Embarking on the journey of marriage is one of life's most exciting adventures. However, amidst the romance and celebration, couples often overlook the administrative side of tying the knot, which includes various fees that can add up surprisingly. This guide will walk you through five hidden fees of marriage paperwork that you might encounter. We'll ensure you're not caught off guard when dealing with these unexpected costs.
Marriage License Fee
Even before you can say “I do,” you’ll need to obtain a marriage license. This fee varies widely by state and can surprise many:
- In California, you might pay anywhere from 70 to 100.
- Massachusetts’ fee ranges from 20 to 50.
- Texas has a standard fee of $74.
🔍 Note: If you’re on a tight budget, consider getting your license in a state with lower fees, but remember, you might need to adhere to the residency and waiting period rules there.
Preparation of Marriage Certificate
Once married, the officiant or wedding officiate needs to prepare and file your marriage certificate:
- Certified copies of this certificate, which you’ll need for name changes and more, can cost from 5 to 20 each.
- States like Illinois have an additional fee for expedited processing.
Name Change Fees
Changing your surname, if you decide to, comes with its own set of fees:
- Driver’s license name change fee can be between 10 to 25.
- Social Security card name change costs around 10 to 20.
- Each passport change might cost you 110 or more.</li>
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<p>Keep in mind that if you miss any of these fees, you could be subject to additional costs or delays:</p>
<table>
<tr>
<th>Document</th>
<th>Fee Range</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Passport</td>
<td>110+
Social Security Card
10-20
Driver’s License
10-25
💡 Note: Depending on your state, some name changes can be free if you are a victim of domestic abuse, so check with local authorities.
Certified Marriage Certificate Copies
You might need several copies of your marriage certificate for legal purposes:
- The initial fee can be around 5 to 25.
- Additional copies often cost the same or more.
Divorce Preparation Costs
Even though no one plans to get divorced, understanding potential costs can help you be prepared:
- Filing fees for divorce range from 70 to 400.
- Additional legal and mediation costs can add up quickly.
As we've seen, marriage is not just about love and commitment; it's also about navigating various administrative fees. Being aware of these costs allows you to plan better, potentially save money, and avoid surprises. With this knowledge, you can focus on the joy and planning of your nuptials, prepared for the practicalities that come with this monumental life change. From obtaining your marriage license, preparing marriage certificates, changing names, securing certified copies, to even considering the unlikely event of divorce, these fees can accumulate. But with careful planning, couples can keep these expenses in check, ensuring their journey into marriage begins on the right financial footing.
What happens if I forget to pay for a certified marriage certificate copy?
+Without these certified copies, you might face delays or additional costs when you need to prove your marriage status, such as for name changes or legal procedures.
Can I get married without paying for the marriage license?
+No, a marriage license is legally required for a marriage to be recognized. Skipping this fee invalidates your marriage.
How can I reduce name change fees?
+Plan ahead to change all documents simultaneously or explore if your state offers any exemptions. Some states waive fees for name changes if it’s due to marriage.
