A legal arrangement allows an individual to utilize property for the duration of their life, after which ownership transfers to another designated party. This arrangement grants the individual, termed the life tenant, the right to possess, use, and derive income from the property during their lifetime. Upon the life tenant’s death, the property automatically transfers to the remainderman, who holds a future interest in the property. For example, an elderly parent might grant a child a future interest in their home, while retaining the right to live there for the remainder of their life.
This approach can be valuable for estate planning, offering a way to provide for someone’s housing needs while ensuring the property eventually passes to intended beneficiaries. It can also offer some protection from certain creditors, as well as simplifying the probate process. Historically, these arrangements were often used within families to ensure property remained within the bloodline while providing for family members. The specific rights and responsibilities of both the life tenant and the remainderman are defined by the establishing deed and are subject to state laws.