Common law marraige

[RLymanC]

A couple moves to California after living in a common law state that consideres them
married and files a joint return. California absolutely, positively will allow a joint return.

Question: Is there a choice?
Question: How do you disolve a common law marriage?

Could each file single if not living togeather in CA during the last six months? Or would MFS be mandatory for each. (no children)

[Bird Legs]

Common Law Marriage

They would have to file MFS. Once the clients have put themselves out to be married,
and filing a Joint Return does that, then they are married. To divorce they would have
to go through all the legalities just like any other married couple.