Dying without  a will, or dying intestate, means that you have no control over the way your remaining assets (known as the estate) will be split.  There’s a formula.  Firstly, the estate will be split between you and your spouse depending on how you were married.  Then your share will be divided into equal pieces between your spouse and children.  Children under 18 can’t inherit money directly, so that money gets given to the Government’s Guardian Fund until they are 18 (not your spouse).  Enough to make you run and do a will!