Without the right estate planning, your partner could be left out in the cold.
If you’ve got a life partner but no marriage (or civil union or domestic partnership) certificate, estate planning is a must. Without it, neither of you will inherit from each other-and neither of you will have a say in the other’s end-of-life medical care.
If you die without a valid will, state law will dictate where your solely owned property goes after your death, and it won’t go to an unmarried partner. Instead, your closest relatives, including your parents, would inherit. Similarly, only your spouse or someone you’ve appointed in a valid power of attorney are allowed to make medical decisions on your behalf if you’re incapacitated. Fortunately, your attorney can create the legal documents you need to make sure your wishes are met.
