Articles & Publications
Inheritance
Estate succession, missed deadlines, inheritance agreements, estate debts, and pension savings.
Inheritance Contract: What It Is and Who Needs It
Will and gift are not the only options in Russia. An inheritance contract keeps you in full ownership and binds the heir to obligations during your lifetime.
Inheritance Contract vs Gift: Why a Gift Deed Is Dangerous
In Russia, gifting property is one of the riskiest moves for the donor: once registered, you lose it forever. An inheritance contract keeps you protected.
Inheritance Contract vs Will in Russia: How to Choose
A will is a letter sent one way. An inheritance contract is a bilateral deal with obligations while you are alive. Four differences and when to use each.
Notary Must Disclose Deceased's Debts
From 24 November 2025, notaries must check and disclose a deceased person's debts when opening an estate file — and notify heirs in writing before they accept.
Russian Pension Savings: Inherited Money You Can Claim
Millions of Russians have pension savings in the Social Fund that pass to heirs. Most families lose the money because they miss the six-month deadline.
Not Knowing About a Death: Inheritance Deadline Still Runs
Two Supreme Court rulings confirm: not knowing about a relative's death is not a valid reason to restore the six-month deadline. What counts as a valid reason.
Inheritance Agreement, Will, or Gift
Three instruments for transferring property to heirs — each with its own risks. An inheritance agreement binds the heir during the testator's lifetime.