What must be true for a couple to qualify property as community property?

For property to be classified as community property in California, a crucial requirement is that the couple must be legally married. Community property is defined as all property acquired during the marriage while both partners are legally married. This concept stems from the legal framework in California that views both spouses as equal partners in the acquisition of property throughout the marital relationship.

This classification is important because it means that any income earned and property acquired during the marriage is typically considered jointly owned, regardless of which spouse's name is on the title or who financed the purchase. Thus, even if one spouse financially contributed more towards the acquisition, as long as they are legally married, all property earned during the marriage generally falls under community property rules.

The other options highlight scenarios that do not meet the necessary legal criteria for classification as community property, such as title deed requirements, primary residence stipulations, and financial contributions, which are not determinative on their own without the legal marriage status.