Understanding Inheritance Rights: What Happens When a Spouse Dies Without a Will?

In the absence of a will, a spouse does not automatically inherit everything. Assets with beneficiary designations, such as retirement accounts and life insurance, go to the named beneficiaries. Jointly owned assets pass to the other owner. Other assets are distributed according to state law, which varies. In some cases, the surviving spouse may inherit everything, while in others they may have to share with parents or siblings. Social Security's inflation adjustments are factored into retirement benefits starting at age 62, regardless of whether the individual is collecting checks.