[Skybluebrewer]

1. It is a 12 month de facto requirement. There is no requirement to have lived together for 12 months. Read info here.

2. The requirements to qualify must be met at the time of application. Do not think that you can use time after applying to add up missing relationship evidence. Not to mention an app can be looked at at any time.

3. What state do you live in? Registering the relationship may be a beneficial option.

 

[Skybluebrewer]

It's not just about considering yourself de facto for 12 months, you need to prove it with evidence. So if you feel your evidence isn't very strong for the full 12 months, registering can help you as it waives the 12 month requirement.