Civil unions and marriages are legal arrangements that provide couples with certain legal rights and benefits. However, the legal distinctions between the two can often be confusing for individuals considering the best option for their situation. Here, we examine the legal differences between civil unions and marriages concerning the rights and benefits they offer.

1. Federal Benefits:

One of the most significant differences between civil unions and marriages is that only marriages are recognized by the federal government. This recognition grants couples in a marriage several federal benefits, including Social Security, tax benefits, military and veteran benefits, and immigration rights that are not available to couples in civil unions.

2. State Recognition:

While marriage is recognized in all states across the US, civil unions are only legally recognized in some states. States that have legalized civil unions have varying degrees of benefits and protections for couples in them. Additionally, civil … Read the rest >>>