Dying without a Will

Over two thirds of the UK's population do not have a Will. If this applies to you, there is a risk that your wishes for your loved ones may not be met.

In this situation, the law will determine who benefits from your estate through the rules of intestacy, depending on your circumstances as you can see below.

Married/civil partner with children

Your partner will be entitled to at least the first £322,000 of your estate, all of your personal possessions and half of the rest. The remaining half will pass to your children when they reach age 18.

Married/civil partner with no children

Your partner will be entitled to the estate, providing they survive 28 days.

Unmarried/no civil partner with children or grandchildren

Your children and/or grandchildren will be entitled to the estate.

Unmarried/no civil partner with no children or grandchildren

Your estate will go to any other surviving relatives, according to a certain order. If you have no surviving relatives, your estate will go to the Crown.

For a death before 1 October 2024, different rules apply. Visit www.gov.uk for further information.