There are two alternative methods for qualifying your same-sex or opposite-sex domestic partner as an "eligible dependent":
Alternative "A": Register your domestic partnership or civil union in accordance with registration requirements in the state in which you and your domestic partner or civil union partner reside. Your registration date is the first date you can enroll your partner as a domestic partner under the BP Medical Program; or
Alternative "B": Satisfy each of the following requirements for at least six full months before signing a Domestic Partner Affidavit. The date you are first eligible to sign the affidavit is the date your partner will be considered your domestic partner for plan purposes.
Be each other's sole domestic partner and intend to remain so indefinitely;
Reside together in the same principal residence and intend to remain so indefinitely;
Be emotionally committed to one another, share joint responsibilities for the partnership's common welfare and be financially interdependent;
Be at least 18 years old, of legal age and mentally competent to enter into contracts;
Not be related by blood closer than would bar marriage under applicable law where you live; and
Not be legally married to, nor the domestic partner of, anyone else.