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Cohabitation Agreement

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Non-Marital Cohabitation Agreement

READ BEFORE SIGNING: IMPORTANT NOTICE: EACH PARTY TO THIS AGREEMENT AGREES THAT THEY HAVE HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO CONSULT WITH AN ATTORNEY OF THEIR CHOICE LICENSED TO PRACTICE LAW IN THEIR STATE OF RESIDENCE (NOT THE SAME ATTORNEY) AND THAT EACH PARTY HAS FULLY READ, UNDERSTAND AND AGREE TO THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT. EACH PARTY FURTHER AGREES THAT THEY ARE NOT ACTING UNDER DURESS OR UNDUE INFLUENCE IN EXECUTING THIS AGREEMENT AND THAT EXECUTION OF SAME IS DONE FREELY AND VOLUNTARILY.

THIS AGREEMENT, made this day of , 20 , between , of ("First Party"), and , of ("Second Party")

WHEREAS, the parties now reside together or are in contemplation of establishing a residence together; and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to execute this agreement in contemplation of said cohabitation, or in consideration of continued cohabitation; and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to enter into an agreement regarding certain properties, responsibilities, duties and obligations including, but not limited to, any interest, present or future, legal or equitable, vested or contingent, in real or personal property, including income and earnings; and

WHEREAS, the parties have furnished each other with a financial statement which each party acknowledges is a full and complete disclosure of substantially all of the real and personal property now owned by him or her. Each party acknowledges that the values are an estimate by him or her of the approximate present value thereof, all of which property is now and shall continue to be separate properties of the respective parties, copies of said financial statements are attached hereto as Exhibits “A” and “B” respectively; and

WHEREAS, the parties desire to express in writing their agreement that, except as hereinafter specifically provided, their cohabitation shall not in any way change their rights, or the rights of their heirs (exclusive of the parties) or of their devisees or legatees, in the real and personal property owned or hereafter acquired by each of the parties and that said rights shall be governed by the terms of this agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the parties and of their mutual promises and agreements, they agree one with the other as follows:

1. Previously Owned Property: Except as otherwise provided herein, each of the parties shall have full control of the property, real, personal and mixed, wherever located, of the other and shall have and hereby is given the right to lease, sell, convey, mortgage or otherwise dispose of the same and receive all monies, rents, issues, income and profits thereof without any restrictions whatever and without interference from the other party. Further, both parties waive any rights which may be established by cohabitation, except as expressly provided for in this agreement.

Property acquired by either party prior to execution of this agreement that shall hereafter be considered property of both parties and therefore joint property is as follows:

2. Debts: The parties agree in reference to debts as follows:

(a) As to Debts of either party incurred prior to cohabitation:

To be mutually responsible for said debts.

To be responsible for their individual debts only.

To jointly be responsible for only the following debts:

(b) As to debts incurred by the parties after cohabitation:

Such debts shall be the responsibility of the part incurring same.

Both parties shall be responsible for the debts of both parties. The debts shall be considered joint.

The parties shall only be jointly responsible for joint debts and each party shall be responsible for their own individual debts.

3. Wills:

The parties have each executed a Last Will and Testament, copies of which are attached hereto as Exhibits “C” and “D”.

The parties shall not change their existing Will, if any, or make a new will at this time, but any new Will executed shall be in conformance with the provisions of this agreement.

4. Evidence of Agreement. The fact that either party (without being obligated to do so) may give, devise or bequeath to the other party property or an interest therein, or otherwise confer rights or powers on the other party, in trust or by gift or will, shall not be construed as a waiver of any provision hereof or as evidence that there is or was an agreement or understanding between the parties other than as specifically expressed herein.

5. Execution of Documents: Each party agrees, on behalf of himself or herself and of his or her heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, that he, she or they, at the request of the other party or the latter's heirs, executors, administrators and assigns (but at the cost of the other party or his or her heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns), will make, do, execute, acknowledge and deliver any and all such further or other acts, deeds and instruments as shall be appropriate, necessary or desirable to carry in effect the intent, purpose and provisions of this agreement without question or delay, except that neither party shall be obliged to sign any mortgage, note, bond or other instrument which may subject him or her, or his or her estate and property, to personal liability.

6. Property and Disposition of Property: Assets acquired by the parties during cohabitation shall be acquired in the name or names of the parties who will own same. All personal property located in the residence of the parties shall be considered equally owned by the parties except items owned prior to cohabitation, or items acquired by inheritance or gift to only one party. Unless owned in both names all property shall be considered the property of the party in whose name the property is titled. In selling, assigning, granting, releasing, conveying or otherwise dealing with the property of either party, the property of one party shall not be sold, assigned, released, conveyed, or otherwise disposed of without the express written consent of the property’s owner.

7. Expenses: The parties agree to share the following expenses as provided below. “Both” means that the expenses will be shared equally.

Expense First Party Second Party Both
Housing
Telephone
Residential Gas
Electricity
Cable
Internet
Groceries
Auto Payments (First Party)
Auto Payments (Second Party)
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Health Expense
Dental Expense
Other

The parties shall be solely liable or accountable for the following expenses which they may incur or be otherwise accountable for: Child support for any children not of this relationship, child care for any child not of this relationship, magazine subscriptions, health club memberships, food eaten outside the residence when other cohabitant party is not present, food for any third party, medical care for any third party, dental care for any third party, traffic fines and costs, tax penalties and liabilities, entertainment expenses for any third party, or entertainment expenses when both cohabitants are not present, legal expenses, personal hygiene or personal care expenses including but not limited to beauty shops, barbershops, health spas, nail care salons, private nursing care, personal trainers, therapists, gambling expenses, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, toiletry items, vacation expenses when other cohabitant is not present, any expense of guest of other cohabitant, any travel expense including but not limited to travel tickets, motels, hotels, rental cars, charge upon any credit card, bank loans not jointly signed, gifts, or tips for any expenditure, care, maintenance or entertainment for any friend or relative.

8. Bank Accounts: The parties agree to the following: (Check all that apply).

The parties shall deposit earnings and other funds in joint checking and/or savings accounts, for disposition at will by either party.

Each party shall retain his or her own earnings and other funds in his or her own individual savings, checking, or other account, for disposition at will, except for funds needed for household expenses, if so indicated in this agreement.

The parties shall maintain a joint checking account for household expenses such as rent, food, household supplies, and utilities. The parties shall contribute to this account the amounts necessary to cover the household expenses.

9. Health Insurance. Both parties hereby agree that:

Both parties will make every reasonable effort to include the other party on any health insurance that might be provided by an employer, equally dividing the cost of said health insurance.

The parties will be individually responsible for their own health insurance.

10. Life Insurance. The parties agree that:

The parties will make every reasonable effort to name each other as the beneficiary of any life insurance policies held.

The parties will not name each other as beneficiaries for any life insurance policies held.

11. Health Care Decisions. The parties agree that:

Each party shall execute a durable power of attorney for the purposes of health care decisions in favor of the other party.

The parties will not be entitled to make health care decisions for one another.

12. Post-Cohabitation Support: Regardless of the length of the period of cohabitation, neither party hereto shall be entitled to any claim for maintenance, alimony, palimony or any other payment based on a claim that the cohabitation inferred, granted, created, or inferred that said right or claim would be created by said cohabitation, except as provided herein. Further both of the parties hereto, hereby agree to indemnity and hold harmless, the other party from any such claim, and against any court costs or attorney fees associated with any claim in contravention of this agreement.

The parties agree that in the event of the dissolution of the relationship and the termination of cohabitation:

Neither party shall have any obligation to support the other party, either during the relationship or in the event that the relationship terminates.

The parties agree that in the event of a separation and an end to cohabitation of the parties, shall pay to , the amount of $ per month for a period of months.

13. Post-Cohabitation Provisions: The parties further agree that in the event of separation and the end of cohabitation, the following additional provisions shall apply notwithstanding the other provisions of this agreement: (Check any that apply).

shall be entitled to receive the following property:

shall be entitled to receive the following property:

The following property shall be sold and the proceeds, less expenses divided equally between the parties:

14. Controlling Law: This agreement shall be controlled, construed and given effect by and under the laws of the State of Wisconsin. It is the intent of the parties that the Agreement be enforced to the fullest extent permissible under applicable laws and public policies. The invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability of any particular provision of this Agreement shall not affect the other provisions, and this Agreement shall be construed in all respects as if such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision had been omitted.

15. Entire Agreement: This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties pertaining to its subject matter and it supersedes all prior contemporaneous agreements, representations and understandings of the parties. No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by all parties.

16. Waiver: No waiver of any provision of this Agreement shall be deemed, or shall constitute, a waiver of any other provision, whether or not similar, nor shall any waiver constitute a continuing waiver. No waiver shall be binding unless executed in writing by the party making the waiver.

17. Binding Effect: This Agreement shall be binding upon the parties hereto and upon their respective executors, administrators, legal representatives, successors, and assigns.

18. Amendment: This agreement may only be amended or revoked by written amendment signed by both parties.

19. Representation: Each party further agrees and affirms as follows:

(a) That the party did execute the agreement voluntarily; and

(b) That this agreement is not unconscionable when it was executed; and

(c) Both parties were provided prior to execution of this agreement a fair and reasonable disclosure of the property or financial obligations of the other party;

(d) Both parties had the opportunity to consult with counsel prior to executing this document.

20. Marriage: The parties make no promise, contract or agreement, one to another, that this cohabitation will result in marriage.

21. Children: Any rights and obligations of the parties relating to children of the parties, if any, shall be governed by separate agreement and the laws of the State of Wisconsin.

IN WITNESS WHEREFORE, the parties hereby execute this agreement in several counterparts, any executed copy of which shall be considered for all purposes as an original, on the day and year above written.

FIRST PARTY

SECOND PARTY

STATE OF

COUNTY OF

The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me on , (date) by .

______________________________

Notary Public

(Seal, if any)

Printed Name:

My Commission Expires:

STATE OF

COUNTY OF

The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me on , (date) by .

______________________________

Notary Public

(Seal, if any)

Printed Name:

My Commission Expires:

Exhibit “A” - Personal Financial Disclosure Statement

To: Date:

Individual Information

Name:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Occupation:

Phone:

Current Assets / Current Liabilities

Individual Income Information (Annual)

Salary:

Bonus:

Commissions:

Dividends:

Rental Income:

Other Income (List):

Total Income:

Contingent Liabilities

We/I Certify this Statement to be true and correct as of the date indicated:

Signature

Exhibit “B” - Personal Financial Disclosure Statement

To: Date:

Individual Information

Name:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Occupation:

Phone:

Current Assets / Current Liabilities

Individual Income Information (Annual)

Salary:

Bonus:

Commissions:

Dividends:

Rental Income:

Other Income (List):

Total Income:

Contingent Liabilities

We/I Certify this Statement to be true and correct as of the date indicated:

Signature

Schedules

Schedule A - Real Estate

Schedule B - Motor Vehicles

Schedule C - U.S. Government Securities

Schedule D - Non Marketable Securities

Schedule E - Stocks

Schedule F - Notes Payable Secured

Schedule G - Notes Payable Unsecured

Schedule H - Real Estate Mortgages

Schedule I - Auto Loans

We/I Certify this Statement to be true and correct as of the date indicated:

Signature

Enter text✕

What a Cohabitation Agreement Is and When You Need One

A Cohabitation Agreement is a private contract between two people who live together or plan to live together that sets out property rights, financial arrangements, debt responsibility, and expectations if the relationship ends. It clarifies ownership of assets acquired before and during cohabitation, specifies how shared expenses and liabilities are handled, and may address pets, dispute resolution, and confidentiality. When properly executed it creates enforceable contractual rights but must comply with state contract rules and avoid provisions that conflict with family law or public policy.

Why a Cohabitation Agreement Matters for Unmarried Partners

A Cohabitation Agreement reduces uncertainty by documenting financial and property rights, helping prevent disputes if partners separate or one dies. It promotes transparency about expenses, debt allocation, and decision authority, and can simplify estate planning when coordinated with wills and beneficiary designations.

Why a Cohabitation Agreement Matters for Unmarried Partners

Who Typically Uses a Cohabitation Agreement

Typical users include unmarried couples, domestic partners, and partners entering joint purchases or shared financial arrangements.

  • Unmarried couples planning shared finances, property ownership, or child-care arrangements.
  • Partners buying or leasing real estate together who want clear ownership and payment terms.
  • Individuals protecting separate assets, inheritances, or business interests while cohabiting.

Consider a written agreement whenever shared property, significant financial interdependence, or inheritance risk exists; consult counsel if state law may alter enforceability.

Common Signatory Profiles

Partner A

Primary income earner or property co-purchaser who typically wants clear title allocation, mortgage responsibility terms, and protection for pre-existing assets; clauses often define contribution credits and remedies on separation and help coordinate estate planning.

Partner B

Lower-earning or non-earning partner who seeks clarity on shared expense allocation, rights to residence, and spousal-equivalent support expectations; the agreement can set notice periods, dispute-resolution methods, and financial transition terms.

Essential Information to Include

Full Legal Names: Legal names as on government ID
Addresses: Current street address and ZIP
Asset Schedule: List major separate and joint assets
Financial Contributions: Specify how expenses are split
Debts & Liabilities: Allocate responsibility for debts
Governing Law: Designate the state law

Step-by-Step: Completing a Cohabitation Agreement

Follow these steps to prepare, review, and finalize a clear, enforceable Cohabitation Agreement.

  • 01
    Discuss terms: Agree on assets, expenses, and obligations
  • 02
    Draft the agreement: Use clear language and itemized schedules
  • 03
    Review with counsel: Obtain independent legal advice for each party
  • 04
    Sign and authenticate: Execute with signatures, date, and notarization where advised

Where to Send or File Your Completed Agreement

A Cohabitation Agreement is typically retained by the parties; some situations benefit from notarization or filed attachments depending on state or property transactions.

  • Personal Records: Each party keeps an original signed copy
  • Attorney File: Counsel retains a copy for future reference
  • Notary Archive: Notary may keep journal entry when notarized
  • Property Closings: Attach agreement when recording or closing real estate

Customizing and Completing the Agreement Online

Set up a digital workflow to collect signatures, dates, and any witness or notarization steps needed for your jurisdiction.

Field Configuration
Signature Required — sign and date fields for each party
Initials Optional — use for page-by-page acknowledgement
Notary Block Include notarization lines where state recommended
Witness Lines Add witness name/signature fields if state requires

Digital Signing and eSubmission Considerations

Choose an eSignature workflow that supports secure authentication, an audit trail, and the formats you need.

  • File Formats: PDF, DOCX supported
  • Integrations: Works with Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Salesforce
  • Authentication: Email, SMS, or stronger as required

Ensure the provider supports ESIGN and UETA compliance, produces an audit trail, and offers methods for notarization or witnessing when required.

Timing Considerations and Practical Deadlines

There are no federal filing deadlines for a Cohabitation Agreement, but timing affects evidentiary weight and rights—sign before major transactions or moves.

Before Moving In:

Execute prior to shared residence or joint purchases

Before Closing:

Sign before real estate closings to reflect ownership terms

When Assets Change:

Update agreement when major assets are acquired

Before Estate Events:

Coordinate with wills and beneficiary updates

Notice Periods:

Specify advance notice for termination or sale

Typical Completion Milestones

A typical Cohabitation Agreement moves from negotiation to execution across four core stages.

01

Negotiation

Parties agree on scope and key terms

02

Drafting

Prepare written agreement with schedules and exhibits

03

Review

Independent legal review by each party recommended

04

Execution

Sign, date, and notarize if advisable

Common Risks and Consequences of Defective Agreements

Unenforceable Terms: Court may void illegal provisions
Ambiguous Language: Leads to dispute and litigation costs
Missing Signatures: Unsigned documents lack contractual effect
Undisclosed Debts: Creditors may assert claims against assets
No Notarization: Reduces evidentiary weight in some states
Conflict With Family Law: Certain family law matters may supersede contract

Frequent Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using vague clauses like 'reasonable share' instead of specific percentages or amounts, which creates interpretation disputes and litigation risk.
  • Failing to list separate property and relying on memory; omit schedules and courts may reject oral claims of ownership.
  • Signing without independent legal advice; courts may scrutinize agreements where one party lacked counsel or was under duress.
  • Not updating the agreement after major life events such as property purchases, child birth, or significant changes in income.

How Couples Use a Cohabitation Agreement in Practice

Two representative examples show typical uses: clarifying property rights for a purchase and coordinating estate issues.

Real Estate Purchase

A couple planning to buy a house together spelled out percentage ownership and mortgage contributions.

  • They allocated title shares and repayment credits.
  • When the relationship ended, the schedule and credits avoided a court property dispute and guided a buyout without protracted litigation.

Estate Coordination

Partners with separate inheritances documented that inheritances remain separate property.

  • They added a clause referencing wills and beneficiary designations.
  • The agreement simplified probate coordination, reduced uncertainty for heirs, and preserved intended distributions after death.

Comparing eSignature Providers for Executing a Cohabitation Agreement

Key plan features and starting prices for common eSignature providers; signNow appears first to reflect available plan data and compliance options.

signNow DocuSign Adobe Sign PandaDoc HelloSign
Starting Price $8/user/mo $15/user/mo $14/user/mo $19/user/mo $15/user/mo
Free Trial 7-day free trial Varies by plan Varies by plan Varies by plan Varies by plan
Bulk Send Yes (plan-based) Yes Yes Yes Varies
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes Yes Yes No No

Frequently Asked Questions About Cohabitation Agreements

Answers to common legal and practical questions about drafting, signing, and enforcing a Cohabitation Agreement.


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