What is the difference between cohabiting and a civil partnership?

Cohabiting refers to a couple living together without being in a civil partnership or married. Cohabiting couples do not have the same legal rights and protections as those in civil partnerships. In the event of a breakup, cohabiting couples may face challenges in terms of property rights, financial support, and inheritance unless they have a Cohabitation Agreement in place.

A civil partnership is a legally recognised relationship between two people that provides legal rights and responsibilities similar to marriage. Couples in a civil partnership have rights regarding property, inheritance, pensions, and tax benefits similar to those of married couples.