The decision to set up 2 separate files or a combined file for a spouse/partner with joint assets or debts depends on how many of your assets and debts are in joint name versus individual name.
If you’re in a stable, long-term relationship and most assets are in joint name, you only need one QE file.
Where spouses/partners share the same last name:
Under Personal Information, input both your names under first name and then input your shared last name.
First name: Bob and Mary
Last name: Smith
Refresh your screen
Your file appears as Bob and Mary Smith
Where spouses/partners have different last names:
Under Personal Information, input one spouse/partner’s first and last name under first name, with the word
“and” beside it, and input the other spouse/partner’s name as the last name:
First name: Cathy Brown and
Last Name: Michael Smith
Refresh your screen
Your file appears as Cathy Brown and Michael Smith.
Use the joint ownership or joint borrowing fields under each asset and debt to record further details on what form the ownership takes and the percentage owned by each person.
If some assets/debts are in individual name, some in joint name, purchase 2 separate QE files. In each file, use the joint ownership or joint borrowing fields under each asset and debt to record further details on what form the ownership takes and the percentage owned by each person.