Unlocking Love: The Cost of a Marriage License in CT Revealed

Are you and your partner planning to tie the knot in Connecticut? As one of the smallest states in the US, Connecticut packs a big punch when it comes to romance and wedding destinations. But before walking down the aisle, there is one important detail that shouldn’t be overlooked – getting a marriage license. Whether you’re a resident or planning a destination wedding in the Constitution State, it’s crucial to understand how much a marriage license in CT will cost you. In this article, we’ll cover all the essential information you need to know about obtaining your marriage license, from fees to requirements and everything in between. So let’s get started on making your dream wedding in CT a reality!

Getting married is one of the most significant milestones in a person’s life. If you are planning to tie the knot in the state of Connecticut, you may be wondering how much a marriage license costs. In this article, we will discuss all the necessary information about obtaining a marriage license in CT and the associated fees.

What is a Marriage License?

A marriage license is a legal document that allows couples to get married in a particular state. It serves as proof that both parties meet all the requirements to enter into a legally recognized union. A marriage license is issued by the town or city clerk’s office in Connecticut and is valid for 65 days from the date of issue.

Who Can Apply for a Marriage License?

In Connecticut, either partner can apply for a marriage license as long as they are over 18 years old and not currently married to someone else. If either party is under 18 years old, written consent from their parent or legal guardian is required. There are also some special circumstances where minors can obtain a marriage license without parental consent, such as pregnancy or armed forces service.

What Documents Do I Need to Apply for a Marriage License?

To apply for a marriage license in Connecticut, both parties need to complete an application form, which can be found on the town or city clerk’s website or obtained in person at their office. You will need to provide proof of age and identity by presenting valid government-issued identification cards such as driver’s licenses or passports.

Non-U.S. citizens must also present their birth certificates and passports from their home country. If either party has been previously married, they will need to show proof of dissolution of their previous marriage (e.g., divorce decree or death certificate). Some towns may require additional documents, so it’s best to check with your local clerk’s office beforehand.

How Much Does a Marriage License Cost in Connecticut?

The fee for a marriage license in Connecticut is $50. This fee is non-refundable, even if the marriage does not take place. However, there may be additional charges for requesting certified copies of your marriage license.

Can I Get a Discount on the Marriage License Fee?

In certain cases, couples can receive an $11 discount on their marriage license fee if they meet specific requirements. To be eligible for the discount, one of the parties must have taken a premarital education, counseling, or therapy program that is recognized by the state of Connecticut. The program must be at least 8 hours and cover topics such as communication skills, conflict resolution, and financial management.

After completing the program, you will receive a certificate of completion that you can present to your town clerk’s office to get the discount. It’s important to note that this discount only applies to your first marriage and cannot be used in combination with any other discounts or promotions.

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut costs $50 and is valid for 65 days from the date of issue. Both parties must meet eligibility requirements and provide necessary documents to apply for a marriage license. Couples can also receive an $11 discount on their marriage license fee if they complete an approved premarital education program. We hope this information has been helpful in understanding how much a marriage license costs in CT and what you need to do to obtain one. Remember to check with your local clerk’s office for any additional requirements or fees before applying.

What is a marriage license and why is it required in CT?

A marriage license is a legal document that authorizes two individuals to get married in the state of Connecticut. It serves as proof that the couple has met all of the necessary requirements to enter into a marriage contract. This document is an essential part of the marriage process as it not only ensures that marriages are conducted legally, but also protects the rights and benefits of both parties.

In Connecticut, it is mandatory for couples to obtain a marriage license before their wedding day. This requirement may seem like an unnecessary added step, but there are several reasons why it is important. Firstly, a marriage license serves as evidence that both parties have consented to legally wed each other. It also allows the government to keep track of marriages within the state, ensuring that all marriages are conducted according to state regulations.

Moreover, a marriage license also has legal implications for both parties. By obtaining a marriage license, couples gain access to certain rights and benefits granted by the state. These include joint ownership of property acquired during the course of the marriage, filing joint tax returns, and being recognized as each other’s next-of-kin in case of emergency situations.

How much does a marriage license cost in CT?

The cost of obtaining a marriage license varies depending on which county you are getting married in. In Connecticut, each county has its own set fees for issuing this document. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $50 for a basic application fee.

However, do keep in mind that there may be additional fees involved when obtaining your marriage license. For example, some counties require couples to take premarital courses or undergo blood tests before issuing the license. These additional services come at an extra cost which may vary depending on where you go.

It’s always best to contact your local town or city clerk’s office to obtain the most accurate information on the cost of obtaining a marriage license in your specific county. They will be able to provide you with all the necessary information and guide you through the application process.

How do I apply for a marriage license in CT?

To obtain a marriage license in Connecticut, both parties must appear together at the local town or city clerk’s office. The application process is relatively straightforward and only takes about 15 minutes to complete. However, it’s best to arrive early as some offices may have long wait times.

You will be required to provide various forms of identification such as government-issued ID, birth certificates, and social security numbers. You will also need to fill out an application form which includes basic personal information such as your name, date of birth, and current address.

Once your application is complete, you will be issued your marriage license on the spot. Keep in mind that there is typically a waiting period before you can use your marriage license. In Connecticut, you must wait at least 24 hours after receiving your license before getting married.

What are the requirements for obtaining a marriage license in CT?

Apart from appearing together at the town or city clerk’s office and presenting valid identification documents, there are a few other requirements that must be met before being issued a marriage license in Connecticut.

Firstly, both parties must be 18 years or older to apply without parental consent. If one party is under 18 but over 16 years old, they can still get married with written consent from their parents or legal guardians.

Additionally, if one or both parties have been previously married but are now divorced or widowed, they must provide proof of this through their divorce decree or death certificate of their former spouse.

Moreover, as mentioned earlier, certain counties may require couples to undergo premarital courses or blood tests as part of the application process. It’s best to check with your local clerk’s office for any additional requirements.

Can non-residents get a marriage license in CT?

Yes, non-residents are eligible to obtain a marriage license in Connecticut as long as they meet all the necessary requirements. This includes presenting valid identification documents and paying the required fees. Keep in mind that the 24-hour waiting period still applies to non-residents, so plan accordingly if you are traveling to Connecticut to get married.

In conclusion, obtaining a marriage license is an important step in getting married in Connecticut. Not only does it serve as legal proof of your marriage, but it also provides access to various rights and benefits granted by the state. Make sure to follow all the necessary steps and requirements when applying for your marriage license to ensure a smooth and hassle-free wedding day.

Q: What is the cost of a marriage license in CT?

A: The cost of a marriage license in CT is $30.

Q: Is there a waiting period before obtaining a marriage license in CT?

A: Yes, there is a 24 hour waiting period after submitting the application for a marriage license.

Q: Can I pay for my marriage license with a credit card?

A: No, the CT Probate Court only accepts cash or check payments for marriage licenses.

Q: Do both partners need to be present when applying for a marriage license in CT?

A: Yes, both partners must appear in person at the CT Probate Court to apply for a marriage license.

Q: Are there any exceptions to the required documentation needed for a marriage license in CT?

A: Yes, if one partner has recently been divorced, they only need to provide their final divorce decree instead of their birth certificate and social security card.

Q: Do I need to be a resident of CT to obtain a marriage license?

A: No, you do not need to be a resident of CT. As long as you and your partner are eligible to get married under state law, you can apply for a marriage license in any town or city within Connecticut.

In conclusion, the process of obtaining a marriage license in Connecticut requires careful consideration and adherence to certain rules and regulations. From the required documentation to the application process and the associated fees, there are various factors that couples must keep in mind when planning to get married in the state.

Firstly, it is important for couples to determine which town or city they would like to get married in as this will determine where they need to apply for their marriage license. Then, they must ensure that they have all the necessary documentation ready, such as government-issued identification and any applicable divorce or death certificates.

The application process itself is fairly straightforward but requires both parties to be present at the town clerk’s office. It is also crucial for couples to plan ahead as there is a mandatory three-day waiting period before receiving the marriage license. Additionally, couples should keep in mind that the license expires after 65 days if not used within that time frame.

When it comes to the cost of a marriage license in Connecticut, it varies depending on whether both parties are residents of the state or not. Non-residents will have to pay an additional fee compared to residents. However, this cost is a small price to pay for embarking on a lifetime journey with your significant other.

On a final note,

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Kelsey Garrison

Kelsey Garrison, our esteemed author and a passionate writer in the world of weddings and bridal fashion, has been an integral part of our website since its inception.

With a rich history in creating engaging content, Kelsey has consistently brought fresh insights and valuable information to our readers.

Starting in 2024, Kelsey made a significant transition to focus specifically on the "Wedding/Bridal Fashion, Wedding Tips" niche. This shift was driven by her desire to delve deeper into the intricacies of wedding planning and bridal fashion—a field that blends timeless elegance with contemporary trends.

Her articles are meticulously researched and designed to provide thorough answers and innovative ideas for all things wedding-related.