What Happens if you Die Without a Will in Wyoming?
Let’s be honest, thinking about what happens when you die isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time. In fact, it’s a bit morbid. But here’s the thing: not thinking about it doesn’t make the problem go away. If you don’t make a plan, the State of Wyoming has one for you, and spoiler alert: it might not be what you’d choose.
Whether you're just getting started adulting or you’ve got a house, kids, and a full schedule, having an estate plan in place is one of the most empowering things you can do for yourself and your family.
What Does It Mean to Die “Intestate”?
Dying without a will is called dying intestate. In Wyoming, that means the state uses a default set of rules (called intestate succession laws) to decide:
Who inherits your stuff
Who is in charge of wrapping up your affairs
What happens if you leave behind kids, real estate, or bank accounts
This process takes time, costs money, and sometimes creates chaos, especially if there are blended families, disagreements, or unclear ownership of assets.
So, What Actually Happens Without a Will?
Let’s break it down. If you die without a will in Wyoming:
Your spouse might not get everything. If you have children from a prior relationship, your spouse only gets half.
Your kids may get lump sums at age 18. Even if they’re not ready to manage money, the court has no say once they hit adulthood.
Your family could fight in probate court. Without clear directions, even families with the best intentions can end up in conflict.
A judge picks who’s in charge. Someone you wouldn’t have chosen could end up managing your affairs.
No one can act until the court says so. That means bank accounts, real estate, and even funeral decisions could be delayed.
And if you have minor children and haven’t named guardians? The court will decide who raises them, based on what it thinks is best.
Why a Full Estate Plan Matters.
A will lets you decide what happens to your assets, who’s in charge, and who steps in for your kids. A good estate plan goes further and includes:
Powers of Attorney for finances and healthcare
Living Will to express your medical wishes
Trusts (when appropriate) to simplify or avoid probate, and potentially help with taxes
Clear instructions that reduce stress and confusion for your loved ones
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy; it’s for anyone who wants to avoid legal messes and protect the people they care about.
Ready to Make a Plan?
Most of my clients come in feeling a little overwhelmed and confused; but they leave feeling relieved. If you’ve been putting this off, you’re not alone. But a simple estate plan can often be done in just a few hours or over the course of a couple of weeks, and give you peace of mind for years to come.
Schedule a free consultation to get started. Let’s make sure your wishes, not Wyoming’s default rules, guide what happens next.
