The intestacy rules changed on 1st October 2014. If you do not make a will your estate (or “stuff”) will be distributed in accordance with these intestacy rules. Intestacy does not recognise co-habitees or common law partners so MAKE A WILL!
| Deceased Dies Leaving | Rules up to 30th September 2014 | Rules Effective 1st October 2014 |
|---|---|---|
| A spouse and children | Spouse receives: Statutory legacy of £250,000 Personal chattels Life interest in half residue | Spouse receives: Statutory legacy of £250,000 (index linked) Personal chattels Entitlement to half estate outright Children entitles to remaining half of residuary estate at 18 |
| A spouse but no surviving children | Spouse receives: Statutory legacy of £450,000 Personal chattels Half of residue Parents receive other half of residue equally (or siblings if no surviving parents) | Spouse receives the whole estate Parents/ siblings receive noting |