Dying without a Will in California

If you die without a will (also referred to as intestate), California law will determine the beneficiaries of your estate. Contrary to popular myth, if you die without a will, everything does not automatically go to the state.
 
 If you are married or have established a registered domestic partnership, your spouse or domestic partner will receive all of your community property. Your spouse or domestic partner also will receive part of your separate property, and the rest of your separate property will be distributed to your children or grandchildren, parents, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews or other close relatives.
 
 If you are not married or in a registered domestic partnership, your assets will be distributed to your children or grandchildren, if you have any - or to your parents, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews or other relatives.
 
 If your spouse or domestic partner died before you, his or her relatives may also be entitled to some or all of your estate. Friends, a non-registered domestic partner or your favorite charities will receive nothing if you die without a will.
 
 The State of California is the beneficiary of your estate if you die intestate and you (and your deceased spouse or domestic partner) have no living relatives. To get started on your California will, please go here.