If you and another person want to live together but aren’t going to be married, one kind of protection that you might want to look into is a cohabitation agreement. This agreement, also known as a “living together” agreement is a legal document that you should carefully consider because it allows you to safeguard yourself and to protect your individual interests and assets.
When you’re unmarried and living together, the reality is that it’s easier to split up. You may end up separating eventually, but you won’t have the same protections as you would during divorce. To help eliminate the risk of separating and losing what is yours, you may want to sign a cohabitation agreement.
Take the right steps to create a binding cohabitation contract
If you do decide to move in with your partner, consider a cohabitation agreement. Your attorney can help draw it up.
This agreement can be legally entered into by both parties. It can also cover certain rights that are usually only given to those who are married. For example, you can address who will keep items that are purchased together during the relationship.
Do you have to have a written contract?
You can make a cohabitation agreement without ever writing it down. This is called an implied agreement. This is hard to prove in court, which is why it’s smart to have your attorney help you create a physical document.
Our website has more information about living together without being married and how to protect your interests. Cohabitation can be a wonderful experience, but it’s still a smart choice to take steps to protect yourself.