Domestic Partnership Agreement Template

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A domestic partnership agreement is a contract between two people who live together in a committed relationship similar to a marriage but are not legally married. It explains both partners’ rights and responsibilities, how they should manage shared expenses, property, and debts, and what happens if they separate or one of them passes away.
Paper titled "Domestic Partnership Agreement"; pen; woman and man shaking hands; armchair, table, plant, lamp

Domestic partnership documentation is useful when two people live together in a long-term, romantic relationship and want to protect themselves legally — even if they aren’t married. The use of the domestic partnership agreement PDF allows you to clarify all the legal details of your relationship without the need to hire an attorney.

When To Use a Domestic Partnership Agreement

Common situations:

  • Two people live together and share finances;
  • A couple buys or rents a home together;
  • One partner supports the other financially;
  • A couple shares pets, furniture, and belongings;
  • Partners want to decide how they will divide property and debts if they break up;
  • Partners want to have the right to make healthcare decisions for each other in case of emergency;
  • Same-sex couples that do not get married for legal reasons.

When not to use a domestic partnership agreement:

There are situations when the domestic partnership form is not applicable:

  • The couple is legally married;
  • For temporary relationships or casual dating arrangements;
  • To avoid legal obligations — like taxes, alimony, or child support;
  • For immigration purposes.

How To Fill in a Domestic Partnership Agreement Template: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Write the date and the names of both partners

Part of a domestic partnership agreement
  • Write the date when the legal domestic partnership agreement becomes valid.
  • Provide the full legal names of both partners.
  • Add contact information of both partners.
Example:

This domestic Partnership Agreement is entered into on Jun 5, 2025 by and between John Miller, an individual having their usual place of living at 123 Maple Street, Austin, Texas 78701 and B: Rachel Green, an individual having their usual place of living at 123 Maple Street, Austin, Texas 78701.

Step 2: Add the start date of your partnership

Domestic partnership documentation sample
  • Provide the date when you officially entered into the partnership in the “Subject of the Agreement” section.
Example:

The Parties confirm that they live together and share a common domestic life (the “Partnership”) and that their domestic partnership began on Jun 1, 2025.

Step 3: Describe how you will handle your finances

Sample of a domestic partnership form
  • Mention if you’ll have joint bank accounts or keep finances separate.
  • If you choose to have a joint account, specify how much money each partner should contribute to it.
  • Explain how debts will be managed if you split up.
  • Provide information on how you will divide household expenses and who pays for health insurance in the “Additional Financial Arrangements” section.
  • Explain under what circumstances (if any) the partners will provide financial support to each other.
Example:

Both Partners agree to contribute to the joint bank account(s) in a fair and reasonable manner in the following shares: the Partner 1 acquires 60%; the Partner 2 acquires 40%.

Step 4: Provide terms of the agreement termination

Example of a domestic partnership agreement template
  • Mention when and how one party should inform the other about the termination.
  • Provide contact details of both partners.
Example:

Either Partner may terminate the Agreement by providing a 15-day written notice to the other Partner. 

If to Partner 1: john.miller@email.com

If to Partner 2: rachel.green@email.com

Step 5: Choose the state law

Domestic partner form template example
  • Write which state laws will apply to your domestic partner form if there is a legal issue later.
Example:

This agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, and any disputes arising out or in connection with this Agreement shall be exclusively resolved by the courts of the State of Texas.

Step 6: Sign the document

Domestic partnership document example
  • Write both partners’ full names.
  • Add essential details about both partners, like phone numbers.
  • Sign the document with Lawrina Sign.
Example:

The Partner 1

John Miller

(512)555-0101


The Partner 2

Rachel Green

(512)555-0102

  • Each partner should keep a copy of the signed domestic partnership document.
  • Make changes in the domestic partner agreement if your relationship status or financial situation changes.
  • If you’re unsure about legal terms, consult a lawyer before signing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a domestic partnership agreement be used to establish inheritance rights?

Yes, a domestic partnership agreement can include provisions regarding inheritance, ensuring that a deceased partner's assets are transferred to the surviving partner.

Do I need to hire a lawyer to draft a domestic partnership agreement?

While it’s not necessary to hire a lawyer when drafting a domestic partnership agreement, it’s highly recommended. Your local lawyer can provide legal counseling, check if the agreement is enforceable, and resolve any other issues you might have. So, it’s a good idea to talk to a professional or use the provided domestic partnership agreement template to get started right away.

If I move to another state, is my domestic partnership agreement still valid?

Considering the rules and regulations on domestic partnership agreements are very different from state to state, it’s important to know your legal status. When you and your partner need to move, it’s a good idea to review your domestic partnership agreement. Make all the changes required that will make your agreement legal in the new state or country. This way, you can be sure all the rights and duties you agreed on remain the same.

If I die or become incapacitated, what happens to my partner if I don’t have a domestic partnership agreement?

There are certain rights that are only reserved for married couples. This might include receiving inheritance, making medical choices, and gaining other rights. Without a domestic partnership agreement, your partner can face difficulties when trying to enforce their rights. To protect your domestic partner's interests, it's always a good idea to draft a domestic partnership agreement or consult with a professional with experience in family law.