There is a lot to be said for marital bliss and also for the unmarried state. Single people often say they prefer their freedom, have never met the right person, or simply that marriage is not for them.
Some recent studies show that for adults over the age of 25 roughly one in five never married and presumably had no intention of tying the knot. However, in 1960 only one in ten of the same age group was likely to remain unmarried. That is roughly a double jump.
This trend of remaining single may simply be a matter of economics, younger adults just do not have enough money to start a household and have kids. Others point to a freer lifestyle and more choices for ‘singles’ than prior generations. Another aspect is that younger adults can seek very comfortable live-in partnerships without the marriage contract. Add to that the fact that people have more job changes and change of domiciles. Moving around does often hinder forming a ‘binding’ union with someone. Others enjoy a ‘commuting’ lifestyle…a long range relationship and are comfortable in a ‘long distance’ relationship.
Whatever the statistics and the personal reasons, ‘singles’ is a category that has seen a significant growth. Which leads me to the point of the article, which is - are there special issues for the ‘never to marry’. Why should unmarried people care what happens to their wealth? And how can they plan, as they age, for the transition of their assets to the people they love?
Estate planning is not very different for that group, however, there is a slight twist. If an unmarried person dies without a definite ‘plan’ then the state has a definite plan for them. And it might not be what they want to happen. Most states have strict rules about inheritance. Many have the assets of an unmarried person go to their ‘next of kin’ for example, a parent or sibling. It can be that simple. Without a will, the state decides based on that state’s rigid rules.
But remember, as a single person ages, so do their siblings and parents. What happens if no close relative is still living?
An unmarried person has the right to have their assets disposed of according to their precise wishes and that is why for this group it is truly imperative to have in place clear and precise directives. Not only directives about who gets what, but also who will be able to make decisions about their health care if they become disabled and not able to make their own decisions.
The disability may be temporary or permanent, but in any case it is important to recognize that SOMEONE will be making that healthcare decision and it is advisable to have that person be someone you trust and have confidence that they will carry out your wishes, be they medical decisions, or financial decisions.
If you are single and never married, then consider having a meeting with an attorney to explore your options and put your documents in place…before you need them.
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