Contract of inheritance

In addition to drawing up a will, there are also cases in which it is better to conclude an inheritance contract. You can also determine the transfer of your assets in an inheritance contract. The difference to a will is that in an inheritance contract you enter into a commitment to the other party. Normally, you can only release yourself from this obligation if you conclude a termination agreement with the contractual partner of the inheritance contract.

Inheritance contracts are often concluded in non-marital partnerships. As these persons, unlike in marriage or registered civil partnerships, have no statutory right of inheritance, the survivors can be given a secure legal position in this way.

Often the purpose of the contract is also to oblige the contractual partner to provide for the deceased until the end of his or her life by appointing an heir. The contracting parties do not need to be married, related by blood or marriage. The parties can consist of several people on both sides. Other common aspects of concluding an inheritance contract are of an entrepreneurial nature.

The formal requirements for inheritance contracts are strict. For example, an inheritance contract can only be concluded before a notary. You should therefore seek advice from a notary if you are considering this option.