What Happens If You Die Without a Will in the UK?
It’s something few of us want to think about — but knowing what happens if you pass away without a will is one of the best reasons to make one.
In the UK, if you die without a valid will, your estate (everything you own) will be divided according to intestacy laws rather than your personal wishes. This can lead to confusion, stress, and unintended consequences for your loved ones.
At Coastal Legacy, we help people across Hampshire, Gosport, Fareham, and Portsmouth put plans in place so their families are never left in this difficult position.
Here’s what you need to know.
Understanding Intestacy
When someone dies without a will, they are said to have died intestate. The law then decides how their money, property, and belongings are distributed.
The rules of intestacy are strict and don’t take personal circumstances into account. This means that even if you’ve lived with a partner for many years or promised a family heirloom to a friend, those wishes may not be honoured.
Who Inherits If There’s No Will?
Under current UK intestacy rules, inheritance follows a specific order:
If You’re Married or in a Civil Partnership
Your spouse or civil partner will inherit most or all of your estate, depending on its value and whether you have children.
If you have children, your spouse receives the first £322,000 of your estate, all your personal possessions, and half of anything that remains. The other half goes to your children, divided equally.
If You’re Unmarried or in a Long-Term Relationship
Unmarried partners do not automatically inherit anything, no matter how long you’ve lived together. Unless your name is on jointly owned property or bank accounts, your partner may receive nothing.
If You Have No Partner or Children
Your estate passes to your next closest relatives — parents, siblings, nieces or nephews, and so on. If no relatives can be found, your entire estate may go to the Crown.
The Problems This Can Cause
Dying without a will often leads to:
- Family disagreements over who inherits what
- Financial hardship for partners or dependants left out
- Delays and legal costs during probate
- Stress for loved ones who have to manage complex paperwork
Without clear instructions, your estate may not be handled as you would have wanted.
Protecting Your Family’s Future
The only way to ensure your wishes are carried out is to have a legally valid will. It lets you:
- Decide who inherits your assets
- Appoint guardians for your children
- Choose your executors
- Leave gifts or donations to specific people or charities
With professional guidance, the process is simple and affordable — and the peace of mind it brings is invaluable.
How Coastal Legacy Can Help
At Coastal Legacy, we make will writing straightforward and stress-free. Our friendly, local team helps people across Hampshire understand their options and prepare documents that truly reflect their wishes.
We take care of every detail, ensuring your will is legally valid, properly witnessed, and stored securely.
Don’t Leave It to Chance
If you don’t have a will, now is the time to act. Protect your loved ones and ensure your estate is handled exactly as you want.
👉 Contact Coastal Legacy today to create your will with the help of a trusted local expert.