What document formalizes a person’s intentions concerning the distribution of their property upon death?

The document that formalizes a person’s intentions regarding the distribution of their property upon death is a will. A will is a legal instrument that specifies how a person would like their assets to be divided after their passing. It can also name guardians for minor children and appoint an executor to carry out the terms of the will. This makes it a crucial tool for ensuring that a deceased person’s wishes are clearly expressed and legally recognized in the probate process.

While other options present important legal documents, they serve different purposes. A trust, for instance, is often used to manage assets during a person’s lifetime and can also provide for the distribution of assets after death; however, it does not specifically outline the holder’s intentions like a will does. A power of attorney allows an individual to designate someone to make decisions on their behalf while they are alive, especially concerning financial or medical matters, but it does not pertain to the distribution of property upon death. A living will addresses healthcare decisions and end-of-life care preferences but does not dictate how assets are to be distributed after someone passes away. Thus, the will is the direct answer to the question regarding the distribution of property at death.