Common-Law Marriage

A common-law marriage is a type of marriage recognized in some U.S. states, even without a marriage license or ceremony.Under common law, a couple can be considered legally married if they live together for a significant period, present themselves as a married couple, and meet the state’s specific requirements.In other words, even without an official…

As of 2025, the following U.S. states still recognize or conditionally recognize common-law marriage: A few other states, such as Alabama and Georgia, only honor common-law marriages formed before specific cutoff dates in the past.