Although the phrases "marriage license" and "marriage certificate" may appear to be interchangeable, the two papers are legally very distinct. You'll be better prepared for what happens before and after you exchange your vows if you grasp the distinctions between the two agreements.
What is the meaning of a marriage license?
Prior to your marriage ceremony, you must obtain a marriage license. It is, very literally, the document that allows you to marry. Most states in the United States have their own rules for obtaining this approval. To qualify for a marriage license in most places, you must both be over the age of 18. Other states will have their own set of rules. Marriage licenses are valid for 30 days in some states and up to one year in others. Before applying for a marriage license, be sure you understand the regulations of the state where you want to marry.
What is the meaning of a marriage certificate?
A marriage certificate verifies that you are indeed married. The wedding officiant in the county where your marriage ceremony took place usually signs the marriage certificate. The following information is confirmed by the certificate:
That you married in accordance with local laws.
The ceremony was seen by a number of people.
Prior to the wedding, you provided a legitimate marriage license.
In most counties, you should receive an official copy of the certificate within two to four weeks, while it may take up to eight weeks in some counties.
Once you've married, you'll need this document. It serves as legal proof of your marital status. You'll need it in the following situations, as well as possibly a few others.
After the wedding, you can change your name.
For tax purposes, to claim legal married status.
To be eligible for Medicaid benefits.
To apply for lawful immigration or a Green Card.
Because you may require your marriage certificate on a regular basis during your married life, it's a good idea to get numerous copies for your personal records and keep them on hand.
What Is the Process for Obtaining Copies of Your Marriage Certificate?
You'll want to know how to order several copies of your marriage certificate since it's a good idea. The most straightforward option is to go to the county clerk's office in the county where the ceremony took place. You can, however, purchase copies of your marriage certificate online if this is not possible. You may be able to do this directly in some counties.
This is a legal document that should be handled with care and kept safely in your house. If your ceremony crosses international borders, you may need to have copies of the documents translated so that they can be used as proof of marriage in both countries.
It's critical to realize that both documents are critical to the marriage procedure. You can't get married unless you have a marriage license, and you can't prove you're married unless you have a marriage certificate.
When Getting Married Online, How Does the Process Work?
Some counties in the United States allow for online marriages. You do not, however, have to live in those counties to get married online. You can apply for a marriage license from anywhere in the world, have an online wedding via Zoom, and have the wedding officiant register your marriage with the county clerk's office. For your marriage to be legally recognized and binding, you only need the following:
A marriage license that is valid.
A legally binding wedding ceremony (according to the laws of the state where the license is issued).
The marriage is registered in the county.
A marriage certificate issued in accordance with state regulations.
Virtual Wedlock keeps track of the legal process every step of the way, allowing you to relax and focus on your new life together rather than stressing the small stuff.
Comments