Cohabitees misunderstand inheritance rights

clock

The majority of cohabiting couples could be leaving their partner unprotected when they die by not leaving a will, as 55% falsely believe the concept of ‘common law marriage' provides the same rights as married couples.

Research carried out by Advicenow as part of the organisation’s LivingTogether campaign, reveals cohabiting couples could be in serious trouble if they don’t prepare for the future, providing a possible business opportunity for advisers. The findings show 60% of couples haven’t made a will, yet it points out 41% of those without a will say they would want the majority of their property and assets to pass to their partner if they died, when in reality, their estate would pass automatically to their next of kin, and their partner could be left with nothing Meanwhile more men, 47%, than wo...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Investment

PA360: It is 'impossible' to pick out the best asset class every year

PA360: It is 'impossible' to pick out the best asset class every year

‘The outsourced route is one that a lot of advisers are now taking’

Hope Coumbe
clock 26 April 2024 • 2 min read
PA360: Framing of information to investors 'extremely pervasive'

PA360: Framing of information to investors 'extremely pervasive'

Consumer Duty states consumer biases must not be exploited

Jenna Brown
clock 25 April 2024 • 1 min read
Schroders chief executive Peter Harrison to retire in 2025

Schroders chief executive Peter Harrison to retire in 2025

Harrison began his career at Schroders as a graduate in 1988

Cristian Angeloni
clock 24 April 2024 • 2 min read