When a close relative passes away, there’s a lot to consider, and questions about inheritance can often be complicated. Inheritance consists of the assets and debts left behind by a deceased person. In an inheritance process in Sweden, the assets are distributed according to how the deceased wished for them to be divided, and based on existing laws.

The process

Inventory of estate
After some deceases, an inventory of the estate has to be made. You can do this on your own, or you can seek assistance from a lawyer. The inventory lists the deceased’s assets and debts. Once completed, the inventory has to be submitted to the Swedish Tax Agency within four months of the death.

Will
If the deceased left a will, the inheritance will be divided accordingly. However, it’s important to note that the will has to be in writing and has to meet certain legal requirements to be valid.

Order of inheritance
If there is no will, the Swedish order of inheritance governs how the estate will be divided. The heirs are grouped into different classes, with the first class having priority. Then comes the second class, followed by the third class, and so on.

1. First class: Children and grandchildren.
2. Second class: Parents, siblings and nieces/nephews.
3. Third class: Grandparents and their children (but not cousins).

Distribution of an estate
Once the inventory is complete and any debts are paid, the process of dividing the inheritance can begin. This is called distribution of an estate and involves transferring the various assets to the rightful heirs.

What we help with in inheritance matters

Legal Consultation
We help you understand how the process works and what rights and obligations you have as a potential heir. We also provide advice on how to handle a will or the order of inheritance.

Inventory of estate
We help you create an inventory of the estate and submit it to the Swedish Tax Agency on time.

Dividing the inheritance
We assist you in dividing the inheritance in a fair and correct manner so all heirs receive their rightful share according to the law and/or any existing will.

FAQ about inheritance

What happens if there is no will?
If no will exists, everything will be divided according to the Swedish order of inheritance. The order of inheritance divides the heirs into different classes depending on their relationship to the deceased.

How long does the inheritance process take?
The time it takes to complete the process can vary depending on how complicated the estate is and whether there are disputes between the heirs. However, an inventory of the estate has to be completed within four months of the death.

Can I contest a will?
Yes, you can if you believe that the will violates any laws. You can also contest it if you suspect that the will was created under inappropriate circumstances. We help you understand the inheritance process and your options.