In New York City, a Domestic Partnership is a legal relationship registered with the City Clerk's office. When you register, the City Clerk gives you a Certificate of Domestic Partnership. There are a few ways to end a domestic partnership:
- You marry your domestic partner
- You or your domestic partner marry someone else
- You or your domestic partner file a Termination Statement
Ending a domestic partnership does not automatically resolve any legal or financial issues between partners. You may need to handle things like shared property, debts, or support agreements separately.
How to file a termination statement
- Download the Termination Statement form.
- Make an appointment to file. Fill out an online application at the City Clerk website. After completing the online form, you'll get a confirmation number and instructions for your in-person visit.
- Find your Certificate of Domestic Partnership. You'll need to bring this to your appointment. If you can't find your certificate, you can request a copy from the City Clerk's office before your appointment.
- Sign the Termination Statement form. You and your partner must sign the Termination Statement. If your partner won't sign, you must send them the form by Certified Mail, with Return Receipt requested. Bring the postal receipt as proof when you file.
- Remember your ID. Bring one of these valid IDs to your appointment:
- IDNYC
- Valid driver's license or non-driver ID from any U.S. state or territory
- Original birth certificate
- Passport
- Official school record
- U.S. Permanent Resident Card
- Employee ID card
- Prepare to pay the fee: It costs $27 to end a Domestic Partnership. You can pay by credit card or money order to the City Clerk.
- Go to your appointment. Arrive on time. If everything is in order, the clerk will process your termination. You'll receive a copy of the filed Termination Statement for your records. The termination is effective right away, unless you put a future date on the form.
Filing by mail (if you can't come in person)
If you can't file in person, send your form by Certified Mail. You must include:
- The completed and signed Termination Statement (If both partners didn't sign, include the certified return receipt showing you notified the other person)
- A letter explaining why you can't file in person (If you don't explain well, your request might be denied, and you'll need to file in person)
- A copy of your ID
- $27 money order to the City Clerk
- Mail everything to:
Office of the City Clerk
New York City Marriage Bureau
141 Worth Street
New York, New York 10013
Attention: Domestic Partnership Termination
Last Reviewed: August 26, 2024