Does Your Spouse Inherit Everything in Manitoba?
Last updated 2026-06 · Manitoba
Manitoba is one of the provinces where a surviving spouse — or qualifying common-law partner — can inherit everything without a will. But that result depends entirely on the family structure, and children from another relationship change it.
When the survivor gets everything
If you die intestate and all your children are also your spouse's or partner's children — or you have no children — the surviving spouse or common-law partner inherits the entire estate.
When the estate is split
If you have a child from another relationship, the survivor no longer takes it all. They receive the greater of $50,000 or one-half of the estate, and the rest is divided among your descendants — a protection for children of a prior relationship.
Common-law partners are included
Manitoba recognizes a common-law partner who either registered the relationship or cohabited for three years (or one year with a child together). A qualifying partner inherits like a married spouse, unlike in Ontario. If you were married, separated but not divorced, and then formed a new common-law relationship, the rules on who counts as "spouse" can get tangled — a will prevents that confusion.
Dependants' relief
Even with a will, Manitoba allows certain dependants to apply for support if the will doesn't adequately provide for them. So leaving someone out isn't always the final word.
How a will helps
A will lets you decide what your spouse or partner receives, protect a blended family on your terms, keep the home intact, and avoid disputes over whether a common-law relationship qualified.
Frequently asked questions
Do common-law partners inherit in Manitoba? Yes — a registered or qualifying common-law partner inherits like a spouse. How much does a surviving spouse get in Manitoba? Everything if all children are shared; otherwise the greater of $50,000 or half, with the rest to descendants. Does a spouse get the house if there's no will in Manitoba? It's part of the estate; the spouse may receive it within their share, but not automatically in a blended family. Are stepchildren entitled to inherit in Manitoba? Not on intestacy unless adopted; a will is needed to provide for them.
Not legal advice. General information about Manitoba law as of 2026. Confirm specifics with a Manitoba estate lawyer.
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