The United States Census Bureau conducts surveys that can be very useful to those who are interested in the field of elder law. Their American Community Surveys for 2005-2007 and 2008-2010 revealed an interesting trend.
Apparently more and more senior citizens who are in committed live-in relationships are choosing to remain unmarried. Between the two time periods the number of people who are at least 60 years old who are living with someone increased by 14% to 1,206,661.
One reason why many elder Americans may decide not to get married is because of the fact that pension benefits can be lost, and if you get remarried before the age of 60 Social Security survivor’s benefits can be forfeited.
There is also the matter of merging financial assets. This can be complicated and sensitive on a number of different levels.
Perhaps the biggest concern that people have is the future well-being of their children from previous relationships. If you were to simply allow all property to become community property you can’t be certain that your children will be provided for by your surviving spouse if you were to pass away first.
Since Medicaid eligibility is determined by financial parameters getting married could have negative implications for some.
If you are trying to sort through the facts as a senior citizen who is in a relationship the best way to proceed would be to discuss everything with a licensed and experienced Hartford elder law attorney. Your lawyer will answer all your questions, evaluate your unique circumstances, and provide you with the appropriate advice.
Mr. Horowitz was awarded his Juris Doctor degree with honors from the University of Connecticut School of Law. While attending law school, Mr. Horowitz received the American Jurisprudence Award in Legal Ethics and the Nathan Burkan Award.
After graduation from law school, Mr. Horowitz continued his legal education at New York University School of Law where he received a Post Doctorate Law Degree in Taxation. He has also recently received a national achievement award.
Mr. Horowitz is admitted to practice before all the state courts in the State of Connecticut and the United States District Court.
Mr. Horowitz was selected for Super Lawyers in 2021.
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