Which term refers to a legal claim on a property to ensure payment of a debt?

The term that refers to a legal claim on a property to ensure payment of a debt is a lien. A lien is a legal right or interest that a lender has in a borrower's property, granted until the debt obligation is satisfied. Essentially, it serves as a security for a loan, meaning that if the borrower fails to meet the obligations, the lender has the right to take possession of the property through foreclosure or other legal means. This mechanism protects the interests of creditors and provides a formal means for recourse in the event of default.

In contrast, an easement is a legal right to use another's land for a specific purpose, not a claim for debt repayment. A mortgage, while related to securing a loan with real property, is the actual agreement or document that creates the lien but does not directly refer to the claim itself. An encumbrance encompasses any claim against a property, including liens, but is broader in definition and includes various types of claims, not solely those that ensure payment of a debt.