When a person dies with a will, how is their estate classified?

When a person dies with a will, their estate is classified as testate. This classification indicates that the deceased has documented their wishes regarding the distribution of their assets through a legally recognized will. The will provides clear instructions on how the individual wishes their property and financial matters to be handled after their passing, thus ensuring that their intentions are honored.

In the context of estate administration, being classified as testate facilitates the probate process, where the will is validated, and the executor named in the will oversees the settlement of the estate according to the deceased's directives. This contrasts with intestate estates, which occur when a person dies without a will. In such cases, state laws determine how the estate is divided, often leading to outcomes that may not reflect the deceased's wishes.

Understanding the significance of testate versus intestate is crucial for anyone studying estate law or involved in estate planning, as it directly impacts the management and distribution of assets.