Domestic Partnerships

To claim a domestic partnership, members must meet the following conditions:

• Are at least 18 years of age and have the capacity to enter into a contract.
• Share a permanent residence, unless residing in different cities, states or countries on a temporary basis.
• Are the sole domestic partner of each other, having been in the relationship for at least six months and intending to remain in the relationship indefinitely.
• Are not currently married to, or legally separated from, another person under statutory or common law.
• Are responsible for each other’s welfare.
• Are not related by blood to a degree that would bar marriage in the state of Ohio.
• Are financially interdependent on each other. This includes documentation of at least three of the following:
  • Joint ownership of real estate property or joint tenancy on a residential lease.
  • Joint ownership of an automobile.
  • Joint bank or credit account.
  • Will designating the domestic partner as the primary beneficiary.
  • Retirement plan or life insurance policy designating the domestic partner as the primary beneficiary.
  • Durable power of attorney, signed to the effect that powers are granted to one another unless residing in different cities, states or countries on a temporary basis