person who makes a will
Power of Attorney
An authorization to act as a person’s agent (as if they acted). Power of Attorney can be specifically for one task, or for general affairs
Intestate
A person who dies without making a will
Executor
A person appointed by the recently deceased to carry out their wishes, including distribution of the estate.
Escheat
When the state receives property because no person or institution is legally able to
Decedent
A person who has passed away
Beneficiary
The person or institution who receives property designated by will or Trust.