Obtaining a marriage certificate in Massachusetts is an essential task for legal documentation and personal records. Whether you need it for legal purposes, genealogy, or personal use, this guide will help you understand the process of ordering a marriage certificate in Massachusetts.
Why You Might Need a Marriage Certificate
A marriage certificate is vital for various purposes:
- Proof of Marriage: Required for changing your name, applying for spousal benefits, or immigration purposes.
- Legal Documentation: Necessary for legal proceedings involving property, custody, or divorce.
- Personal Records: Important for genealogical research and personal archives.
What You Need to Order a Marriage Certificate
Before you begin the process, ensure you have the following information:
- Names of the Couple: Full names of both spouses as they appear on the certificate.
- Date and Place of Marriage: Exact date and location where the marriage took place.
- Proof of Identification: A government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Relation to the Subjects: If you are not one of the spouses, you may need to provide proof of your relationship.
Steps to Order a Marriage Certificate
- Online Ordering
- Visit the VitalChek website.
- Complete the required fields and upload your identification.
- Pay the fee of $54 for the first copy and $42 for each additional copy.
- Processing typically takes 7-10 business days, with expedited options available.
- By Phone
- Call the Registry of Vital Records and Statistics at (617) 740-2606 or toll-free at (866) 300-8535.
- Provide the necessary details and pay the fee over the phone.
- Note that research services are not available via phone.
- By Mail
- Download and complete the vital records mail order form.
- Include a check or money order payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
- Mail the form to:
Registry of Vital Records and Statistics 150 Mt. Vernon St., 1st Floor Dorchester, MA 02125 - Orders are processed within 30 business days. For expedited service (7-10 business days), mark your envelope for “Expedited Mail Service”.
- In Person
- Visit the Registry of Vital Records and Statistics at 150 Mt. Vernon St., 1st Floor, Dorchester, MA.
- Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
- Pay the fee of $20 per copy by check or money order.
Fees for Ordering a Marriage Certificate
The fees for ordering a marriage certificate vary depending on the method:
- Online or by Phone: $54 for the first copy, $42 for each additional copy.
- By Mail: $32 per copy.
- In Person: $20 per copy.
Make checks payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. For detailed fee information, refer to the Vital Records Service Fees.
What to Do if You Can’t Find Your Record
If the Registry cannot locate your marriage record, they will send you a Negative Statement. This document is necessary for establishing delayed records or further inquiries.
Making Your Marriage Certificate Usable Overseas
If you need to use your marriage certificate in a foreign country, you will likely need an apostille. An apostille certifies the authenticity of the document for international use. We recommend using BostonApostilleService.com for obtaining an apostille for your Massachusetts marriage certificate. They offer professional and efficient service to ensure your document is recognized overseas.
Important Considerations
- Restricted Access: Access to certain marriage records may be restricted to specific individuals or legal representatives.
- Genealogical Research: For genealogical purposes, you can access the State Archives for records from 1841-1930.
Conclusion
Obtaining a marriage certificate in Massachusetts is a crucial process for various legal and personal reasons. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and efficient experience. Whether you choose to order online, by phone, by mail, or in person, make sure to have all the necessary information and identification ready.
For more information and to begin your request, visit the Massachusetts Vital Records page. For apostille services, visit BostonApostilleService.com.
Ensure your important documents are properly handled with professional assistance.