Do cohabiting couples need life insurance?
Yes — and arguably more urgently than married couples. Cohabiting partners have no automatic legal right to inherit each other's estate without a will, and no right to pension death benefits unless specifically named. Life insurance is often the most important financial protection a cohabiting couple can have.
Joint vs separate life insurance for cohabiting couples
- Joint policy: One policy covering both partners. Cheaper than two single policies, pays out once on first death, then ends.
- Two single policies: Each partner has their own policy. Pays out twice if both die. More flexible and usually the better option.
For most cohabiting couples, two single policies offer better long-term protection — particularly if you later separate, as each policy continues independently.
Writing life insurance in trust — especially important for cohabitees
Without a will, a cohabiting partner has no automatic right to your estate. Writing your life insurance in trust ensures the payout goes directly to your partner (and/or children) without going through probate — regardless of the contents of your will or the intestacy rules.
How much life insurance do cohabiting couples need?
Consider: your share of joint mortgage or rent, your partner's financial dependence on your income, any children, and any joint debts. Most cohabiting couples with a mortgage and dependants need £150,000–£400,000 each.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — and arguably more than married couples. Unmarried cohabiting partners have very limited legal rights to each other's estate. Life insurance written in trust is the most reliable way to ensure your partner is financially protected.
Two single policies are usually better. They pay out twice (once per death), are more flexible if you separate, and allow each partner to manage their cover independently.
Single policies continue unchanged — you remain covered regardless of the relationship status. Joint policies need to be reviewed and potentially split or cancelled. Contact your insurer if your relationship status changes.