So You're Tying the Knot in Boston: How to Get Your Marriage License Without Saying "I Do" to Frustration
Congratulations! You've found your lobster (or maybe your better half, if you're not a Friends fanatic). Now comes the nitty-gritty: the paperwork. But fear not, lovebirds! Getting your marriage license in Boston is easier than parallel parking a chowdah truck on a snowy day. Well, almost.
How To Get Your Marriage License In Boston |
Step 1: Scheduling Your Appointment - Don't Be That Couple Crashing City Hall
First things first, you need to schedule an appointment with the Boston City Clerk's office. Walk-ins are a thing of the past, so don't show up at City Hall with hearts aflutter and hope in your eyes, only to be turned away like a swan rejected by its reflection. Head to the City of Boston website and use their online booking application to snag a time slot.
Tip: Compare what you read here with other sources.
Pro Tip: Be flexible! Appointment times can fill up fast, so consider a weekday morning if you're both free. Nobody wants to argue over who gets to miss mimosa brunch with the bridesmaids.
Tip: Make mental notes as you go.
Step 2: The Pre-Marital Prep Work - Paper Cuts are a Sign of True Love (Just Kidding)
While you wait for your appointment, gather your documents like a squirrel preparing for winter. Here's what you'll need:
Tip: Break long posts into short reading sessions.
- Valid ID for both of you: Think driver's licenses, passports, or state IDs. Basically, anything that screams "Yes, we're real people, not imposters planning a wedding scam!"
- Your Social Security numbers: But hey, if you don't have one, no worries. Just explain why in writing.
- Your birth certificates: Proof that you both magically appeared on this earth at some point (and are old enough to get hitched, of course).
Fun Fact: Did you know a three-day waiting period is mandatory after you apply? So technically, you can have a pre-wedding second thoughts meltdown for 72 hours. Just sayin'.
Tip: Reading in chunks improves focus.
Step 3: The Big Day (But Not That Big Day) - Applying for Your License
The moment of truth! Head to City Hall on your appointed day and get ready to be showered with... paperwork. But don't worry, the City Clerk's office will guide you through the process. You'll fill out a fancy form called a Notice of Intention of Marriage. Think of it as your official "We're getting married, deal with it!" announcement to the state.
Remember: Once you get your license, it's only valid for 3-60 days. So don't wait too long to say "I do," unless you're into the whole "reapplying for a marriage license" thrill.
Congratulations! You're Licensed to Wed (But Not to Drive a Zamboni)
With your marriage license in hand, you're one step closer to wedded bliss! Now you can focus on the real fun stuff: picking out the perfect cake, arguing over the guest list with your families, and freaking out about the weather on your wedding day. Easy peasy, right?
FAQ:
- How much does a marriage license cost? A steal! It's only $30.
- Can we get married outside of Massachusetts with a Boston license? Nope, your license is only valid in the state.
- What if one of us can't make the appointment? In special cases (like military service or hospitalization), contact the Massachusetts Secretary of State's office for guidance.
- Do we need witnesses? Nope, no witnesses are required to apply for the license. But you will need them for the actual ceremony.
- Can we elope with the license and get married right away? Hold your horses! There's still a 3-day waiting period after you get the license.