Understanding Cohabitation Agreement

A cohabitation agreement is a type of legal contract that exists between two individuals who live together. This type of legal agreement functions to ensure that a couple residing within the same home are protected from legal proceedings and costs if they choose to separate in the future. A cohabitation agreement will detail the rights and responsibilities of both parties.

In many ways, this type of agreement is similar to a prenuptial agreement. It will detail the financial responsibilities of each individual. For example, a cohabitation agreement may indicate that each party is responsible for contributing equally to the financial responsibilities that arise throughout the duration of their cohabitation. These costs may include rent or mortgage payments, utilities, and groceries, just to name a few.


In addition, a cohabitation agreement will detail how property is to be divided in the event that the couple separates. This contract will list which assets are to be designated to each individual upon separation. This agreement is particularly important when considering assets that were purchased by both parties jointly.


Other factors that may be covered in a cohabitation agreement include the financial and personal responsibilities of caring for any existing children and the responsibilities of each party in regard to addressing debt.


Many couples who decide to live together do not consider a cohabitation agreement. However, this contract is important to ensure that the rights of each party are upheld in the event of an unforeseen separation.

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