Domestic Partner Policy

The University of Maine offers eligible domestic partners the opportunity for tuition waivers, coverage on the employee's health insurance, dental insurance, and various life insurance programs. Eligible partners are jointly responsible for each other's common welfare, share financial obligations, and share a primary residence.

The partners must submit a notarized Affidavit of Domestic Partnership to Kathleen Bell in the Office of Employee Health and Benefits. Supporting documentation, as noted on the Affidavit, must be included. As part of the Affidavit, the partners certify that they have resided together for at least six (6) continuous months prior to the date signed.

Please note that to the extent that coverage for a domestic partner is financed by the University, the employee is taxed on the fair market value of the coverage at group rates. The value of the coverage is reported as income on the employee's W-2 Form, and the University withholds Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA) on that imputed income. Nontaxable health and dental coverage can only be provided to an employee's legal spouse or dependent as defined Section 154 of the Internal Revenue Code. Please contact Kathleen Bell for information on the value of the insurance or for other information.

Employees agree to notify the University in writing within thirty-one (31) days of any termination of the domestic partnership. A written termination statement shall affirm that the partnership is terminated and that a copy of the termination statement has been mailed to the former partner. A former domestic partner is eligible for continued health coverage under CORBA.