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Pennsylvania 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 agree that these Wills are in conformity with the provisions of this agreement and as consideration for this agreement, each party does hereby waive any and all objection to the terms of the said Last Will and Testament of the other and each party agrees not to contest or renounce the terms of thereof. Likewise, each party agrees not to contest or renounce any future Wills or Codicils, which are in conformity with the terms of this agreement.

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.

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 Pennsylvania. 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 Pennsylvania.

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

Notary for First Party

STATE OF

COUNTY OF

On this, the day of , , before me , the undersigned officer, personally appeared , known to me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person whose name subscribed to the within instrument, and acknowledged that executed the same for the purposes therein contained.

In witness whereof, I hereunto set my hand and official seal.

Printed Name:

My Commission Expires:

Notary for Second Party

STATE OF

COUNTY OF

On this, the day of , , before me , the undersigned officer, personally appeared , known to me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person whose name subscribed to the within instrument, and acknowledged that executed the same for the purposes therein contained.

In witness whereof, I hereunto set my hand and official seal.

Printed Name:

My Commission Expires:

EXHIBIT “A” - PERSONAL FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

To: Date:

Individual Information

Name:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Occupation:

Phone:

Current Assets and Liabilities

Individual Income Information (Annual)

Contingent Liabilities

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

EXHIBIT “B” - PERSONAL FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

To: Date:

Individual Information

Name:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Occupation:

Phone:

Current Assets and Liabilities

Individual Income Information (Annual)

Contingent Liabilities

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

Enter text✕

What a Pennsylvania Cohabitation Agreement Is

A Pennsylvania Cohabitation Agreement is a written contract between two unmarried adults who live together or plan to do so, setting out rights and obligations about property, support, debts, and other financial matters. It records each party's expectations and allocates ownership or use of assets acquired before and during cohabitation. While it cannot determine child custody or divest mandatory public benefits, a clear written agreement helps reduce disputes and provides objective evidence in later legal proceedings if enforceability issues arise.

Why a Written Cohabitation Agreement Matters

A cohabitation agreement creates predictable rules for asset division, clarifies financial responsibilities, and preserves each party’s expectations. In Pennsylvania, a written contract is stronger evidence of intent than oral arrangements and can reduce litigation risk if properly executed and supported by consideration.

Why a Written Cohabitation Agreement Matters

Typical Situations Where Couples Use This Agreement

Common scenarios include unmarried couples buying property together, individuals sharing expenses, and partners wanting to define financial arrangements without marriage.

  • Newly cohabiting couples splitting rent and bills who want clear financial rules.
  • Couples purchasing or holding title to real estate together and needing ownership clarity.
  • Partners with separate businesses or inheritances who want to protect premarital assets.

Use in these situations helps document intent, reduce ambiguity, and create enforceable contractual obligations when drafted and executed correctly.

Who Typically Signs

Unmarried Couples

Two adults living together who want a private contract defining property, expense sharing, debt responsibility, and future division of assets in the event of separation; agreements are often paired with independent legal advice.

Property Co-Owners

People who jointly acquire real property, vehicles, or business interests while cohabiting and need clear ownership percentages, transfer rules, sale procedures, and responsibility for mortgages or liens to prevent disputes.

Core Elements to Include in the Agreement

A professionally structured Pennsylvania Cohabitation Agreement addresses ownership, financial obligations, dispute resolution, and end-of-relationship procedures while respecting limits on child-support and public benefits.

Parties & Recitals

Identify each party by full legal name, address, and relationship status; state the agreement purpose and effective date to establish context and intent for enforcement.

Asset Ownership

Describe separately owned assets, jointly owned property, and procedures for title changes, sale, and distribution; use schedules or exhibits for detailed lists to avoid ambiguity.

Debts & Liabilities

Allocate responsibility for existing and future debts, including mortgages, loans, credit cards, and tax liabilities; specify indemnity or repayment schedules where appropriate.

Support & Waivers

State whether parties waive spousal-style support rights; clearly note that waivers may not be enforceable regarding child support or public benefit entitlements.

Termination Terms

Define events that end the agreement (separation, moving out, death), notice requirements, and steps for valuation, buyouts, or sale of jointly owned assets.

Dispute Resolution

Specify governing law (commonly Pennsylvania), mediation or arbitration procedures, and venue for litigation to streamline dispute handling and lower litigation costs.

Step-by-Step: Prepare, Execute, and Preserve the Agreement

Follow these sequential steps to prepare and finalize a robust Pennsylvania Cohabitation Agreement.

  • 01
    Draft the Terms: List assets, debts, and responsibilities clearly.
  • 02
    Review with Counsel: Each party should obtain independent legal advice.
  • 03
    Sign and Notarize: Execute in presence of a notary or witnesses.
  • 04
    Store Copies: Retain original and provide certified copies to parties.

How to Configure an Online Signing Workflow

Set up a digital workflow that secures identity, ensures proper ordering, and preserves an auditable trail of execution.

Field Configuration
eSignature Platform signNow | Use audit trail and template features
Authentication Email + SMS code | Two-factor options
Notarization In-person or RON | Select per state rules
Storage Format PDF/A | Archival, tamper-evident copy

Where the Agreement Goes After Signing

After execution follow a simple routing process to complete evidence and recordkeeping steps.

  • Deliver Original: Provide each party with an original signed copy.
  • Notarize if Needed: Have signature blocks notarized for stronger proof.
  • Record for Property: Record only if the agreement transfers or affects real property.
  • Archive Securely: Store electronic PDF/A and retain the notarized original.

Technical Requirements for Secure Digital Completion

Use a platform that supports secure signer authentication, tamper-evident PDFs, and audit trails for admissible electronic records.

  • Authentication: Email plus optional SMS or KBA
  • File Formats: PDF, DOCX; export as PDF/A
  • Integrations: Works with Google Workspace and NetSuite

Essential Information to Capture in the Agreement

Party Names: Full legal names
Addresses: Street, city, state, ZIP
Effective Date: MM/DD/YYYY
Asset Lists: Detailed descriptions
Debt Allocations: Identify responsible party
Signature Blocks: Signatures and dates

Consequences of an Improper or Defective Agreement

Unenforceability: Court may refuse enforcement
Tax Issues: Incorrect reporting exposure
Property Disputes: Title conflicts or liens
Creditor Claims: Debts may attach to assets
Public Policy Limits: Child support cannot be waived
Evidentiary Gaps: Oral terms are hard to prove

Common Preparation Errors to Avoid

  • Using vague asset descriptions that later lead to valuation disputes and increased attorney fees to clarify the parties' intent.
  • Failing to have each party obtain independent legal advice, which can undermine enforceability or lead a court to find unequal bargaining power.
  • Attempting to waive child support or public benefits in language that conflicts with mandatory state law and public-policy protections.
  • Neglecting to notarize or attach exhibits like deeds and titles, which weakens the document's probative value in court.

Practical Tips for a Clear, Enforceable Agreement

Follow these drafting and execution best practices to improve clarity and enforceability of a Pennsylvania Cohabitation Agreement.

Define Terms Precisely
Use unambiguous definitions for 'separate property', 'joint property', and 'contributions' and attach exhibits listing items by identifier to avoid later interpretation disputes.
Independent Counsel
Encourage each party to consult an attorney; courts view mutual legal advice favorably when assessing fairness and informed consent.
Document Consideration
Record any consideration or exchange of rights supporting the contract, such as financial contributions or agreed transfers, to strengthen contract validity.
Preserve Execution Evidence
Notarize signatures when possible, keep dated copies, and use digital audit trails showing signer email, IP address, and timestamps.

Key Dates and Timing Considerations

Track dates that affect enforceability, notice periods, and tax or recording obligations when applicable.

Effective Date:

Date when obligations and rights commence

Execution Date:

When parties sign the agreement

Notarization Date:

When document was notarized, if applicable

Notice Periods:

Time required for termination or modification notices

Recording Deadlines:

File exhibits only if affecting title; follow local recorder rules

Milestone Timeline for Agreement Completion

A simple four-stage timeline clarifies major milestones from initial drafting through secure storage.

01

Drafting

Assemble asset lists, terms, and exhibits for review

02

Review

Each party completes independent counsel review and suggests changes

03

Execution

Signatures obtained, notarization completed if used

04

Preservation

Distribute originals and store archived PDF/A copies

Illustrative Use Cases

These neutral examples show typical ways a Pennsylvania Cohabitation Agreement can be used to prevent disputes and document expectations.

Case Study 1

A couple buying a house together drafted an agreement detailing ownership percentages and mortgage responsibility.

  • Signed before closing to record intent.
  • The agreement clarified sale procedures and buyout pricing, avoiding litigation after relationship breakdown and enabling an amicable property resolution without court-ordered partition.

Case Study 2

Two partners living together set rules for expense sharing and separate bank accounts to avoid commingling.

  • Agreement allocated bills and reimbursement steps.
  • When one partner moved out, the documented obligations and notice requirements simplified settlement of shared utilities and protected the non-debtor partner from unexpected creditor claims.

eSignature Pricing Comparison for Executing the Agreement

Typical vendor pricing and feature availability for executing and storing legally binding agreements; signNow is listed first per vendor comparison conventions.

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 trial, no card Varies by plan Varies by plan Varies by plan Varies by plan
Bulk Send Yes (Premium) Yes Yes Yes No
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes Yes Yes No No

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to commonly asked questions about preparing, signing, and enforcing a Pennsylvania Cohabitation Agreement.


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