Are civil unions recognized on Social Security benefits?

Civil unions are not recognized by the federal government for Social Security benefits in North Carolina. The Social Security Administration recognizes only marriages and certain other relationships such as a common-law marriage. However, North Carolina does provide some benefits to couples who are in a civil union, so they may be eligible for some state-level benefits. For example, a civil union may cause two people to be considered a "spouse" when it comes to inheritance laws, allowing for the partner in the civil union to receive a share of the estate if their partner dies. Additionally, many employers in North Carolina have adopted their own policies that provide benefits to people in a civil union. This could include health insurance coverage, life insurance, and other benefits that the company might offer to married couples. In some cases, employers may even offer benefits to couples in a civil union if the couple is recognized under law in the state. Ultimately, it is up to the employer and the state to decide what benefits, if any, are available to couples in a civil union. It is important to consult with an expert in the laws in your area to see if you might be eligible for any state or employer benefits.

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