what to do with marriage license after wedding ohio

2 min read 25-12-2024

what to do with marriage license after wedding ohio

Congratulations on your wedding! Now that the celebration is over, you might be wondering what to do with your Ohio marriage license. Don't just toss it in a drawer; this document is important for several reasons. This article will guide you through the proper steps to take after your Ohio wedding ceremony.

Understanding Your Ohio Marriage Certificate

The document you received isn't actually your marriage license. The license is the permission slip you obtained before the wedding. What you have after the wedding is your marriage certificate. This is the official record of your marriage. It's a crucial document you'll need for various legal and administrative purposes in the future.

What to Do With Your Marriage Certificate

After your wedding, your officiant will usually send the signed marriage license to the county clerk's office where the license was obtained. The county clerk's office then processes the information, and after a processing time which varies by county, your certified marriage certificate will be available.

1. Obtain Your Certified Marriage Certificate

Wait for Processing: Allow a few weeks for the county clerk's office to process your marriage license and issue the certified marriage certificate. The exact timeframe may vary.
Check the County Clerk's Website: Many county clerk's offices provide online tools to track the status of your certificate. Check your county's website for information on how to do this.
Request Your Certificate: Once processed, you can typically order copies of your marriage certificate from the county clerk's office. You might be able to do this online, by mail, or in person. There's usually a small fee involved.
Order Multiple Copies: Consider ordering several copies. You'll likely need them for various purposes, including changing your name, updating your driver's license, and applying for insurance benefits.

2. Update Your Important Documents

Once you have your certified marriage certificate, you'll need to update several essential documents:

Social Security Administration: If you're changing your last name, you'll need to update your Social Security card.
Driver's License/State ID: Change your name and address with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
Passport: Update your passport information if you've changed your name.
Banks and Financial Institutions: Notify your banks, credit card companies, and other financial institutions of your name change.
Employer: Inform your employer about your name change and provide necessary documentation.
Insurance Companies: Update your health, life, and other insurance policies.

3. Safe Storage

Keep your marriage certificate in a safe place. Consider storing a copy in a fireproof safe and/or scanning a copy for digital storage. This ensures you have access to a copy if the original is ever lost or damaged.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it take to get my Ohio marriage certificate?

A: Processing times vary by county, but generally allow 2-4 weeks for the county clerk's office to process and issue your certified marriage certificate.

Q: How much does it cost to get a copy of my Ohio marriage certificate?

A: The cost varies depending on the county. Check your county clerk's website for current fees.

Q: Can I get my marriage certificate online?

A: Many Ohio counties offer online ordering of marriage certificates. Check your county clerk's website to see if this is an option.

Q: What if I lost my marriage certificate?

A: You can obtain a replacement copy from the county clerk's office where the original license was issued.

This guide should help you navigate the process of obtaining and using your Ohio marriage certificate. Remember, it's a vital document—treat it accordingly! Congratulations again on your marriage!