- A separated spouse without fault keeps the same inheritance rights as a non-separated spouse (art. 548 c.c.).
- If the separation is with fault assigned to them, they are entitled only to a lifetime allowance, and only if they were already receiving maintenance.
- With divorce, inheritance rights end, but an allowance charged to the estate may remain in certain cases (art. 9-bis of Law 898/1970).
Published on October 12, 2026.
Separated: an heir as before
Separation does not dissolve the marriage. A separated spouse, without fault, is still a statutory heir and a forced heir (legittimario): they are entitled to their share even if the deceased made a will in favour of others. If the separation was attributed to their fault, they are entitled only to a lifetime allowance, if at the time of death they were receiving maintenance.
Next question: And after divorce, is the ex still entitled to the survivor’s pension and the severance pay (TFR)? Read Divorced spouse: survivor’s pension and share of the TFR.
Divorced: no share, but perhaps an allowance
After divorce the ex is no longer an heir. If they were receiving the divorce allowance, they may request a periodic allowance charged to the estate if they are in a state of need, within the limits set by the divorce law. They may also have rights to the survivor’s pension and to the TFR, which you will find in the dedicated guide.
The will
Anyone who is separated and wants to leave more to their children or to a new partner must reckon with the spouse’s reserved share. It cannot be cancelled by a will. For this reason it is advisable to settle matters through divorce or clear agreements, and not only through last wishes.
A frequent case
A frequent case described in general terms: names, places and details do not refer to real persons or files.
A man separated for eight years, but not divorced, makes a will in favour of his children. On his death the separated wife claims her share. If the separation was not attributed to her fault, the law recognises her reserved share, and the will may be reduced.
The best solution for you
- If you are separated and want to leave assets to your children: it is usually worth considering divorce, because only with divorce does the spouse lose the status of heir.
- If you are the separated spouse: check whether fault has been assigned to you and what assets there are; the time limits for taking action are precise.
- If you are divorced and receive the allowance: check your rights to the survivor’s pension, the TFR and the allowance charged to the estate.
What to do right away: Gather the separation or divorce judgment and the will (if there is one) and take everything to a lawyer. No route guarantees an outcome.
How Avv. Fiorentino can assist you
- He tells you what is due to the separated spouse or to the ex in your case.
- He assesses with you whether to divorce or to arrange the will.
- He assists you in the action for reduction or in your defence.
Frequently asked questions
Can I disinherit a separated spouse?
No, the spouse’s reserved share cannot be cancelled, except in cases of fault or other cases provided by law.
Does a divorced spouse inherit?
No, they are no longer an heir, but they may be entitled to the survivor’s pension or to an allowance charged to the estate.
Does this also apply to cohabitants?
No: cohabitants have other rights (Law 76/2016).
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Read also
Divorced spouse: survivor’s pension and share of the TFR
Separation with fault: when it is granted and what consequences it has
Sources: Normattiva, Court of Cassation. Author: Avv. Renato Giuseppe Fiorentino, Naples Bar. Informational text, it does not replace an opinion on your case.
Main page for this subject: Separation and divorce in Naples: all the guides and how to contact the Firm →
(Read also): Legal guides from Studio Legale Fiorentino · Inherited holiday home in Capri: who can use it and who pays the expenses · Inheritance tax return: deadlines, exemptions and taxes
Translated from the Italian original; updated on October 18, 2026.
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