Use this information as a factor in the determination of whether a marriage was validly
entered into.
If the marriage occurred on or after the date in Column II, we will presume that the
marriage is valid as of the date it was celebrated.
The question of whether a particular marriage was validly celebrated is different
from the question of whether the law of the relevant state or territory recognized
the marriage. All states must permit same-sex marriage and recognize valid same-sex
marriages from other states.
1. When to request a legal opinion
If the date of marriage was not during a period when the state or territory (that
issued the marriage license) permitted same-sex marriages, request a legal opinion
per GN 01010.815.
For Title XVI claims, appeals, and post-eligibility actions, also refer to GN 00210.800.