So you need a copy of your Philly marriage certificate, huh?
Let's face it, unearthing that dusty marriage certificate isn't exactly most people's idea of a thrill-a-minute activity. But fear not, weary lovebirds (or maybe just one of you), because this guide is about to turn your certificate quest into a victory lap... well, almost.
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| How To Get A Copy Of Marriage Certificate In Philadelphia Pa |
Hunting down your happily ever after (on paper): Here's the lowdown
Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love (and, apparently, bureaucratic hurdles), keeps your marriage certificate tucked away in the safekeeping of the Register of Wills. Don't let the name fool you, they're not here to draft your last will and testament (unless things are really bad).
There are two main ways to snag that piece of paper proving you said "I do" and not "I double dog dare you":
Channel your inner Indiana Jones (minus the fedora): Head down to the Marriage Record Department at City Hall. They're open Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4 pm, ready to greet you with a smile (hopefully) and a stack of paperwork.
Conquer the couch potato within: If venturing out feels like scaling Mount Everest, you can request your certificate by mail. Fill out the marriage record request form you'll find on the City of Philadelphia website ([find and request a marriage record ON City of Philadelphia (.gov) phila.gov]) and mail it in with your fee (more on that later). Easy peasy, lemon squeezy.
Important side note: Whichever method you choose, you'll need to provide some proof that you're entitled to see the certificate. This could be a driver's license, passport, or anything else that screams "I'm one of those people who got married."
Tip: Focus more on ideas, less on words.
The moolah situation: How much will this marital masterpiece cost?
Here's the not-so-fun part: There's a fee involved. But hey, at least it's not your wedding bill, right?
- A certified copy (the most common type) will set you back a cool $25.
- If you need an exemplified copy (used for some legal purposes), that'll be $50.
Pro tip: They only accept checks or money orders made payable to the "Clerk of Orphans' Court". Cash? Forget about it.
The waiting game: How long will it take?
Patience is a virtue, my friend. After you submit your request, it usually takes 7-10 business days for your certificate to arrive by mail. So, channel your inner zen master and avoid refreshing your mailbox every five minutes.
QuickTip: Slow scrolling helps comprehension.
Frequently Asked Questions (for the forgetful lovebirds):
How to find a marriage record request form?
Head to the City of Philadelphia website and search for "marriage record request form". You'll be a document-downloading pro in no time!
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How to pay for the certificate?
Tip: Patience makes reading smoother.
Cash is a no-go. Get yourself a check or money order made payable to "Clerk of Orphans' Court".
How long does it take to get the certificate?
Try to cultivate some inner peace. It usually takes 7-10 business days to arrive by mail.
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
How much does a certified copy cost?
A certified copy will lighten your wallet by $25.
How much does an exemplified copy cost?
For an exemplified copy, you'll be looking at $50.
There you have it! With this guide, getting your hands on your Philadelphia marriage certificate should be a breeze (or at least a gentle zephyr). Now go forth and conquer that marital paperwork mountain!
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