Who inherits personal property under a will?

The term that specifically refers to an individual who inherits personal property under a will is "legatee." A legatee is someone who is designated to receive a specific asset or a portion of an estate, usually in the form of personal property, as articulated in the will. This classification applies to those named in the will, distinguishing them from other roles such as heirs, executors, or beneficiaries.

While a beneficiary is a broader term that encompasses anyone who benefits from a will—including those who inherit both personal and real property—a legatee specifically identifies those who inherit personal property. Executors are responsible for administering the estate, ensuring the terms of the will are followed, rather than inheriting property themselves. Heirs are individuals who would inherit under intestacy laws—those that apply when someone dies without a valid will—making this term less relevant when considering the context of inheriting via a will. This distinction confirms that "legatee" is the most accurate answer regarding those who inherit personal property as outlined in a will.