By Soren Hottenstein  Aug. 19, 2025 If you die without a will, the state decides what happens to everything you leave behind: your money, your home, and even your personal belongings. That process, called intestate succession, can lead to bitter family disputes, unexpected outcomes, and a probate process that drags on for months or even years. Your assets might go to the wrong people. What's more, your loved ones might lose time and money, and their relationships might suffer lasting damage. Fortunately, a few simple steps can protect your family and your legacy while preventing unnecessary turmoil. Key Takeaways Without a will, state laws decide who gets your assets. Family conflict is more likely when your intentions aren’t clearly documented. Probate can drag on for months or even years and eat away at your estate’s value. Skipping a will puts generational wealth at risk, especially for women and communities of color. Your assets could ...