This article is general education, not individual financial, insurance, legal, or tax advice. Your needs and applicable rules may differ.
Intestacy is not a personal plan
When someone dies without a valid will, state intestacy laws generally determine who receives probate assets. Those rules may not match family intentions.
The exact outcome depends on residence, family structure, and applicable law.
Not everything follows the will
Jointly titled assets and accounts with valid beneficiary designations may transfer outside probate. A will generally does not override those arrangements.
Review ownership and beneficiary forms account by account.
Plan with counsel
An estate attorney can explain local rules, draft a will, address guardianship nominations, and coordinate other documents.
Keep originals accessible to the appropriate people and revisit after major life events.
Explore the full guide
The Family Estate Planning Guide
