What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Connecticut?
Use our free intestacy calculator to see exactly who inherits your estate and how much they get under your state’s intestate succession laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Connecticut intestacy laws determine who inherits when there is no will.Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-437Verified May 30, 2026 Connecticut follows separate property rules. The surviving spouse's share depends on whether children survive and their relationship to the spouse. The order of priority is: surviving spouse, children, parents, siblings, then more distant relatives.
The surviving spouse's share in Connecticut depends on family structure.Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-437Verified May 30, 2026 With no children: If no parent survives: entire estate. If parent survives: first $100,000 plus 3/4 of the remaining estate.. With shared children: First $100,000 plus half of the remaining estate (when all children are also children of surviving spouse). When children from a prior relationship survive: Half of the estate.
Connecticut uses the "per stirpes" distribution method.Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-438Verified May 30, 2026 Under this method, each branch of the family receives an equal share, and a deceased child's portion passes to their own descendants. Per stirpes
Under Connecticut intestacy law, stepchildren and unmarried partners do not inherit unless legally adopted or otherwise recognized by statute.Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-437Verified May 30, 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 Connecticut will signing requirements page outlines what is needed to execute a valid will.
Probate costs in Connecticut depend on estate size and complexity. Estates valued at $40,000 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 Connecticut probate cost calculator for a detailed estimate.
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Connecticut Estate Planning Resources
In-depth guides covering Connecticut probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.
