How Much Does It Cost to Tie the Knot in Texas? (Spoiler: It's Cheaper Than a Decent Pair of Jeans)
So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and join the hallowed institution of matrimony. Congratulations! Now, let’s talk about the less romantic, but equally important aspect of this union: the cost. Specifically, let’s talk about the price tag of that little piece of paper that officially declares your love to the world: the Texas marriage license.
The Price is Right (or is it?)
You might be surprised to learn that getting hitched in the Lone Star State is actually pretty affordable. Unlike some states where you might need to sell a kidney to cover the cost, Texas keeps things relatively simple. The base price for a marriage license in Texas is a modest $60. Yes, you read that right. For less than the cost of a fancy dinner, you can legally bind yourself to another human being for the rest of your life.
But wait, there’s more!
If you’re feeling extra frugal (or just really love learning), you can actually get a discount on your marriage license. By completing a pre-marital education course, you can knock a whopping $60 off the price. That’s right, free marriage license! Who knew love and learning could be such a profitable combination?
But Wait, There’s a Catch!
Of course, there’s always a catch. While the base price is $60, some counties may tack on an additional fee. It’s like a sneaky little surcharge that pops up when you’re about to check out at the grocery store. So, while you might be able to get married for $60 in one county, you could end up paying closer to $85 in another. It’s a bit like real estate: location, location, location.
Other Costs to Consider
Now, while the marriage license itself might be cheap, don’t forget about the other expenses that come with tying the knot. There’s the venue, the dress (or suit), the food, the drinks, the flowers, the photographer, the DJ, the honeymoon… the list goes on and on. So, while you might be saving money on the license, you might end up spending a small fortune on everything else. But hey, love is worth it, right?
How to...
- How to find the cost of a marriage license in your specific county: Check the website of the county clerk's office where you plan to get married.
- How to get a discount on your marriage license: Complete a pre-marital education course approved by the state of Texas.
- How to prepare for other wedding expenses: Create a detailed budget and prioritize your spending.
- How to keep your sanity during wedding planning: Remember to take breaks, delegate tasks, and enjoy the process.
- How to have a happy marriage: Communication, compromise, and a sense of humor are key.