If you die without a will, your assets will be distributed according to the laws of your state, known as intestacy laws.

Julia Kagan is a financial/consumer journalist and former senior editor, personal finance, of Investopedia. Marguerita is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor ...

Intestacy laws step in immediately when someone dies without clear instructions. These laws, which vary by state, decide who gets what from bank accounts, property, and personal items. It can lead to ...