Since 31 December 2019, opposite-sex couples have been able to enter into civil partnerships (CP) in England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to follow suit soon.
If you enter into a CP, any Will made previously is automatically void and your estate would pass under the state's intestacy rules. This can lead to unwelcome results! Careful thought should go into your new Will, as being in a CP will allow you to benefit from certain Inheritance Tax (IHT) exemptions not previously available to you as an unmarried couple. These Wills can be worded to allow them to be made before the event, in order to simplify life and provide maximum protection.
Some married couples may, on principle, want to dissolve their marriage and enter into a CP. These couples need to take particular care over the timing of new Wills.
If you would like help with the preparation of a new Will to take these tax advantages into account, please contact one of our team below.
- Carolyn Bagley on 01908 247015 or click here to email Carolyn.
- Francesca Rossi on 020 7400 5037 or click here to email Francesca.
- Kerri Woodrow on 01604 463350 or click here to email Kerri.
- Elizabeth Herbert on 01223 447495 or click here to email Elizabeth.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.