Incomplete inheritance - what property is not passed on to heirs.

Ukrainians often perceive inheritance as real estate or valuables that are passed down from a deceased relative. However, it is important to remember that along with the property, heirs may also inherit debts. Furthermore, not everything can be inherited - some rights and obligations do not transfer.

What is not subject to inheritance in Ukraine

According to Article 1219 of the Civil Code of Ukraine, there is a list of rights and obligations that do not pass on to heirs. Among them:

• Compensation for harm to health - has a personal nature and does not transfer to others.
• Membership in organizations or associations - automatically ceases after the person's death.
• Personal non-property rights - such as honor, dignity, or personal inviolability, cannot be subject to inheritance.
• Some debts or loans - according to Article 608 of the Civil Code, certain obligations terminate upon the death of the debtor.
• The right to social payments - including alimony, pensions, and aid, which were designated only for a specific person.

In a comment to Novyny.LIVE, managing partner of the law firm VIDAR Stanislav Boris added that weapons or military equipment, including tanks or other equipment used in combat, are not subject to inheritance.

'Generally, everything allowed in Ukraine can, in principle, be passed down as inheritance. In this regard, the legislation has not changed,' the lawyer noted.

Who may be deprived of inheritance in 2025

Certain individuals may be completely deprived of the right to inheritance. This is provided for by Article 1224 of the Civil Code of Ukraine. In particular:

• Those whose marriage to the deceased was declared invalid.
• Individuals who influenced the alteration or drafting of the will through deception or pressure.
• Relatives who refused to care for the testator during their illness.
• Parents deprived of parental rights (if not restored before the child’s death).
• Individuals who committed a crime against the testator or other heirs. Exception - if such an heir is mentioned in the will.

Furthermore, a court may deprive of inheritance those who evaded the maintenance of the testator or attempted to obtain a mandatory share illegally.

Previously, we wrote that to formalize inheritance after the death of a relative, one must necessarily contact a notary. This should be done within six months from the date of the testator's death. Within the specified timeframe, it is necessary to submit an application for the acceptance of inheritance or for refusal from it.

We also explained that if a husband or wife dies and no will is left, the inherited property is distributed among relatives according to the current legislation. In Ukraine, there is a system of inheritance by lines - there are five in total.

This article provides comprehensive information about what is not subject to inheritance in Ukraine and who may be deprived of the right to inheritance. Some rights and obligations that do not transfer upon inheritance, as well as cases of complete deprivation of inheritance, are important for every citizen to know in order to avoid troubles in the future. It is also emphasized the importance of consulting a notary for formalizing inheritance after the death of a relative and the deadlines for submitting the application for inheritance or refusal.