A domestic partnership is a legal or personal relationship between two people who live together and share a common domestic life but are not married or in a civil union.  Generally, domestic partnership refers to same-sex couples and unmarried opposite sex couples.  Some states use domestic partnerships as a way to legally recognize same-sex couples.  Depending on the state, you may be entitled to some legal protection if you are in a domestic partnership.

The benefits that domestic partners receive are not necessarily the same as married couples, but many states offer benefits to domestic partners that are similar to spouses.  These include matters like inheritance, guardianship, and health insurance.  Several states require businesses to offer the same benefits to domestic partners as they would to spouses.  These benefits can include insurance, bereavement, sick leave, and relocation.  Health, dental, and vision insurance are the most commonly offered benefits.  

You should check with your state of residence to see if domestic partnershipis recognized, and if so, what benefits you and your partner can receive.

Get started Start Your Domestic Partnership Agreement Answer a few questions. We'll take care of the rest.

Get started Start Your Domestic Partnership Agreement Answer a few questions. We'll take care of the rest.