Answer:Per stirpes means that if your beneficiary predeceases you, the inheritance is divided equally among his/her lineal descendants

. Biological children and adopted children are considered lineal descendants; stepchildren are not.

Are stepchildren entitled to inheritance?

Stepchildren do not have inheritance rights unless you have legally adopted them. If you want your stepchildren to inherit from you, you must specifically name them as beneficiaries using at least one estate planning tool, such as a will, trust, or beneficiary designation.

Does per stirpes include step grandchildren?

Stepchildren can inherit under per stirpes only if they have been legally adopted; an adopted child inherits the same as a natural born child.