Dear Liz: We need help knowing what to do regarding leaving our home and money to my unmarried daughter. She has had a boyfriend for over 15 years. How can we protect her inheritance so he can’t claim half?
Answer: Inheritances are considered separate property. So her inheritance could be considered hers alone even if your daughter marries this guy and lives in a community property state where other income and assets accumulated during the marriage would be considered joint property.
She might have to be careful not to commingle funds, however. A partner who contributes toward a mortgage on a house might have a claim on the property, for example.
Please talk to an estate planning attorney who can assess the situation and give you — and your daughter — personalized advice.