Texas does recognize informal marriages (called “common law marriage”) but there are some rules. You are not married just because you lived together a long time.
Basic rules before your uncommon marriage is recognized:
- Did you agree to be married?
- Did you live together in Texas as married people.
- Did you represent to others you were married (were you “holding out” that you were married?)
If you are married, then this creates legal rights and responsibilities along with property division, inheritance, and other things. It doesn’t create these rights if you are not married though.
Go ahead and get “officially” married if you have any question. It will create way more clarity.