What happens when someone dies without a will in West Virginia?

If you die without a will in West Virginia, your assets will go to your closest relatives under state “intestate succession” laws.

Who is considered next of kin when someone dies?

A person’s next of kin is their closest living blood relative, including spouses and adopted family members. The designation as next of kin is important in the context of intestate succession, as a decedent’s next of kin is prioritized in receiving inheritance from the decedent’s estate.

Can next of kin access bank account?

Once a Grant of Probate has been awarded, the executor or administrator will be able to take this document to any banks where the person who has died held an account. They will then be given permission to withdraw any money from the accounts and distribute it as per instructions in the Will.

Who inherits if no will in WV?

If only one parent is living, that parent will inherit the entire estate. If no parents are living, the person’s siblings or their descendants will inherit the estate. And finally, if no relatives are found, the estate property will become the property of the state of West Virginia.

Are handwritten wills legal in West Virginia?

West Virginia generally understands a holographic will to be a handwritten will that is signed by the testator, but is not witnessed. Holographic wills are usually valid in West Virginia if the dispositive provisions of the will are wholly in the testator’s handwriting. (W.

What is needed for deceased bank account?

Your valid ID, such as a state-issued driver’s license or ID card, U.S. passport, or military ID. Proof of death, such as certified copies of the death certificate. Documentation about the account and its owner, including the deceased’s full legal name, Social Security number, and the bank account number.

Who is next of kin in WV?

The term “next of kin” in West Virginia is used synonymously with the term “heirs,” which means “persons, including the surviving spouse and the state, who are entitled under the statutes of intestate succession to the property of a decedent.” West Virginia Code § 42-1-1(16).