Define: Specific Bequest

A specific bequest is a type of gift in a will or trust that directs the transfer of a specific asset or property to a designated beneficiary. Unlike a general bequest, which involves a gift of a specific amount of money from the estate, a specific bequest involves the transfer of a particular item of property, such as real estate, a piece of jewelry, or a valuable collection. The specific asset or property is identified and described in the will or trust document, and the beneficiary named to receive it is typically specified as well. Specific bequests take priority over other types of bequests and are fulfiled first during the estate administration process.

A specific item of property that is left to a named beneficiary under a will. If the person who made the will no longer owns the property when he dies, the bequest fails. In other words, the beneficiary cannot substitute a similar item in the estate. Example: If John leaves his 1954 Mercedes to Patti, and when John dies the 1954 Mercedes is long gone, Patti doesn’t receive John’s current car or the cash equivalent of the Mercedes. See ademption.

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.