What do we call it when someone gives away their belongings while still living?

When someone gives away their belongings while still living, this is referred to as an inter vivos transfer. The term "inter vivos" is Latin for "between the living," and it specifically pertains to gifts made during a person's lifetime rather than through a will or after death. Such transfers may involve the outright gift of property, assets, or any personal belongings, allowing the giver to see the impact of their generosity while they are alive.

Testamentary transfer, on the other hand, refers to the distribution of a person's assets through a will after their death, which does not apply to living gifts. Probate transfer is related to the legal process of administering a deceased person's estate, ensuring that debts are paid and the remaining assets are distributed according to the will or state laws, and thus does not encompass living gifts either. Lastly, posthumous transfer refers to the transfer of property or assets after someone has passed away, further distinguishing it from inter vivos transfers.