say you do get married by 12/31. he still has to consent to the filing of a joint return. otherwise both would have to file as married filing separate.
one more twist. a few states recognize common law marriages. However, each of these states have specific criteria that must be met for it to be recognized.
for example - in Utah - a written agreement between the parties. certain other criteria that must be met. finally going to court to have the "marriage" validated
