Cohabitation agreements (also known as nonmarital agreements) are similar to prenuptial agreements for couples who are planning to marry—but cohabitation agreements are for people who are living together and having a sexual relationship without being married. These agreements address issues that may arise during the relationship (payment of rent and other expenses, household chores)—and issues that may arise if the cohabitation relationship ends (ownership and division of home or other property, support).
In Florida, cohabitation agreements, also known as nonmarital agreements, are recognized and enforceable. These agreements allow unmarried couples who live together to outline their rights and responsibilities regarding financial matters, property division, and other practical issues during their relationship and in the event of separation. Florida law does not provide the same legal rights and protections to unmarried cohabitating couples as it does to married couples, making cohabitation agreements a valuable tool for defining such matters privately. The agreements can cover various aspects, including payment of expenses, division of property, and support obligations. It is important for individuals entering into a cohabitation agreement to each consult with an attorney to ensure that the agreement is fair, reasonable, and in compliance with Florida law. Additionally, the agreement must be in writing and signed by both parties to be legally binding.