Family Allowance
A reasonable cash allowance payable during probate from the decedent's estate to support the surviving spouse and minor children while the estate is being administered.
Encyclopedia entry: Family Allowance
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family allowance
Family allowance gives a surviving spouse and children access to a passing spouse or parent’s estate in the interim between passing and the distribution of the estate . The family allowance gives spouses and children necessary financial support that is determined by statute in each state. The goal of the allowance is to fill the gap of financial support that the passing family member filled prior to passing.
[Last reviewed in July of 2021 by the Wex Definitions Team
]
Wex
inheritances & estates
Encyclopedia content from Cornell LII Wex (CC-BY-NC-SA 2.5).
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This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.