Are civil unions recognized for veterans' benefits?
In North Carolina, civil unions are not recognized for veterans benefits. The civil union law in North Carolina does not include any language about veterans benefits, so veterans’ benefits are not available to those who are in a civil union. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the federal agency responsible for the administration of veterans’ benefits and only recognizes marriages in heterosexual or same-sex relationships that are in compliance with the laws of the state in which the couple resides. As North Carolina does not recognize civil unions, veterans in a civil union in North Carolina do not have access to veterans benefits. However, there are other legal benefits associated with civil unions that are available to couples in North Carolina. These benefits can include spousal support, the right to make medical decisions for a partner, the right to inherit property, and the right to file joint taxes. There are also state laws that can protect civil union couples from discrimination in housing and employment. Civil unions are not recognized for veterans’ benefits in North Carolina, but that does not mean that couples in civil unions cannot enjoy some of the other legal benefits associated with these unions. It is important to discuss any potential legal rights and obligations with an experienced attorney if you are considering entering into a civil union.
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