What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Alaska?

The surviving spouse's share in Alaska depends on family structure.AS § 13.12.102Verified Jul 15, 2026 With no children: If no parent survives: entire estate. If parent survives: first $200,000 plus 3/4 of the remaining estate.. With shared children: If spouse has no other descendants: entire estate. If spouse has other descendants: first $150,000 plus half of the remaining estate.. When children from a prior relationship survive: First $100,000 plus half of the remaining estate.

Alaska uses the "per capita at each generation" distribution method.AS § 13.12.106Verified Jul 15, 2026 Under this method, surviving descendants at each generational level share equally, with deceased members' shares pooled and redistributed at the next level. Per capita at each generation

Alaska requires an heir to survive the decedent by 120 hours to inherit.AS § 13.12.102Verified Jul 15, 2026 If an heir dies within this period, they are treated as having predeceased the decedent, and their share passes to the next eligible heirs.

Under Alaska intestacy law, stepchildren and unmarried partners do not inherit unless legally adopted or otherwise recognized by statute.AS § 13.12.102Verified Jul 15, 2026 Only legally recognized spouses and blood or adopted relatives are included in the intestate succession order. A will or trust is the only way to provide for stepchildren or unmarried partners. The Alaska will signing requirements page outlines what is needed to execute a valid will.

Probate costs in Alaska depend on estate size and complexity. Estates valued at $150,000 or less may qualify for a simplified procedure that avoids formal probate. For larger estates, fees include court costs, attorney fees, and executor compensation. Use the Alaska probate cost calculator for a detailed estimate.