In most cities and counties, both you and your partner need to be residents of the country/city in which you are applying for domestic partnership. However in New York City, Rockland County and Suffolk County, one partner may be an employee of the city/county at the time of registration instead of being a resident. Also, in Albany, Ithaca, and Rochester you do not have to be residents to file. [3] X Research source Both you and your partner need to be 18 years of age. You and your partner cannot be blood related. You and your partner cannot be legally married or in another domestic partnership. You and your partner must be in a close and committed personal relationship. You and your partner must live together, and have been living together on a continuous basis (typically 6 months). You and your partner cannot have been in another domestic partnership within the last 6 months.

Most counties in the state of New York charge an application fee of $35. 00. [8] X Research source [9] X Research source In others, including Suffolk County, the fee is $20. 00. [10] X Research source In the City of Rochester the fee is $50. 00. [11] X Research source Valid forms of ID include a valid driver license or non-driver identification card, original birth certificate, passport, official school record, United States permanent resident card, your employee identification card or your your IDNYC. [12] X Research source

Additional copies of the certificate can be purchased for a fee, which ranges from $9. 00 to $15. 00.

Domestic partners are allowed time off for bereavement and child care responsibilities. In New York City, domestic partners are allowed to visit each other in New York City operated hospitals, correctional, and detention facilities. A domestic partner can be added to a housing rental agreement as a family member. Domestic partners are eligible for health care benefits provided by many cities in New York, including New York City, Albany, Rochester and more. Domestic partners of New York City firefighters, police officers, uniformed correctional officers and other city workers killed while on duty have the right to a monetary award from the city.

Health dental and vision insurance. Sick and bereavement leave. Accident and life insurance. Death benefits. Parental leave.