An “Unmarried partner,” also known as a domestic partner, is specifically defined as a person who shares a close personal relationship with the reference person. This definition may undercount unmarried partner unions if unmarried partners live together but neither is the reference person.

What rights do I have as an unmarried partner?

As an unmarried partner you are entitled to be known by whatever name you wish and can change that name at any time. Two people living together can decide to use the same family name, although legally they do not have to.

Is it legal for unmarried couples to live together?

Many couples live together before they get married, or choose not to get married at all. However, unmarried couples living together have different legal rights compared to married couples. Unmarried couples don’t have the same legal protection as married couples; and they also have less responsibility to each other in the event of a breakup.

What’s the difference between a partnership and a marriage?

That is, a partnership for all intents and purposes but not a marriage by law. This term is used commonly in government regulations concerning taxation and social security as it implies cohabitation, sharing of financial responsibilities and so on.

What’s the difference between living together and civil partnership?

It does not cover civil partnerships. For more information see Civil partnerships and living together – legal differences. Although there is no legal definition of living together, it generally means to live together as a couple without being married. Couples who live together are sometimes called common-law partners.

How are unmarried couples different from married couples?

However, unmarried couples living together have different legal rights compared to married couples. Unmarried couples don’t have the same legal protection as married couples; and they also have less responsibility to each other in the event of a breakup.