Doesn't my husband/children automatically get everything when I die?

You should not assume that your spouse or civil partner will automatically inherit all your assets. As from 26th July 2023, under the rules of intestacy (death without a will) if you have children, your spouse or civil partner is only entitled to the first £322,000.00. If the estate is worth more than the statutory legacy the position is more complex.

If you die intestate, are married with children and your estate is worth more than £322,000.00, your spouse would, as outlined above, receive the first £322,000.00 and any personal chattels, the amount above £322,000 is then halved between the spouse and the the other half distributed evenly between any children.