A person who dies leaving a will is referred to as a?

A person who dies leaving a will is referred to as a testator. The term "testator" specifically denotes an individual who has made a legally binding will, outlining how their assets and estate are to be distributed upon their death. This distinction is crucial in legal terminology, as it indicates that the individual has expressed their wishes regarding their estate through a formal document.

In contrast, a beneficiary is someone who is entitled to receive assets or benefits from a trust, will, or insurance policy, but does not refer to the deceased individual. The term decedent refers broadly to any person who has died, without the implication of having left a will. An heir is someone who is legally entitled to inherit property, typically based on laws of intestacy, if there is no will present; thus, this term does not apply specifically to those who leave behind a will. Understanding these distinctions is essential for navigating estate planning and probate processes.