Which bequest occurs when the beneficiary dies before the testator?

• A. Lapse of a bequest
• B. Demonstrative bequest
• C. General bequest
• D. Residuary bequest

Answer: (A)

Lapse of a bequest is the situation that occurs when the named beneficiary dies before the testator. In that case, the gift does not take effect as intended and typically fails to pass to anyone unless an anti-lapse rule applies, which might redirect the gift to the beneficiary’s descendants who survive the testator. If no such rule applies, the bequest lapses and may become part of the residue or pass according to other estate provisions or intestacy rules.

A demonstrative bequest is a bequest paid from a named source, not about what happens if the beneficiary dies. A general bequest is a monetary gift not tied to a specific asset. A residuary bequest is what remains of the estate after all specific and general gifts have been satisfied.