‘The estrangement isn’t about politics’: My daughter hasn’t spoken to me for 4 years. Do I leave her a monthly annuity?
MarketWatch
β’Fri, 21 Aug 2026 19:00:00 GMT
π° What Happened
A MarketWatch advice column (The Moneyist) fielded a reader's question about whether to leave a monthly annuity to a daughter with whom they have been estranged and who has not spoken to them for four years. The reader says the estrangement isn't about politics and is weighing their estate-planning options. The column offers guidance on whether and how to provide for an estranged family member.
π The Backstory
Estate planning often forces people to make difficult decisions about how to divide assets among family members, sometimes amid estrangement or damaged relationships. Annuity-style arrangements can provide ongoing income but are not always appropriate or reversible. Financial advisers commonly recommend clear documentation of intentions to avoid disputes among heirs.
π― Why It Matters
Questions about leaving money to estranged relatives are common and emotionally fraught, touching on fairness, obligation and control of one's legacy. The column helps readers think through practical estate-planning tools like annuities and the need for clear instructions. For readers, it offers guidance on how to approach a personal and sometimes painful financial decision.
A MarketWatch advice column (The Moneyist) fielded a reader's question about whether to leave a monthly annuity to a daughter with whom they have been estranged and who has not spoken to them for four years. The reader says the estrangement isn't about politics and is weighing their estate-planning options. The column offers guidance on whether and how to provide for an estranged family member.
Estate planning often forces people to make difficult decisions about how to divide assets among family members, sometimes amid estrangement or damaged relationships. Annuity-style arrangements can provide ongoing income but are not always appropriate or reversible. Financial advisers commonly recommend clear documentation of intentions to avoid disputes among heirs.
Questions about leaving money to estranged relatives are common and emotionally fraught, touching on fairness, obligation and control of one's legacy. The column helps readers think through practical estate-planning tools like annuities and the need for clear instructions. For readers, it offers guidance on how to approach a personal and sometimes painful financial decision.