The Demographics of Intergenerational Transmission of Wealth: An Empirical Study of Testacy and Intestacy on Family Property

Abstract

In this article, I analyze many of the differences between testate and intestate decedents and suggest areas of concern for law- and policy-makers, as well as practicing lawyers and financial planners. Identifying the right demographic at risk for wealth deterioration may allow for interventions that can slow or reverse the widening wealth gap and ultimately help the next few generations build economically stable lives. To that end, I discuss how a number of demographic differences (wealth, age, race, sex, and marital status) affect the downward trajectory of certain groups and the upward trajectory of others.