So, you're getting married! Congratulations! Between planning the perfect ceremony, choosing the right dress or suit, and coordinating vendors, it's easy to overlook some of the smaller, but equally crucial details. One of the most important of these is obtaining and properly completing your marriage license. Without it, your marriage isn't legally recognized, which can lead to complications down the road. From taxes and insurance to inheritance and even just officially changing your name, a valid marriage license is the foundation of your married life in the eyes of the law.
Filling out a marriage license application might seem straightforward, but even a minor mistake can cause delays or even require you to re-apply. Each state, and sometimes even individual counties, has specific requirements and procedures. Understanding these nuances can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress during what should be a joyful time. Taking the time to complete the application accurately ensures your marriage is legally sound and protects your rights as a married couple.
What information do I need to provide, and what common mistakes should I avoid?
What's my legal name for the license?
Your legal name for the marriage license is the name that appears on your official government-issued identification, such as your driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. It’s crucial to use this exact name to ensure the marriage license is legally valid and that your marriage is properly recorded.
When completing the marriage license application, discrepancies between the name you provide and the name on your identification documents can cause delays or even rejection of the application. This is because the marriage license is a legal document, and accuracy is paramount. If your name on your ID differs due to a previous marriage, adoption, or other legal name change, you may need to provide certified copies of the court orders or relevant documents that legalized the change to prove your current legal name. Remember to double-check all spellings and ensure they match your official ID exactly. This includes any middle names or initials. Even minor errors, such as a misspelled last name or a missing middle initial, can create problems later on when you're updating other important documents, such as your social security card or driver's license, after the marriage.Where do I list my parents' information?
You will typically list your parents' information in the section of the marriage license application specifically designated for parental details. This section usually appears after your and your future spouse's personal information, like names, addresses, and dates of birth.
The required information usually includes your parents' full legal names (including maiden names for mothers), their dates and places of birth, and sometimes their current addresses. Be prepared to provide this information for both your parents and your future spouse's parents. Providing accurate information is crucial, as errors can cause delays or even invalidate the license.
If one or both of your parents are deceased, you'll still need to provide their information. The application will likely have a space to indicate that a parent is deceased. If you are adopted, you may be asked to provide information about your adoptive parents, and the specific requirements might vary depending on the state. Always check the specific instructions provided with the marriage license application for detailed guidance.
What if I don't have my social security number?
If you don't have a Social Security number (SSN), you'll generally need to explain why on the marriage license application. Many states require it for statistical purposes related to marriage and divorce rates, but accommodations are usually made for individuals who are not eligible for one or prefer not to disclose it.
The specific procedure depends on the state or county where you're applying. In most cases, you'll be given the option to indicate that you don't have an SSN. Some applications will have a dedicated checkbox for this purpose. If there isn't a specific field, include a brief explanation in any provided notes or 'other information' section. You may be asked to provide documentation explaining why you don't have an SSN, such as proof of non-immigrant status if you are a foreign national not authorized to work in the United States.
It's important to remember that providing false information on a marriage license application is a serious offense. If you are eligible for an SSN but simply don't know it, you should apply for one through the Social Security Administration (SSA) before applying for the marriage license. Information on how to apply can be found on the SSA's website (ssa.gov). If you are unsure whether you are required or eligible for an SSN, it's best to seek legal advice before completing the marriage license application.
How do I correct a mistake on the form?
The best practice for correcting a mistake on a marriage license application is to draw a single line through the incorrect information, write the correct information neatly beside it, and initial and date the correction. Do not use white-out or attempt to completely erase the error, as this can invalidate the form.
Different jurisdictions have varying levels of strictness regarding corrections. Some might allow minor corrections with initials, while others might require a completely new form if the error is deemed significant, especially if it pertains to legal names, dates of birth, or places of birth. Therefore, it's always best to fill out the form carefully and double-check all information before submitting it. If you're unsure about whether a correction is acceptable or if the mistake is substantial, contact the county clerk's office or the office issuing the marriage license for clarification. They can advise you on the proper procedure based on their specific requirements. Trying to hide or heavily obscure an error could lead to delays or even rejection of your application, so transparency is key.Who signs the marriage license after the ceremony?
After the wedding ceremony, the marriage license is typically signed by the couple getting married, the officiant who performed the ceremony, and often one or two witnesses. All signatures must be legible and match the names printed on the license.
The specific requirements for who needs to sign a marriage license can vary slightly by state or jurisdiction, so it is always a good idea to confirm the rules in the location where the marriage is taking place. The officiant usually takes responsibility for ensuring that the license is completed correctly and returned to the appropriate government office within the stipulated timeframe. The couple should verify that the officiant has handled the process correctly as well, to avoid potential complications in the future.
The signatures serve as legal attestation that the marriage ceremony was performed and that the couple legally consented to be married. Incorrect or missing signatures can potentially invalidate the marriage license, so careful attention to detail is important. If errors are discovered after the ceremony, it is crucial to contact the issuing office immediately to determine how to rectify the situation.
What do I do with the license after it's signed?
After the marriage license is signed by you, your spouse, and the officiant, it's crucial to return it to the issuing county clerk's office (or vital records office, depending on your jurisdiction) within the timeframe specified on the license. This step officially records your marriage, and failure to do so can invalidate it.
Once the ceremony is complete and the license has been signed by all required parties, the responsibility typically falls on the officiant to return the completed license. However, confirm with your officiant and the county clerk's office regarding who is responsible for returning the license. Some jurisdictions allow the couple to return it themselves, while others strictly require the officiant to do so. Be sure to adhere to the stipulated timeframe for returning the license, as exceeding this limit can render the marriage invalid and necessitate reapplication. After the license is received and processed by the county clerk's office, a marriage certificate is generated, which serves as the official record of your marriage. You can usually request certified copies of the marriage certificate for various legal and administrative purposes, such as updating your name on official documents, applying for insurance benefits, or for immigration purposes. Check with the county clerk's office regarding the process for requesting certified copies, associated fees, and acceptable forms of payment.Is a witness signature required?
The requirement for witness signatures on a marriage license varies depending on the jurisdiction (state, county, or even city) where the marriage is taking place. Some locations mandate one or two witnesses, while others do not require any.
Many jurisdictions that previously required witnesses have removed this requirement in recent years. This is often due to streamlining the marriage process and recognizing that the primary parties involved are the couple getting married. However, it's crucial to consult the specific laws and regulations of the location where you are applying for your marriage license. These laws are usually available on the county clerk's website or by contacting their office directly. Failure to comply with local requirements can result in the marriage license being rejected, and therefore, the marriage not being legally recognized. Even if witness signatures are not strictly required, some couples choose to include them as a symbolic gesture. This can be a way to involve close friends or family members in the celebration and to create a more meaningful keepsake of the occasion. If you choose to do this in a jurisdiction where witnesses are not required, it's essential to ensure that the additional signatures do not invalidate the license in any way. Consult with the issuing office to confirm the proper procedure.And that's all there is to it! Filling out your marriage license might seem a little daunting, but with a little preparation, you'll be well on your way to saying "I do." Thanks so much for stopping by, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding! We hope you'll come back and visit us again soon for more helpful tips and advice as you plan your big day.