Estate Planning for Unmarried Couples: Why It Matters

Love and commitment don’t always come with a marriage license. But in Michigan, that distinction carries more weight than you might expect. Without a legal marriage or a formal estate plan, your partner risks being completely left out when it matters most.

No matter how long you’ve been together or how deeply you’ve built your lives, Michigan law does not automatically protect or recognize unmarried partners when it comes to inheritance, healthcare decisions, or legal rights. This gap can lead to devastating and unnecessary hardships in some of life’s most challenging moments.

What the Law Says (and Doesn’t Say)

If you pass away without a will or estate plan, your assets will be distributed according to state law, rather than according to your personal wishes. Here’s what that means in Michigan:

• Your partner won’t automatically inherit your home or savings. Instead, your estate will go to your closest blood relatives, as outlined by Michigan’s intestacy laws.
• Your partner may be excluded from medical decisions. Hospitals typically turn to the next of kin, such as parents or siblings, if there’s no legal documentation to the contrary.
• Your partner could be unable to manage your affairs. Without a durable power of attorney or healthcare proxy, your partner may be locked out of making important decisions regarding your finances or care.
• Taking action now can ensure your wishes and your loved one’s needs are protected.

Why Planning Matters-No Matter Your Age or Wealth

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy; it’s for anyone who wants to safeguard their rights and protect the people they care about.

For unmarried couples, a simple estate plan should include:

• A will or trust, ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes, not just to blood relatives.
• Durable Power of Attorney, so your partner can manage finances if you’re unable to.
• Healthcare Power of Attorney and HIPAA Authorization, giving your partner the ability to make medical decisions and access critical health information.
• Clear instructions for property ownership, digital assets, and your wishes for funeral arrangements.
• Taking these steps puts you in control and provides security for your partner, no matter what the future holds.

You Deserve Peace of Mind

Your relationship may not follow a legal template, but your estate plan can ensure it’s fully protected. By planning, you’re not just making legal decisions; you're also making informed decisions. You’re preserving trust, love, and autonomy for the person who matters most.

Let’s Make Sure Your Partner Is Protected

We work with couples across Michigan and beyond who want to protect each other, no matter what the law assumes about their relationship.