What are the legal differences between living together and marriage?

Your legal rights as a partner may depend on whether you are married or living together. Living together with someone is sometimes also called cohabitation.

Generally speaking, you will have fewer rights if you’re living together than if you’re married.

The linked information explains the legal differences between being married and living together; this covers same-sex partners who can now get married. It does not cover civil partnerships.

View specific advice on the following:
National Citizens Advice website.
Civil partnerships and living together – legal differences on the National Citizens Advice website.
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