What Happens If You Die Without a Will by State
Every US state has an intestacy statute that decides who inherits when there's no will. The rules vary substantially — particularly for blended families and surviving spouses. Pick your state for the specifics.
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- Louisiana LA View →
- Maine ME View →
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- Minnesota MN View →
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- Montana MT View →
- Nebraska NE View →
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- New Hampshire NH View →
- New Jersey NJ View →
- New Mexico NM View →
- North Dakota ND View →
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- Oregon OR View →
- Rhode Island RI View →
- South Carolina SC View →
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- Tennessee TN View →
- Utah UT View →
- Vermont VT View →
- Virginia VA View →
- Washington WA View →
- West Virginia WV View →
- Wisconsin WI View →
- Wyoming WY View →
For most families, intestacy is a worse outcome than even a basic will. Intestacy can't leave anything to an unmarried partner, a step-child you didn't adopt, a friend, or a charity — and it can't name a guardian for your minor children. The fix is a basic will, which costs $50-$1,500 and takes a couple of hours of decisions.
Want to understand wills first?
- Do I Need a Will? — the honest decision
- How to Write a Will (and What Makes It Valid)
- How Much Does a Will Cost with a Lawyer?
- Estate Planning Checklist
Educational information only — not legal advice. Always confirm current statutes and figures with a licensed attorney in your state.