What are the requirements for domestic partnership in Boston Massachusetts?

* Both partners must be at least 18 years old.

* Both partners must have resided in Massachusetts for at least 6 months.

* Neither partner may be legally married or in another domestic partnership.

* Neither partner may be related to the other partner by blood or adoption.

Process

To register as domestic partners, you must:

1. Complete an application. The application is available online or at any Boston City Hall.

2. Pay a $25 fee.

3. File the application with the Boston City Clerk's Office.

4. Bring a valid photo ID and proof of residency for both partners.

Your domestic partnership will be registered within 2 business days of filing your application. You will be issued a certificate of domestic partnership, which is proof of your legal partnership.

Benefits of Domestic Partnership in Boston

Domestic partners are entitled to many of the same rights and responsibilities as married couples, including:

* The ability to file joint state and federal tax returns

* The right to health insurance coverage through your partner's employer

* The right to make medical decisions for your partner if he or she is incapacitated

* The right to inherit your partner's property if he or she dies without a will

* The right to file a wrongful death lawsuit if your partner is killed

Domestic partnership is a valuable legal status that can provide many benefits to unmarried couples. If you are considering becoming domestic partners, it is important to learn about the requirements and process.