Section 1540.110  Marriage Verification

a)         Proof of Marriage

1)         Applicants claiming benefits as a surviving spouse must submit proof of marriage.  Documents acceptable as proof of marriage are:

A)        A copy of the public record of marriage.

B)        A copy of the religious record of the marriage.

C)        In the case of a common-law marriage if none of the above documents are available, other relevant evidence may be submitted.

2)         If no such records exist, the following may be submitted for consideration:

A)        A notarized statement from the individual who performed the marriage.

B)        Notarized statements from at least two individuals in attendance of the marriage.

C)        Certification from the Social Security Administration of acceptance of the marriage and date.

b)         Proof of Dissolution or Invalidity of Marriage.

            The only document acceptable as proof of dissolution or invalidity of marriage is a certified copy of the declaration of decree from a court of law.

(Source:  Added at 4 Ill. Reg. 12, p. 530, effective March 11, 1980)