Protecting Your Marriage & Shared Assets: A Guide for LGBTQ+ Couples
Eric Subido
In times of social and political uncertainty, it’s natural to feel concerned about your rights—especially when it comes to marriage, healthcare, and shared assets. For LGBTQ+ couples, protecting what you’ve built together is not just a legal process—it’s an act of love, security, and empowerment.
At Intent Clinical, we believe that proactive planning helps couples feel grounded and confident about their future. Whether you’re newly married or celebrating years together, the following best practices can help you safeguard your partnership.
1. Strengthen Your Legal Protections
Start by making sure your legal documents reflect your relationship accurately and protect both partners:
- Marriage documentation: Keep certified copies of your marriage certificate, and store digital backups securely.
- Wills & trusts: Ensure your partner is listed as a primary beneficiary.
- Powers of attorney: Designate healthcare and financial powers of attorney so your partner can make key decisions if needed.
- Legal support: Consider consulting an attorney experienced in LGBTQ+ family law to help draft or review important documents.
2. Protect Your Finances & Shared Assets
Financial planning is about clarity and mutual trust.
- Review joint ownership: Double-check bank accounts, property titles, and investments to confirm both partners are properly listed.
- Update beneficiaries: Review all insurance policies and retirement plans to make sure your spouse or partner is included.
- Work with fiduciary professionals: Seek a fee-only Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or other fiduciary advisor for transparent financial guidance.
- Build strong money habits: A financial coach can help with budgeting, debt reduction, and setting goals that align with your shared values.
3. Plan for Healthcare & Family Needs
Health and family planning decisions are deeply personal—make sure your wishes are clear and legally supported.
- Healthcare proxy & living will: Confirm that your partner is legally able to make medical decisions for you.
- Health coverage: Review your insurance policies to ensure both partners have adequate coverage.
- Parental rights: For families with children, keep custody, guardianship, and adoption documents current.
4. Safeguard Your Identity & Digital Privacy
Personal and digital security matter more than ever.
- Identity records: Update your name and marital status on all government IDs, social security, and financial accounts.
- Digital safety: Keep shared passwords and accounts secure, with documented access plans if one partner is unavailable.
5. Build Your Network of Support
Navigating life’s complexities is easier with community and care.
- Join local or online LGBTQ+ organizations: These networks often provide referrals to legal and financial professionals who understand your needs.
- Seek professional coaching or counseling: Working with an experienced coach or therapist can help couples communicate, plan, and manage change together.
- Stay connected: Social support from peers, family, and community can reduce stress and strengthen resilience.
6. Quick Action Checklist
- Gather and securely store your marriage certificate.
- Review and update joint financial and property documents.
- Update wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations.
- Confirm healthcare proxies and living wills.
- Organize key legal and financial records in one place.
- Connect with trusted professionals for legal, financial, and emotional support.
Protecting your relationship and shared assets isn’t just about documents—it’s about creating a foundation of trust, clarity, and care. Taking time to organize your legal, financial, and healthcare plans allows you and your partner to focus on what truly matters: living fully and authentically together.
By approaching these steps as shared acts of responsibility and love, you strengthen both your practical security and your emotional connection—no matter what challenges arise.
