What are the benefits of a domestic partnership?

People in domestic partnerships receive legal benefits that guarantee right of survivorship, hospital visitation, and other rights. The term is not used consistently, which results in some inter-jurisdictional confusion.

What is a domestic partnership?

Some states refer to the institution as a " civil union ." But the definition of a domestic partnership or civil union varies from one city or state to the next. Two people in a committed relationship often want to formalize their bond and gain certain legal rights. One way they can do this is by entering a domestic partnership.

Are domestic partnerships recognized?

Domestic partnerships are only recognized at the state level. Some states have never recognized them and are unlikely to do so in the future. Marriage confers many more benefits. While domestic partners have certain rights in states that recognize them, they do not have all the benefits marriage grants.