Do couples need cohabitation agreements?
Dear Cheryl&Mack,
My girlfriend (23F) and I (24M) purchased a home together!
Super exciting - I know!
We're thrilled about this new adventure, but you know how Dads can be…
He keeps bugging me to complete a cohabitation agreement.
I always thought those were for couples in messy situations, right?
We're in love and planning on getting married within the next couple of years. We still need to save for the wedding, but it’s all in the plans.
I’m nervous that if I bring it up to my girlfriend, she’ll think something might happen between us.
I also don't want to ruin the excitement by bringing up something we might never need.
Do you think these cohabitation agreements are important? Should I even consider it?
Thanks!
Best,
Young and Curious
Dear Young and Curious,
Now, I understand that discussing legal matters may not be the most romantic aspect of moving in together, but it's essential to address these things for your peace of mind.
Think of it as a roadmap that outlines how you will handle financial matters, property ownership, and other responsibilities while living together.
It allows you to establish joint expense rules, divide assets acquired during cohabitation, and even address issues like pets or shared debt.
It clarifies what happens in the event of a breakup or dispute, helping to avoid potential conflicts down the line.
By creating a cohabitation agreement, you can customize it to reflect your specific intentions and circumstances.
This document demonstrates your commitment to open communication and responsible financial planning – qualities essential for building a solid foundation as a couple.
It shows that both parties are willing to simultaneously align their expectations and protect their interests.
Discussing these matters does not mean you lack trust or believe the relationship will fail. Rather, it serves as an opportunity for transparency and proactive decision-making.
If drafting this agreement feels overwhelming or confusing, consider consulting with a lawyer specializing in family law or contract law.
They can help ensure all aspects are appropriately addressed and legally binding.
Ultimately, creating a cohabitation agreement can provide peace of mind for both you and your girlfriend while setting clear expectations for living together harmoniously.
So embrace this opportunity for open communication about finances - an essential aspect of any successful relationship!