Domestic Parnter Benefits

Domestic partners benefits have been become a common feature of employee compensation packages at companies across the United States. The traditional family, we all knew as we were growing up, has changed. We would like to propose our company join this growing trend and add domestic partner benefit coverage to our existing benefit package.

In order to best understand domestic partner benefits, it is best to define a domestic partner. Merriam -Webster online (2005) defines a domestic partner as either one of an unmarried heterosexual or homosexual cohabiting couple especially when considered as to eligibility for spousal benefits. Some companies require the relationship between these couples to last a defined period of time. Other employers require proof of the domestic partnership. (Mellon Financial, 2005).

If we choose to add domestic partner benefits to our compensation plan, we can set our own ground rules as to the specifics of our coverage. Our suggestion is to follow the model set by successful companies currently offering the coverage. We will need to make all employees requesting domestic partner benefit coverage, show proof of an existing relationship for a predetermined timeframe.

There are many benefits in our offering the domestic partner benefit coverage. As a growing company, we always want to remain competitive. Offering the coverage to domestic partners, not only shows our openness to hire and employ without prejudice, it shows we are a company willing to make changes to keep up with the lifestyles of 2005.

In offering benefit coverage to domestic partners we will have the benefit of retention of our good employees a domestic partnership. With domestic partner coverage now being offered in more than 40% of all Fortune 500 companies, including 70% of the top 50 businesses (Fitness and Wellness Week, 2004), we can join these top companies including Nike, IBM, American Express and Tower Records (Gemignani, 1999).

Interestingly, the Home Depot corporation offered pet insurance as part of their benefit package (Business Unusual, 2004). This included coverage for cats, dogs, potbellied pigs and chinchillas. Home Depot came under fire from Gay and Lesbian employees. Within one week, Home Depot offered domestic partner health benefits.

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