Which term describes the transfer of assets to the state when the decedent dies intestate with no eligible heirs?

Which term describes the transfer of assets to the state when the decedent dies intestate with no eligible heirs?

• A. Dower
• B. Degree of consanguinity
• C. Escheat
• D. Renunciation

Answer: (C)

Escheat occurs when someone dies without a will and with no eligible heirs, so the property transfers to the state. If there’s no one who can legally inherit, the law assigns ownership to the state to prevent the property from going ownerless and to support public needs. Dower refers to a widow’s right to a portion of her deceased husband’s estate, not to the state acquiring assets. Degree of consanguinity is about how closely related someone is to the decedent, used to determine who may inherit. Renunciation is when an heir voluntarily declines an inheritance, which doesn't cause the estate to go to the state.

Escheat occurs when someone dies without a will and with no eligible heirs, so the property transfers to the state. If there’s no one who can legally inherit, the law assigns ownership to the state to prevent the property from going ownerless and to support public needs.

Dower refers to a widow’s right to a portion of her deceased husband’s estate, not to the state acquiring assets. Degree of consanguinity is about how closely related someone is to the decedent, used to determine who may inherit. Renunciation is when an heir voluntarily declines an inheritance, which doesn't cause the estate to go to the state.