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| Miss Know It All |
A Domestic Partnership is an interpersonal relationship between two individuals who live together and share a common domestic life, but are not legally married to each other or anyone else. People in domestic partnerships receive benefits that guarantee the right of survivorship, hospital visitation, and others; it provides protection for couples who are not legally married or part of a Civil Union. This agreement is suitable for all types of "Living Together" couples who are in a committed relationship.
The definition of what is a domestic partnership or
what is a civil union may vary depending on the city or state in which one
lives. While local
laws vary, usually, there are few common requirements as to who can enter a
Domestic Partnership:
Age -
Most often, people will need to be over 18 years of age. Some states even have age
requirements for senior citizens.
Commitment - Partners must live together
and be in a committed relationship. How long the couple has been together also
matters, usually it must be longer than six months or a year.
Not In Another Agreement - A couple cannot be in
another agreement (or marriage) and sometimes a waiting period is mandatory
before when one arrangement ends and the next agreement can begin.
Proof of commitment - Some states may require that you
show information displaying your commitment such as lease agreements, mutual
bills, or state IDs listing the same address.
Proving Domestic
Partnership May Include:
· Common ownership of a car or other
property (joint deed or mortgage agreement)
· A driver's license listing a
common address
· Proof of joint bank accounts,
credit card accounts and loans
· Designation as the primary
beneficiary for life insurance, retirement benefits, or under a partner's will
The Benefits of a Domestic Partnership
Are
· Ability to get coverage on a
family health insurance policy
· Right to family leave for a sick
partner
· Right to bereavement leave
· Visitation rights in hospitals and
jails
Local and state governments support Domestic Partnerships, however, when
it comes to filing federal taxes, partners cannot claim head of household with
a partner as a dependent and cannot file as married filing jointly, or married
filing separately. Another complication of tax filing is determining how you
define "community funds" and who paid what to determine who can claim
credits or deductions.
If you
decide to file for Domestic Partnership, as mentioned, laws vary from one state
to another; some have this type of agreement characterized more like a business
or corporate agreement, and you will have to apply with the department that
manages business agreements. Other cities will require you to apply with the
county clerk or recorder. You may also have to apply to be included in a
Domestic Partners Registry for statewide recognition. Some government agencies
even provide a certificate or a laminated card as proof. Since laws vary
greatly, seeking advice from a lawyer about your state's requirements is essential.
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