The Problem
Around 54 per cent of UK adults do not have a valid will. When someone dies without one, the intestacy rules decide who inherits — and the outcome rarely matches what the deceased would have wanted.
Who Gets What Under Intestacy
If you are married with children, your spouse receives personal possessions, the first £322,000, and half the remainder. Your children share the other half. If you are unmarried, your partner receives nothing — regardless of how long you have lived together.
Stepchildren, close friends, and charities are entirely excluded. If no qualifying relatives can be found, the estate passes to the Crown.
The Biggest Gaps
- Unmarried partners have no automatic inheritance rights
- Stepchildren are not recognised unless legally adopted
- Children inherit at 18 with no option to delay
- No guardians can be appointed without a will
- Business shares may pass to people with no connection to the company
The Simple Fix
A properly drafted will lets you choose who inherits, appoint guardians, create trusts, and protect your family from unnecessary tax and conflict. It should be reviewed every three to five years or after any major life change.
The intestacy rules will not adapt to your family. Your will can.
Contact The Legacy Wills Company to make sure your estate passes the way you intend.