Yes, unmarried couples can be on the same health insurance. Domestic partnerships allow unmarried couples to enjoy the same benefits as married couples. As society evolves, the health industry has evolved alongside them.
Statistics show that the number of married couples in the US has reduced from 58% to 53%, while the percentage of couples who are not married but cohabiting has increased from 3% – 7%. One reason for the rise in domestic partnerships could be that employers recognize them more, hence; people no longer have to wait for marriage before enjoying health benefits with their partner.
Domestic Partnership
There is no definition for who counts as a domestic partner or domestic partnership. A domestic partnership is a term used to describe a couple who live together and share their interpersonal life as married. However, the reality is they are not married or joined in any form of union civilly, religiously, and otherwise.
A domestic partner could be of any gender, there are limitations. Employers who offer domestic partnership may require you to sign an affidavit confirming:
1. How long you have lived together
2. Your age
3. Neither of you is married
4. You are responsible for each other’s welfare
5. You both are eligible for marriage in the state you reside in
6. Both of you are jointly responsible for your living expenses
It is advisable to check your employers’ terms and conditions and what their plan covers. This way nothing will take you by surprise.
Some people believe that domestic partnerships created an avenue to treat same-sex couples fairly since their marriages are not considered/recognized in many states.
However, as more states legalize same-sex marriages, the popularity of domestic partnership insurance has declined. In addition, there are no federal laws that mandate employers to have domestic partnership insurance as part of their benefit plan.
Domestic Partner Insurance – What is it?
Domestic partner insurance offers benefits to domestic partners like they would marry couples.
The objective of this insurance type is to allow you to share your health benefits with your partner and even your children as dependents without getting married.
Registered Domestic Partnership
There is a difference between merely living with your partner as a couple and being in a registered domestic partnership.
When you are in a registered domestic partnership, it means that the state legally recognizes your union as one where two people share their lives but are not married.
Same-sex couples and heterosexual couples are eligible for registering their domestic partnership based on the state they reside in.
Domestic partnerships confer similar benefits associated with marriage, such as adding your partner to your health insurance policy or adopting their child.
How To Certify Your Domestic Partnership
The rules for securing a domestic partnership certificate vary based on your location. In some states like Nevada, you may have to file a Declaration of Domestic Partnership form and have it notarized either physically or electronically. Then you will have to pay a registration fee.
In other states such as New Jersey, you will be requested to produce an Affidavit of Domestic Partnership form to register as a domestic partner.
After you have filed and registered your affidavit with relevant authorities, you will be issued an informational copy of your Certificate of Domestic Partnership.
No matter what state you live in, it is necessary to obtain proof of evidence for your domestic partnership, usually a certificate.
If you live in a state where the law recognizes domestic partnerships check in with the relevant authorities on how to get your certificate.
Domestic Partnership Vs Marriage – What’s The Difference?
| Domestic Partnership | Marriage |
| An alternative to marriage, especially for same sex couples. | A union of two people recognized by the law |
| Allows you to add your partner to your health plan as long as you provide proof of commitment. | Does not require proof asides a marriage certificate |
| Is not recognized in all-state | Recognized everywhere |
| Partners inherit each other’s assets via a will and it is subject to tax | Spouses automatically inherit each other’s assets without tax charges |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Tax Implications For Domestic Partnerships?
A clear difference between marriage and domestic partnership comes to the limelight on the issue of taxation. Federal law dictates that the premiums of health insurance spouses and dependents can’t be taxed. Meaning the premiums for these individuals are tax-free.
How Do I Select A Domestic Partnership Insurance?
Selecting an insurance plan for your domestic partnership is no different from selecting a regular health insurance plan.
You have to research what insurances offer domestic partnership coverage, their premiums, deductibles, waiting periods, and the like.
Paying special attention to your needs during this research stage will ensure you get the best out of your plan.
What Do I Do If My Employer Doesn’t Offer Domestic Partnership Insurance?
There is a possibility that your employer does not offer coverage that can accommodate you and your partner. First, try checking if your partner’s employer offers coverage for both of you.
If neither employer provides domestic partner insurance you can get private insurance from somewhere else. If you are going for a private source aim for somewhere that offers better benefits than your workplace.
You can also bring up the idea with top management in your organization to adopt domestic partnership insurance.
Does Domestic Partner Insurance Cover Children In These Relationships?
Yes, children of domestic partners receive health coverage under their parent’s health plans. In marriage, children are recognized as dependents and thus receive coverage from their parents. The same is applicable to domestic partners.
We strongly advise you to review your employer’s policy to ensure that your children are covered under your insurance plan. Feel free to discuss anything you don’t understand with the insurance agent or the provider’s contact center.
What States Recognize Domestic Partnerships?
| Civil Unions | Domestic Partnerships/Reciprocal Beneficiaries | Same-sex Marriage |
| Hawaii | California | Connecticut |
| Illinois | Maine | Delaware |
| New Jersey | Nevada | New Hampshire |
| Vermont | Oregon | Rhode Island |
| Colorado | Washington | Vermont |
| Wisconsin |
Conclusion
A domestic partnership is a perfect alternative for regular health insurance if you are looking for how you and your partner can enjoy benefits under the same plan. Some plans even allow you to cover your children as dependents under your plan.
To register for domestic insurance check in with your state of residence for eligibility and follow their guidelines.
Sources
Civil Unions and Domestic Partnerships
Health Insurance Benefits for Domestic Partners
Domestic Partnership Vs. Marriage: What’s the Difference?
Understanding Domestic Partnerships and Domestic Partnership Insurance