Estate Planning for Couples: How to Protect the People You Love
Love Is More Than Romance — It’s Protection
February is a month centered on love, but real love goes beyond flowers and cards. It shows up in preparation, clarity, and making sure the people you care about are protected — no matter what life brings.
Estate planning is one of the most important ways couples can care for one another, yet it’s often delayed because it feels uncomfortable or overwhelming. The truth is: estate planning isn’t about planning for the worst. It’s about creating security and peace of mind for the person you love most.
Married vs. Unmarried Couples: Why Planning Matters
Many couples assume that marriage automatically gives their spouse full legal authority. While marriage does provide some protections, it does not solve everything.
Unmarried couples often face even greater risks. Without estate planning:
Your partner may have no legal authority to make medical decisions
Assets may go to biological relatives instead of your partner
Courts — not you — decide what happens next
Estate planning ensures your wishes are followed, regardless of marital status.
Estate Planning Is More Than Money
When people think of estate planning, they often think only about inheritance. But for couples, some of the most important documents focus on decision-making while you’re alive, including:
Healthcare directives
Powers of attorney
HIPAA authorizations
These documents allow your partner to step in during emergencies, communicate with doctors, and manage finances if you’re unable to do so yourself.
A Common Mistake Couples Make
One of the biggest mistakes couples make is assuming that “we’ve talked about it” is enough.
Verbal conversations don’t hold legal weight. If your wishes aren’t documented properly, loved ones may face confusion, delays, or court involvement — even when your intentions were clear.
Estate planning turns conversations into clear, enforceable plans.
Did You Know? Marriage Doesn’t Automatically Fix Everything
Many people are surprised to learn that:
Outdated beneficiary designations can override a will
Joint ownership doesn’t always work the way people expect
State laws may distribute assets differently than you intended
Estate planning is not a one-size-fits-all process. Personalized planning ensures that everything works together the way you expect.
Estate Planning as an Act of Love
Estate planning isn’t about preparing for death — it’s about caring for the people who will still be here. It’s about reducing stress, avoiding conflict, and leaving your partner with clarity instead of questions.
At Zarda Law, estate planning is education-first and personalized, because your family deserves more than documents — they deserve a thoughtful plan and a meaningful legacy.
Ready to Protect What Matters Most?
If you and your partner have been meaning to start estate planning, February is the perfect time to begin. A simple conversation today can make all the difference tomorrow.
Contact Zarda Law today to help you create your customized plan or get your questions answered today!
Schedule a Legacy Session HERE to discuss your current situation with Lisa and get personalized estate planning recommendations. Let's work together to secure your legacy and protect your loved ones.
This article is a service of Zarda Law, S.C. We do not just draft documents; we ensure you make informed decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. That's why we offer Legacy Planning Session, during which you will get financially organized and make all the best choices for the people you love. You can begin by scheduling a Legacy Planning Session and mention this article to find out how to get this $750 session at no charge.
