BJ Mckenna's Blog /Co-habiting Couples – make sure you have a Will in place!

Co-habiting Couples – make sure you have a Will in place!

Co-habiting couples – make sure you have a Will in place!

There are over six million unmarried couples cohabiting in the UK.

A recent research study showed that more than one third of cohabiting couples were unsure about what rights they would have if their partner passed away without leaving a Will.

Even more worryingly one in ten cohabiting couples wrongly believed that they would be automatically entitled to inherit their partner’s share of any property they lived in together.

With co-habiting becoming more common this misunderstanding could lead to a nasty surprise for many people.

When someone dies without leaving a Will their estate is dealt with in accordance with the rules of intestacy. Currently these rules do not provide for co-habiting partners. If you are not married to your partner they will not receive anything on your death.

If you want to provide for your partner, whether by leaving them your property outright or just the right to live there for a period time while they make other arrangements, you need to make sure you have a valid Will.

Your Will does not only deal with your property but all of your assets. If you and your partner have built a home together there could be upsetting disagreements with your family regarding who owns certain assets. If your partner relies on you to contribute to the household bills and mortgage they could find themselves in difficulty if they don’t have access to your finances after your death.

Don’t leave it too late. Make a Will to provide for what happens after you’ve gone.

Tel: 0161 432 4325 Email: michaela@bjmckenna.co.uk

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Specialists in Wills & Probate in Stockport, South Manchester & North Cheshire.

By entrusting BJ McKenna and Co with your matter, we assume the role of Personal Representative, handling all associated duties on your behalf. You can rest assured that a skilled professional will safeguard your best interests throughout the process.

​If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

By entrusting BJ McKenna and Co with your matter, we assume the role of Personal Representative, handling all associated duties on your behalf. You can rest assured that a skilled professional will safeguard your best interests throughout the process.

​If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

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