Own property, co-habitation and care

[mark_s]

My long-term partner has lived in my house for nearly 10 years, and I hope for many more years to come. As it’s my house my name only appears on the deeds. But she is registered on the council tax.

if something were to happen to me and needed long-term say, could the council use my property to cover costs or the fact that she is living with me means the council would not include it as assets?

Would it be better to add her to the deeds and make the ownership clearer?

Regards
Mark

[PallasAthena]

I don't know the best answer for you, hopefully someone here can advise, but just to say be careful never to put in writing or on record that the reason for making any changes is to prevent all or part of it being being taken into account for care financial assessment. If the council.found evidence of that they could say it was deliberate deprivation of assets.

Any of us could hypothetically need long term.care later in life but most people don't. But leaving that aside is there any reason at this time that believe it likely that you personally will need care? Do you have medical conditions that make future long term care foreseeable?

[mark_s]

There’s a history of Alzheimer’s and can see the terrible effects it can have. Point taken regarding deprivation, but this is more about avoiding a terrible situation were my loved one would be forced out or not have a legitimate right to own / live in my house

[echat11]

It might be an idea to speak to 'Future Planning Advisors', some will offer free initial advice.
You can give them the 'scenario' and they can advise and give options. Make an informed decision from there.