Benton County marriage licenses

In Benton County, a crucial step for soon-to-be newlyweds is securing the required marriage license.

Applicants need to appear in person for the application process, bringing valid government-issued photo IDs.

The cost for a marriage license is .00, and this fee is non-refundable. Benton County accepts cash, check, and credit/debit cards, but note that there is an additional 2.49% convenience fee for card transactions.

Applications can be initiated online before scheduling an in-person appointment to finalize the process. Both parties must be over 18 years old, with certain exceptions for minors. Additionally, there is a three-day waiting period after issuance before the license is valid, although this can be waived for an additional fee of .00.

Marriage licenses become effective three days after issuance and remain valid for 60 days. Certified copies of marriage certificates are available for .00 each.

Post-Marriage Procedures

After the marriage takes place, the completed license must be returned to the County Clerk’s office to obtain an official certified copy. This can also be pre-purchased during the application for a reduced fee.

In addition to the official document, a decorative marriage certificate will be provided to the couple, which serves as a commemorative gesture.

Name Change Options

Benton County also allows for name changes following a marriage. Newlyweds can choose to keep their existing names, change to their spouse’s name, or combine their last names with or without a hyphen. These changes are limited and do not require a court order. Any other name change will require prior court approval.

Services and Availability

Benton County records include birth and death records from 1880 and marriage records from 1856. The Recorder’s office can provide certified copies of these records, as well as plain paper copies for genealogical purposes at a nominal fee.

Domestic Partnerships

Benton County also recognizes domestic partnerships, which are available to two individuals aged 18 or over, one of whom must be a county resident. The registration process resembles the marriage license procedure, and domestic partnerships carry similar validity and restrictions.

Additional Information

It is essential for couples to be aware of these details before planning their wedding:

All documents, including certificates and copies, require proper notarization and valid photo IDs.
Tabulation fees and procedures vary among counties.
Some counties offer online application systems, while others require in-person visits.
Fees and waiting periods differ between counties and states.

Convenience and Efficiency

By understanding these county-specific regulations, couples can ensure a seamless licensure process, saving them time and effort for the truly important preparations for their big day.