Decedent

An individual who has died, leaving behind estate assets, like a life insurance policy, to be distributed to beneficiaries, according to his/her wishes.

The legal term for a deceased person, particularly in contexts related to estate planning, probate, and inheritance. Understanding the decedent’s legal status is essential for processing their estate, including determining the validity of wills, handling debts, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. The decedent’s affairs must be managed according to the laws governing probate and the specific terms of any estate planning documents they established.