Updated May 08, 2024
A relationship contract, or cohabitation agreement, is between a couple to establish rules for a relationship. This contract is sometimes required to establish a domestic partnership. A relationship contract will commonly include how to respect one another and how incomes and expenses are paid.
Is it Legally Enforceable?
Only the agreement’s monetary ($) portion is enforceable (for example, if a partner agrees to pay half the monthly rent).
What’s Included? (8)
- Exclusivity
- Living Arrangements
- Income
- Bank Accounts
- Personal Needs
- Termination
- Liability
- Mutual Respect
Outlines whether the relationship with be either:
To decide if the couple will be living together. If living together, it should be written who will pay for what living expenses on the property.
In most relationships, income is separate. Although, some partners agree to share their income if, for example, one partner works by the hour and the other is in a sales (commission) position.
To decide whether or not to keep their accounts separate or to open a shared bank account.
There can be any types of personal needs required such as:
Most relationships end when a partner is no longer feeling the connection as before. Although, some agreements have an end date (to each their own!).
To require that each partner be liable for anything written in the agreement. For example, if the couple requires that each partner pay their fair share of the rent (50/50), then each partner will be required until the end of the lease term.
The foundation of any relationship includes: