If you have been living together 12 continuous months or more then you are common-law (and the only way it is not 'continuous' is if your spend 90 consecutive days living apart). There is no choice involved.
Common things that marriage affect can be seen here. (note: this doesn't mention GST Credit or the Child Tax Benefit which are also affected). Look for anything that depends upon Family Income, and that is what filing common-law will have an impact upon.
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