What is community property and which states follow it?

Community property is a system where property acquired during marriage is owned equally by both spouses regardless of whose income purchased it. Nine states follow community property rules: Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. Property owned before marriage, gifts, and inheritances remain separate property. Upon death, each spouse can will their half of community property to anyone. Upon divorce, community property is divided equally.