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Index/Topics/Common-Law Marriages

Common-Law Marriages

The recognition and verification of common-law marriages for Social Security survivor benefits.

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Jan 18, 2026
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How do Social Security and pension administrators verify an informal marriage for survivor benefits?

Social Security verifies informal (common‑law or non‑ceremonial) marriages by requiring the applicant to prove a legally valid marriage under applicable state law and by collecting documentary and swo...

Jan 24, 2026
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What documentation or verification will Social Security beneficiaries need to get the payment?

Regular generally require no new paperwork from existing beneficiaries who are already enrolled and receiving funds by direct deposit or mailed checks; the agency’s recent moves focus on stronger iden...