What is Cohabitation?
In recent years, the concept of cohabitation has expanded to include any two partners who have integrated their residence, property and daily lives. It is often seen as a starting point for people headed toward marriage, but can also be an ultimate arrangement for couples who don’t want the social, personal and legal commitment that marriage represents. There are numerous other reasons individuals cohabitate, including: • Reduction of living expenses. • Inability of a union of same-sex individuals to be recognized by the law. • Choice by older individuals who don’t want to upset family or friends through remarriage. The need for Cohabitation Agreements. By choosing cohabitation, couples are foregoing certain rights and protections provided for them in a marital union. Married couples accrue legal rights, including the right to receive a property settlement and/or support in the event of divorce; file joint tax returns; receive distributions from estates free of estate tax; receive surv
