When you get married, you expect a lifetime of love, laughter and building a future together. But for many parents with children from a previous relationship, there’s also a hidden worry: what happens if something happens to you? Will your child always be protected?
One listener shared a powerful dilemma on The Vault:
“I don’t want my husband’s new partner to get anything…(except I’m happily married with no reason to end my marriage). My biggest fear is that if I pass away, my daughter could be left with nothing.”
It might sound like an overthinking spiral (we’re imagining the “evil stepmother” sweeping in), but it’s a very real concern for blended families. The truth is, once you get married, any will you had before is no longer valid. Without a new one in place, your wishes for your child, including what assets should eventually go to them, may not be followed.
So how can you make sure your children are taken care of?
Why this matters
When children aren’t biologically related to your new partner, inheritance law can get complicated. If you don’t plan ahead, there’s a risk that everything passes to your spouse. And if they later remarry, your child may end up with nothing.
That’s why it’s so important to review your will, and add extra protection if you need it.
Wills and trusts: protecting your child’s future
Octopus Legacy shared some clear options for families in this situation:
- Write a will with a trust. A trust sets aside money or assets to be looked after by a trustee (someone you trust) for your child.
- Life Interest Trust (Property Protection Trust). This can keep your whole estate (or just the family home) safe for your child, while still allowing your spouse to benefit from it or live in the property. If they remarry, your share can automatically pass to your child.
- Flexible Life Interest Trust. This allows your spouse to be supported during their lifetime, but guarantees that ultimately your assets go to your child.
- Leave assets outright. If your child is over 18, they can receive assets directly. If under 18, a trustee can look after them until they’re old enough.
One important note: a spouse could still make a claim against the estate if they feel inadequate provision has been made. That’s why it’s worth taking proper advice and keeping things balanced.
March is Free Wills Month, and until March 31st, Octopus Legacy* has partnered with charities across the UK so you can get a simple will for free, or a will with a trust at a discounted rate, saving you up to £150.
Why life insurance can help
A will sets the legal framework, but life insurance adds a clean and simple layer of protection. For example:
- Your child could be the beneficiary of one policy, ensuring they receive a payout immediately.
- Your partner could have another policy that supports the family home or shared expenses.
This way, your child is financially secure, and your spouse isn’t left out in the cold.
Have the conversation
These conversations can feel awkward, but they’re so important. The key is making it clear:
“This isn’t about not trusting you, it’s about protecting my child’s future.”
Marriage is about building a life together, and part of that is making sure everyone you love is secure, no matter what happens.
Key takeaway
If you’ve remarried or blended families, don’t leave it to chance. Write a will, explore trust options, and consider life insurance to give your child the protection they deserve. A little planning now can prevent a lot of heartache later.
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Financielle is an Introducer Appointed Representative of LifeSearch Partners Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA Registration Number: 656479.