Intestate Succession in Alaska
State-specific overview · Estate & Probate
Alaska prioritizes spouses and descendants, with a unique "augmented estate" concept for spousal claims.
How Alaska treats Intestate Succession
If the deceased leaves a spouse and one child, the spouse receives the first $200,000 plus half the remainder, while the child takes the rest. Alaska's intestacy statute follows the Uniform Probate Code model. The state recognizes an "augmented estate" that may include certain gifts and transfers made during life, giving spouses additional protection. Children and more distant relatives inherit only after spousal and lineal descendant shares are satisfied.
The general definition of Intestate Succession
The legal process of distributing a deceased person's property when they leave no valid will.
If someone dies without a will (or with an invalid will), state law determines who inherits their property. Each state has a set order of priority—usually spouse first, then children, then parents, then siblings. The court appoints an administrator to manage the estate and follow these statutory rules, even if the deceased person's wishes were different.
Read the full Intestate Succession entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Alaska.