The Rhode Island Certificate of Devise or Descent is a document issued by the Rhode Island Division of Taxation that serves as proof of an individual's right to inherit property. The certificate is issued after a Rhode Island probate court has determined the rightful heir or heirs of a decedent's estate. Depending on the type of estate, there are two types of Certificates of Devise or Descent: (1) a Certificate of Descent, which is issued when a decedent dies without a will; and (2) a Certificate of Devise, which is issued when a decedent dies with a will. The certificate includes the names of the decedent, the heirs, their relationship to the decedent, and the date of issuance. It is used to transfer title to real estate, bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and other assets.