What term describes someone who dies without a will?

The term that describes someone who dies without a will is "intestate." When an individual passes away without having created a legally binding will, their estate is considered intestate. In such cases, the distribution of their assets will follow the laws of intestacy, which dictate how property is divided among surviving relatives. This process often involves the court appointing an administrator to manage the deceased's estate and ensure that the distribution aligns with state law.

Understanding the term "intestate" is essential for recognizing the legal implications of dying without a will, including how heirs are determined and the potential for disputes among family members over the estate. The other terms mentioned refer to different roles in the will process: an executor is appointed to carry out the terms of a will, a beneficiary is someone who receives assets from a will, and a testator is the individual who creates a will.