Bangor, ME asked in Estate Planning for Maine

Q: How can I structure if so my girlfriend can continue living in my house when I die, but my kids get the house as a part

of my estate?

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1 Lawyer Answer
Daniel J. Eccher
Daniel J. Eccher
Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Winthrop, ME
  • Licensed in Maine

A: It would be best to talk to an estate planning lawyer about your specific situation, but the short answer is that you could leave your girlfriend a "life estate" in the house in a will (or codicil to an existing will), with the remainder going to your children. The life estate would mean she would have use of the house for the rest of her life, but your children would have a "future interest." Another option would be to set up a trust, where the house could be held in trust for your girlfriend's benefit.

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