Partners in Life and in Death

Partners, whether same sex or not, usually intend to take care of one another during life and at death.  As more and more states are passing same-sex marriage laws, it is important for couples to make sure estate planning documents are in place.  This article, out of New York, emphasizes the importance of couples to put the proper papers in place so the survivor will inherit pensions, retirement accounts and other assets.  While the news focuses on same-sex couples, the fact is also true for male/female couples who are not legally married.

Estate planning is about taking control.  Set up an appointment to meet with an attorney in your state to review powers of attorney, beneficiary forms, and wills.  Being a partner or married may not create the automatic inheritance you think it will.