I lived with my boyfriend for 20 years in New Jersey. He recently died. Am I entitled to his social security benefits? We have a child together who is 25 years old. I can prove his residency with me for all those years.

Lnjd, first let me extend my deepest condolences on your loss.

In my research I found that common law marriage has not been recognized in NJ since 1939. Unfortunately, without being legally married, you are unable to collect on your boyfriend's social security. I am sorry.

I also want to express my sympathy for the death of your companion.

People often think that because they live together for over seven years that it automatically qualifies as "common law". Am deeply sorry that this was not the case for you.

I am sorry, many places don't reconise any common law status and others require things like use of last name, joint checking accounts and proof that one was referred to as wife or husband.

But again many places don't reconise common law status at all, for any inheritance and also for government benefits.

I don't believe you are entitiled to anything. Also if there is not a will, it is very likely you will also not inherit any property. ( I hope all things were in joint names)

This is why I have always stressed the importance beyond bibical for people to get married.