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What if there’s no will?

Short answer

The court appoints an administrator, and state law decides who inherits, usually close family in a set order.

Rules differ by state. This is general information, not legal or professional advice.

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Official sources

National Center for State Courtsncsc.org
IRS: filing for a deceased personirs.gov
FTC consumer advice: debts and deceased relativesconsumer.ftc.gov