Is a civil union recognized by the IRS?
No, civil unions are not recognized by the IRS. Civil unions are a type of legally recognized relationship in which two partners are granted legal rights and responsibilities similar to those of married couples, but without the full status of marriage. This form of relationship has only been available in Texas since 2004. The main legal benefits of civil unions include hospital visitation rights, medical decision-making rights, and the ability to inherit property. Unfortunately, due to the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), civil unions are not legally recognized by the IRS and therefore do not offer the same legal benefits of marriage, such as filing joint federal and state tax returns, receiving Social Security benefits, and qualifying for family health insurance plans. Additionally, civil union partners are unable to claim any tax benefits associated with marriage, such as the Marriage Penalty Tax Relief, or MFJ. This means that individuals in a civil union must still file separate tax returns.
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