[Oasfaa] Common Law Marriage Question

[Karen Jeffers]

We have two students who completed the FAFSA as either single or divorced.  Both were selected for verification.  When they submitted their verification worksheet and tax return they listed each other as "spouse."  Additionally, they filed their 2009 tax return as Married Filing Jointly.   They do live together and present themselves as husband and wife.

I have read that Oklahoma recognizes common law marriages that were entered into prior to November 1, 1998.  In 2005 there was a bill that proposed banning common law marriage, but it failed to pass.  The common law marriage 'concept' seems really ambiguous for relationships formed after November 1, 1998.  Some of what I have found indicates that Oklahoma 'could' and perhaps does still recognize a common law marriage entered into after Nov 1, 1998.  I'm no attorney so I have no clue how to interrupt this!!  I just want to know how the students should complete their FAFSA.

Are my students married to each other or are they single?

Thanks!
Karen


Karen Jeffers
Director of Financial Aid
Redlands Community College
1300 S Country Club Road
El Reno, OK 73036
405.422.1442 office
405.422.1463 fax


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Redlands Community College provides a learner-centered environment committed to academic excellence strengthened through service and civic engagement.
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