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 ...

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

Consultancy launches to provide IFAs with 'robust' investment processes

Consultancy launches to provide IFAs with 'robust' investment processes

Sheridan Admans launches Infundly

Isabel Baxter
clock 06 November 2025 • 1 min read
Inflation protection not front of mind for financial advisers

Inflation protection not front of mind for financial advisers

Titan Square Mile report suggests

Jen Frost
clock 04 November 2025 • 3 min read
Trick or treat? The UK and global economy face their Halloween ghosts

Trick or treat? The UK and global economy face their Halloween ghosts

‘Wealth managers and market professionals are tiptoeing past economic graveyards’

Stephen Jones
clock 31 October 2025 • 4 min read