When you weren't married
Losing a partner you weren't married to
If your long-term partner has died and you weren't married or in a civil partnership, your grief is just as real, and you are just as welcome in our community. Legally, some things are different: in the UK there is no such thing as common law marriage, so an unmarried partner doesn't automatically inherit, and it is worth getting legal advice early.
Join the communityYour loss counts
Some women who lose a partner they weren't married to feel their grief is overlooked, by officials, by in-laws, sometimes even by friends. Our founder Ethel lost her partner, and African Caribbean Widows UK was built for women who have lost a husband or partner. You belong here.
What's different legally
- Common law marriage isn't recognised in UK law, however long you lived together.
- If your partner died without a will, an unmarried partner doesn't automatically inherit under the intestacy rules in England and Wales.
- In England and Wales, if you lived together as a couple for at least two years before your partner died, or were financially dependent on them, you may be able to make a claim against the estate. There are strict time limits, so speak to a solicitor early.
- Bereavement Support Payment has been open to some unmarried partners with children since 2023.
- GOV.UK: Who inherits if someone dies without a will
Check the rules for England and Wales.
- Citizens Advice
Free, independent advice on money, housing and legal questions.
This page is general information, not legal advice. The rules differ in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Common questions
Can I join a widows group if I wasn't married?
Yes. African Caribbean Widows UK is for women of African and Caribbean heritage who have lost a husband or partner, married or not.
Does an unmarried partner inherit in the UK?
Not automatically. In England and Wales an unmarried partner has no automatic right to inherit if there is no will, though they may be able to make a claim against the estate in some circumstances. It is best to get legal advice early, as time limits apply.