Living Together in Alberta. When Do You Become Adult Interdependent Partners, and Why Does It Matter?

🔹 In Simple Terms

In Alberta, unmarried couples may be considered Adult Interdependent Partners (AIPs) if they meet certain legal criteria. Once you are AIPs, you can have similar rights and responsibilities to married spouses, including obligations to divide family property on separation and, in some cases, a right to partner support. Understanding when an AIP relationship begins can help you make informed decisions.

🔹 When Are You Considered Adult Interdependent Partners?

In Alberta, you are generally considered AIPs if any one of the following applies:

1. You have lived together for at least three years
   You have lived together in a relationship of interdependence for a continuous period of at least three years.
2. You have a child together
   You are the parents of a child together and are, or have been, in a relationship of some permanence.
   Note: Simply having a child together does not automatically make you AIPs.
3. You have an AIP Agreement
   You have entered into a written Adult Interdependent Partner Agreement that meets the legal requirements of the Family Property Act.

🔹 Why Does It Matter?

Once you are AIPs, you may have legal rights and obligations similar to married spouses, including:

• Division of family property under Alberta’s Family Property Act
• A possible entitlement to partner support, depending on the facts
• Responsibilities for family debt
• Rights and obligations regarding children

🔹 Practical Tips

• Be aware of how long you have been living together and the nature of your relationship.
• Keep records of important milestones (e.g., when you began living together, financial arrangements, major purchases).
• Consider an AIP Agreement to set out your rights and responsibilities.
• Seek legal advice if you are unsure about your status or are planning for the future.

Relationships take many forms. Understanding your legal rights today can help you plan for a more secure tomorrow.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create a solicitor-client relationship. Legal outcomes depend on specific facts and applicable law.

Author: Mara Li
Copyright: © Bayview Law. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or sharing is prohibited.

#CalgaryEstateLawyer #ChineseSpeakingLawyer #FamilyLawyer #AdultInterdependentPartners #CommonLawAlberta #AlbertaFamilyLaw