Free Texas Cohabitation Agreement: Complete Legal Template
Define rights for unmarried couples living together
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COHABITATION AGREEMENT State of Texas This Cohabitation Agreement is entered into on [DATE] between: PARTY 1: Name: [NAME] Address: [ADDRESS], TX [ZIP] PARTY 2: Name: [NAME] Address: [ADDRESS], TX [ZIP] The parties intend to live together at [SHARED ADDRESS], TX [ZIP] and agree to the following terms: 1. PROPERTY: Property owned before cohabitation remains separate property. Property acquired jointly during cohabitation shall be owned [ ] equally [ ] proportionally. 2. EXPENSES: Rent/Mortgage: [ ] Split equally [ ] Party 1: [%] Party 2: [%] Utilities: [ ] Split equally [ ] [DESCRIBE] Groceries: [ ] Split equally [ ] [DESCRIBE] 3. BANK ACCOUNTS: [ ] Maintain separate accounts [ ] Open a joint account for shared expenses [ ] Both 4. DEBTS: Each party is responsible for their own pre-existing debts. 5. TERMINATION: Either party may terminate this agreement with [DAYS] days written notice. Upon termination, jointly owned property shall be [DESCRIBE DIVISION]. 6. CHILDREN (if applicable): [DESCRIBE ARRANGEMENTS] 7. DISPUTE RESOLUTION: Disputes shall be resolved by [MEDIATION/ARBITRATION] in Texas. This agreement is governed by Texas law (TX Statutes). PARTY 1: _____________________ DATE: _____ PARTY 2: _____________________ DATE: _____
Texas Cohabitation Agreement Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Cohabitation Agreement is legally valid in Texas.
Texas Notarization
While notarization may not be required in Texas, it is recommended. Fees range from $6-$10.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In Texas, a 6.25% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. Texas law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
Texas Filing Deadlines
Check Texas deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
Where to File Your Cohabitation Agreement in Texas
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Cohabitation Agreement.
Harris County Clerk
Houston
201 Caroline St, Houston, TX 77002
Dallas County Clerk
Dallas
509 Main St, Dallas, TX 75202
Bexar County Clerk
San Antonio
100 Dolorosa, San Antonio, TX 78205
Travis County Clerk
Austin
5501 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751
Cohabitation Agreement Costs in Texas
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | Texas standard rate: $6-$10 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in Texas |
| Sales Tax | 6.25% | Texas base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 1 witness | Single witness sufficient |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
Michael Chen, Esq.
Real Estate Law Consultant
Bar Certified, Real Estate Expert
Expert in property transactions and real estate documentation
This Cohabitation Agreement template for Texas has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
FAQ: Cohabitation Agreement in Texas
Is a Cohabitation Agreement required in Texas?
Yes, in Texas, a Cohabitation Agreement is required for most transactions of this type. Under Texas State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by at least one individual. Failure to use a proper Cohabitation Agreement may result in legal complications.
Does a Cohabitation Agreement need to be notarized in Texas?
Notarization requirements in Texas (TX) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $6-$10. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.
What are the tax implications of a Cohabitation Agreement in Texas?
Texas has a base sales tax rate of 6.25%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Cohabitation Agreement, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Texas tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Texas Cohabitation Agreement Legal Guide
For residents of Texas, ensuring this form is compliant with state-specific requirements is a top priority for legal validity.
Pursuant to Texas State Code in Texas, this Cohabitation Agreement must meet specific criteria. The applicable sales tax is 6.25%. Notarization, which costs $6-$10 in TX, may be required depending on the transaction type. 1 witness is needed.
Ensure your transaction is legally sound in Texas with this expertly crafted, state-compliant template.
Your Texas Filing Guide
After downloading, take your time filling in each section. TX statutes require that all information be accurate and current. Once signed by all parties, determine whether Texas requires you to file the document with a government office, record it with the county, or simply retain it for your records.
Legal Validity & Enforcement
Once properly executed, your Cohabitation Agreement is legally binding in Texas and enforceable in TX courts. The document remains valid indefinitely unless revoked or superseded. Texas courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable TX statutes.
Pro Tips for Texas Residents
- **Use blue or black ink** when signing physical copies in Texas
- **Keep digital backups** of all signed documents
- **Check for local county requirements** that may apply in addition to TX state law
- **Don't backdate** — Texas courts view backdated documents unfavorably
- **Consult an attorney** for transactions exceeding $10,000 in value
TX Compliance Checklist
Before finalizing your Cohabitation Agreement, verify that it meets Texas's legal standards:
- Full legal names and addresses of all parties
- Clear description of the subject matter
- Consideration or purpose stated explicitly
- Dated and signed by all required parties
- Notarized if mandated by TX statute
Once properly executed, your Cohabitation Agreement is legally binding in Texas and enforceable in TX courts. The document remains valid indefinitely unless revoked or superseded. Texas courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable TX statutes.
Pro Tips for Texas Residents
- **Use blue or black ink** when signing physical copies in Texas
- **Keep digital backups** of all signed documents
- **Check for local county requirements** that may apply in addition to TX state law
- **Don't backdate** — Texas courts view backdated documents unfavorably
- **Consult an attorney** for transactions exceeding $10,000 in value
TX Compliance Checklist
Before finalizing your Cohabitation Agreement, verify that it meets Texas's legal standards:
- Full legal names and addresses of all parties
- Clear description of the subject matter
- Consideration or purpose stated explicitly
- Dated and signed by all required parties
- Notarized if mandated by TX statute
Before finalizing your Cohabitation Agreement, verify that it meets Texas's legal standards:
- Full legal names and addresses of all parties
- Clear description of the subject matter
- Consideration or purpose stated explicitly
- Dated and signed by all required parties
- Notarized if mandated by TX statute
Other Forms in Texas
Cohabitation Agreement in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Cohabitation Agreement
- State
- Texas (TX)
- Category
- Personal
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 6.25%
- Notary Fee
- $6-$10
Texas Legal Requirements
Governing Statute:
State Law
- ✓Consult with a licensed attorney for specific requirements
Legal Disclaimer
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Texas may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.