Next of Kin

Next of kin refers to a person’s closest living blood relative. The next-of-kin relationship is important in determining inheritance rights if a person dies without a will and has no spouse and/or children. The next of kin may also have responsibilities during and after their relative’s life. For example, the next of kin might need to make medical decisions if the person becomes incapacitated, or take responsibility for their funeral/burial arrangements and financial affairs after their relative dies.