Claim Against An Estate Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Claim Against An Estate.

Claim Against An Estate (noun phrase): A formal request made by a creditor or person owed money by the recently deceased, seeking repayment from the deceased's estate. This claim must be made during a specified period after the person's death announcement, determined by law. If not submitted within this time, the claim may be dismissed. The executor or administrator of the estate may approve, partially approve, or disapprove the claim. If disapproved, the claimant has the right to take legal action.