⚖️ Inheritance simulator
Find out who inherits, how much each person receives and what costs to expect - based on your situation
⚠️ Important notice
This tool is for informational purposes only and does not replace legal advice. Results are based on current Portuguese legislation (Codigo Civil, Codigo do Imposto do Selo). For complex situations, always consult a lawyer specialising in succession law.
How does this simulator work?
Answer 10-13 questions about the deceased person's family and financial situation. In about 2 minutes, you will receive a full report including: who inherits and in what proportion, estimated costs (habilitation, taxes, registrations), legal deadlines to meet, and recommended next steps with links to detailed guides.
1 - Was the deceased married at the time of death?
Marital status determines whether there is a meacao (division of joint assets) and whether the spouse is an heir.
2 - What was the marriage property regime?
The property regime determines the meacao - the share of joint assets that belongs to the surviving spouse by their own right.
2 - Was the deceased living in a de facto union for more than 2 years?
The surviving member of a de facto union has some rights, but is NOT a legal heir.
3 - Did the deceased have children (or grandchildren of deceased children)?
Descendants are first-class forced heirs (herdeiros legitimarios).
4 - Are the deceased's parents still alive?
In the absence of descendants, ascendants are second-class forced heirs.
5 - Did the deceased have siblings?
Without descendants or ascendants, siblings and collateral relatives may inherit.
6 - Is there a will?
A will can assign the disposable portion to third parties, but cannot prejudice the forced share (legitima) of forced heirs.
7 - Does the will assign assets to third parties outside the immediate family?
If the will prejudices the forced share (legitima), forced heirs can bring a reduction action.
8 - Are there known debts in the estate?
The deceased's debts are paid from the estate before distribution.
9 - Do the debts exceed the value of the assets?
If debts exceed assets, it is essential to consider acceptance under beneficio de inventario or rejection (repudio).
10 - Are all heirs of legal age and legally competent?
The existence of minor or incapacitated heirs requires specific procedures.
11 - What is your relationship to the deceased?
This determines whether you are exempt from Imposto de Selo and the tax cost of the inheritance for you.
12 - Are there real estate properties in the estate?
Real estate involves additional land registry costs and potential IS on the VPT.
📖 Want to learn more?
For a comprehensive guide to inheritance in Portugal, see our Inheritance guide. If you need a checklist of all steps after a death, see the Complete checklist.