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testator

A testator is a person who has died and has left a will . The term testator is used to refer to the deceased person, regardless of gender, and has incorporated the antiquated term for female testators, testatrix . 

In order to create a valid will, states require a testator to have testamentary capacity at the time of signing the will. In most states, this requires the testator to be of legal age , usually eighteen years old, and to be of sound mind . 

[Last reviewed in June of 2025 by the Wex Definitions Team
]

Wex

• LIFE EVENTS

• wills

• PROPERTY

• trusts

• inheritances & estates

• wex definitions