In California - is a Church Marrage certificate - not ratified by the local government - a legal document ?

Question

Married in the Church, however, no government documents - are we legally married?

Answer 1

Churches do not have the authority to issue marriage licences. This is done through the Courthouse. I do not believe you are 'legally" married.

Answer 2

No; a legal marriage constitutes a properly drawn and filed for public record marriage license signed by a recognized officant. Anything else is a grey area

Answer 3

I doubt it.  You can probably apply to get "significant other" benefits from your employer, but I don't think you will be able to get the tax breaks.

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