Table of Contents:
- Distinguishing Between Marriage Certificates and Marriage Licenses
- Why Do People Need Marriage Certificate Copies?
- Can You Get a Replacement Marriage Certificate?
- How Do I Replace a Lost Marriage Certificate?
Have you lost or misplaced your marriage certificate? If so, don’t worry. Many people cannot track down their marriage certificate, especially if your wedding happened a while ago.
However, you’ll likely encounter a time when you must present your marriage certificate. So, how do you replace a lost marriage certificate? Is it possible? Trust Vital Records Online. We are a company that assists people needing to track down and obtain certified copies of their vital records.
Regardless of why you can’t find the original, this situation can be problematic when dealing with matters requiring proof that you are or were married. Fortunately, replacing this vital record is fairly straightforward.
Keep reading to find out how to replace your marriage certificate.
Distinguishing Between Marriage Certificates and Marriage Licenses
Before you learn how to replace a marriage certificate, understanding the differences between a marriage license and a marriage certificate is vital.
A marriage license gives a couple the legal right to marry. People receive this document before their wedding ceremony. After this ceremony concludes, the newly married couple, their officiant, and witnesses sign the marriage license. Then, a couple turns in this license to receive their marriage certificate.
Why Do People Need Marriage Certificate Copies?
People need to replace marriage certificates for various reasons. As it turns out, there are more reasons than you might think regarding why people need copies of this document.;
- Name Change Purposes: Many people want to adopt their spouse’s last name after getting married. If so, you’ll have to present the original or a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
- Legal Matters: A certified copy of a marriage certificate is often required for divorce proceedings, immigration applications, estate-related matters, and other legal situations.
- Government Benefits: Marrying someone can enable both parties to have health and Social Security benefits as well as pensions.
- Financial Transactions: Mortgage lenders, banks, loan providers, and credit card companies sometimes require customers to present a marriage certificate when processing claims or updating account information.
Can You Get a Replacement Marriage Certificate?
Yes, you can replace a marriage certificate. While exact processes vary by state, county, and city, you should be able to obtain a copy of this marriage-related document as long as you meet eligibility requirements. Choose Vital Records Online (VRO) for a simple and secure way to obtain certified copies of vital records, including marriage certificates.
How Do I Replace a Lost Marriage Certificate?
Knowing you can get a replacement marriage certificate is important. It’s just as vital to learn the steps required to replace a marriage certificate.
1. Determine What Type of Copy You Need
The first step in replacing a marriage certificate is deciding whether you need an informational or certified copy. A certificated copy of a marriage certificate lets someone apply for benefits or change their name. That’s not possible with an informational copy.
There are many reasons why people need marriage certificate copies, including changing their names or applying for benefits. In these cases, they typically need certified copies of their marriage certificates.
2. Collect Your Supporting Information
You can help quicken the application process for a marriage certificate copy by having your necessary details ready. This information typically includes:
- Both spouses’ full names
- When the marriage happened
- The county and city where your marriage took place
- Valid forms of identification
- A payment to cover certificate copy fees
3. Submit Your Application
Typically, you have a few options regarding how to submit your request for a marriage certificate copy. You can replace a marriage certificate by mail, in person, or online. Because procedures and policies can vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, we recommend contacting the agency that issues the marriage-related certificate you need.
Of the three previously mentioned methods, most people prefer the convenience of applying for vital records online. However, that’s not possible in all jurisdictions. Your issuing agency should list what application methods applicants can utilize.
4. Receive Your Requested Copies
The final step is simple: wait for your marriage certificate. When you receive this crucial document typically depends on the workload of the issuing agency. Typically, in-person requests are best for those needing to replace this certificate right away. Mail-in and online applications may take several days to weeks until applicants get their certificate copies.
Don’t make the mistake of assuming your newly received document is correct. Double-check your marriage certificate copy to ensure all of its information is accurate.
Many people ask, “How do I replace a lost marriage certificate?” The answer is simple: choose VRO. Replacing a marriage certificate is easier with help from the experienced professionals at Vital Records Online (VRO). With our secure and trusted online platform, VRO makes it easy to locate and receive certified copies of vital records. Receive your certified marriage certificate promptly.