Q&A for How to File for a California Domestic Partnership

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How much does a domestic partnership cost?

Tom De Backer

Top Answerer

The California State website has lots of information on this topic, including a link to download the form, how and where to file and what it will cost. As of June 2017, that filing fee is $33.

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Question

How does one partner change their last name?

Community Answer

It is allowed under California Law. There may be a different form to fill out, but it should be part of the domestic partnership process.

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Question

What should we do if my partner and I are under 62, but we still want to file?

Community Answer

If you are same sex, then you can file once you're over 18. If you're a heterosexual couple, then you will have to wait until at least one of you turns 62.

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Question

How long after filing do I receive my certificate?

Community Answer

It usually takes about 2-3 weeks. If you still haven't received your certificate by then, call your secretary of state's office.

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Question

Can you get a certificate of Domestic Partnership same day if you deliver it in person?

Andrew Serrano

Top Answerer

There are some smaller courts where you may be able to get this done; however, if this is a necessity, you will need to contact the court and see if this is a possibility. Some counties will have one main records office that will be able to do same-day requests, but be prepared to wait a long time and have a rush fee added to it.

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Can same-sex partners for over 41 years, both over 66, file for domestic partnership?

Community Answer

Yes, as long as they meet the other requirements listed in Step 1.

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Can we file for domestic partnership if we have been living together for over 10 years and we are under the age of 65?

Community Answer

Yes, you can file for domestic partnership under your circumstances. You will have to answer some questions about your living situations and such, but you should be able to file for it.

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How can I get a copy of my certificate if I have misplaced it?

Community Answer

Go to the courthouse and ask for one.

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Question

Do I have to change my last name when filing a domestic partnership?

Community Answer

No. There is no law requiring that you change your name. It's entirely your choice whether or not to do that.

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Question

What happens to the domestic partnership status if one partner dies?

Nico

Top Answerer

The surviving domestic partner is entitled to a percentage of the estate of the deceased partner. If one of the partners dies without leaving a will, the surviving partner is entitled to 50% to 100% of the deceased partner's assets.

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Question

Are there states that allow domestic partnerships for people under age 62? We don’t believe in marriage but need legal protection, especially for hospitals/health reasons.

Felix Flax

Community Answer

Yes, the District of Colombia, Maine, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin allow for domestic partnerships. For healthcare specifically you may want to look into making your partner your Healthcare Power of Attorney or Healthcare Proxy.

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Question

How long does it take to get a response after filing for a domestic partnership?

speed run

Community Answer

The response time varies depending on the local government, the completeness of your application, the office workload, and the method of filing.

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Question

What is the time frame for receiving the certificate after submitting my domestic partnership papers in person?

Lindsay Tennie

Community Answer

The processing time for California Domestic Partnership certificates can vary based on several factors, including current workload and potential delays. Generally, you can expect to receive your certificate within a few weeks after submitting your application in person. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, check the California Secretary of State's website or contact their office directly.

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Question

How long do I have to file the paperwork?

Lindsay Tennie

Community Answer

There is no specific timeframe to file paperwork for a California Domestic Partnership. You can file at any time as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. However, processing times may vary based on workload and other factors, so check the California Secretary of State's website or contact their office directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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