Domestic partnership
by Di Goodman
Published on August 21, 2025 · 2 min read
What is a domestic partnership?
A domestic partnership is a legally recognized relationship between two people who live together and share a domestic life but are not married. Created to offer legal protections for same-sex couples before marriage equality, domestic partnerships are now available in some states for both same-sex and opposite-sex couples who prefer an alternative to marriage. The rights and benefits of a domestic partnership vary widely depending on where you live.
Key elements of domestic partnership
Eligibility: Partners typically must be at least 18 years old, unmarried, and living together in a committed relationship. Some jurisdictions may also require proof of cohabitation or financial interdependence.
- Legal recognition: Only certain states, counties, or cities recognize domestic partnerships. Where available, couples may need to register with a government office or employer to receive legal benefits.
- Available rights: Domestic partnerships may offer some of the same benefits as marriage, such as hospital visitation, health insurance coverage, or bereavement leave. However, these rights are often more limited than those provided by marriage.
- Termination process: Ending a domestic partnership may involve a formal process similar to divorce, depending on state laws and whether the couple has shared property or children.
- Not the same as marriage: Domestic partnerships do not provide federal benefits (like tax filing status or immigration sponsorship), and recognition between states is inconsistent.
When a domestic partnership might be the right choice
Some couples choose a domestic partnership instead of marriage for personal, legal, or financial reasons. It can offer a way to formalize a relationship without the full legal implications of marriage. In other cases, domestic partnerships are used when marriage is not legally available or desired.
It’s helpful to understand how your local jurisdiction treats domestic partnerships, particularly when it comes to areas like health care, inheritance, and parental rights. If you’re unsure how the laws apply to your situation, speaking with a family law attorney can offer clarity.
