Short answer
An unmarried partner may not receive the rights a spouse would receive by default. A coordinated plan can address inheritance, housing, health and financial decision-making, shared property, beneficiary designations, and who handles the estate.
Do not rely on relationship status alone
Document who should inherit and who may act during incapacity. A will, trust, power of attorney, and advance directive address different rights and should be reviewed together.
Questions to resolve in writing
Specific instructions are especially valuable when family expectations differ.
- May a partner remain in the home?
- Who pays carrying costs?
- Who receives personal property?
- Who makes health and financial decisions?
- How are shared debts and accounts handled?