[in-tes-tuh-see] 
| the state or fact of being intestate at death. |
| in·tes·tate (ĭn-těs'tāt', -tĭt) adj.
[Middle English, from Old French intestat, from Latin intestātus : in-, not; see in-1 + testātus, testate, from past participle of testārī, to make a will; see testament.] in·tes'ta·cy (-tə-sē) n. |
Intestacy
The act of dying without a legal will.
Investopedia Commentary
When a person dies without a will, the government will assume responsibility and determine the method by which assets will be divided.
See also: Assets, Beneficiary, Escheat, Will
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