What To Do With Your Marriage License After the Wedding
You’ve tied the knot, exchanged vows, and celebrated your big day, congratulations! But what happens next with that all-important marriage license? While the wedding may be over, ensuring your marriage is legally recognized is an essential post-wedding task. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you understand what to do with your marriage license after the wedding.
Marriage Certificate vs License
Before diving into the post-wedding process, it's important to clarify the distinction between a marriage license and a marriage certificate. You’ll need a certified marriage certificate for various official tasks, such as name changes and legal updates.
Marriage License: This is the legal document you obtained before your wedding, granting permission to get married.
Marriage Certificate: Once your officiant signs and submits the license, it becomes a marriage certificate, serving as proof of your marriage.
After your wedding ceremony, it’s the responsibility of your officiant to fill out and sign the marriage license. They must also ensure the witnesses (if required in your jurisdiction) have signed it. Double-check that all information is accurate and legible, as errors can delay the process. Your officiant will typically file the signed marriage license with the local government office, such as the county clerk or vital records office, to be officially recorded. This step must be completed within a specific timeframe, which varies by location (often within 30 days of the wedding). If you’re responsible for submitting the license yourself, ensure you deliver it promptly to avoid any complications.
What to Do With Your Marriage License
Once the marriage license is processed, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate. These are official copies with a raised seal, and they serve as legal proof of your marriage. It’s a good idea to get multiple certified copies, especially if you plan to change your name or update other legal documents. If you end up needing additional copies, visit the office where the license was filed, or check their website for instructions; you may need to fill out a request form and pay a fee.
Your certified marriage certificate is a crucial document for updating your personal and legal records. If you’re changing your last name, the marriage certificate is required for:
Updating your Social Security card (via the Social Security Administration).
Changing the name on your driver’s license or state ID.
Updating your passport.
Modifying bank accounts, credit cards, and other financial records.
Notify the IRS of your name change (using Form SS-5) and update your marital status for tax purposes. Additionally, update legal documents like your will, insurance policies, and property titles. If you plan to add your spouse to health insurance, retirement accounts, or other benefit plans, you’ll likely need to provide a copy of your marriage certificate.
Your marriage license may not be as glamorous as the wedding itself, but it plays a vital role in making your union legally official. Once you’ve completed the necessary updates, ensure you store your marriage certificate in a safe, secure place, such as a fireproof box or safe deposit box. This will make it easy to access if needed for future legal or personal purposes.
We’d love to help you plan your wedding day at Historic Acres of Hershey. Our unique property boasts multiple beautiful spaces. Give us a call at 717-298-6340 to learn more or contact us.