The distinction between an heir and a beneficiary is crucial in understanding their roles in estate planning. In the context of rights to an estate, heirs' entitlements are explicitly outlined under a Trust or Will. In cases where there is no formal Estate Plan, heirs are legally recognized as the next of kin, granting them rights to inherit property and assets in the absence of a Will or Trust. The succession order, dictated by state law, typically follows a pattern of spouse, children, descendants, and close relatives.
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