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Marriage

Marriage forms help couples make their union official and document their legal status. Choose attorney-drafted templates that are clear, current, and simple to complete online.

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What is Marriage?

Marriage legally unites two people as spouses, creating rights and responsibilities recognized by law. These documents include licenses, certificates, and agreements that confirm or govern the marriage. Select your state to find accurate, attorney-prepared marriage forms and applications.

Common Marriage documents

  • Application for Marriage License — Formal request to obtain permission to marry.
  • Marriage Certificate — Official record confirming that a marriage took place.
  • Marriage Affidavit — Written declaration confirming the existence of a marriage, often for benefits or legal proof.
  • Marriage Contract or Agreement — Defines financial or property terms between spouses.
  • Declaration of Marriage — Statement recognizing a marriage, sometimes used for common-law unions.
  • Certificate Request Form — Used to order a copy of a marriage certificate.
  • Marriage Registration Form — Records the marriage with local or state authorities.

Marriage forms by State

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Similar documents: key differences

  • Marriage License vs. Marriage Certificate — The license allows the ceremony; the certificate proves it occurred.
  • Marriage Contract vs. Prenuptial Agreement — Marriage contracts apply during the marriage; prenups apply before it.
  • Civil Marriage vs. Religious Marriage — Civil marriages are state-recognized; religious ceremonies may include faith-based traditions.
  • Common-Law Marriage vs. Formal Marriage — Common-law arises from cohabitation and intent; formal requires a license and ceremony.
  • Declaration of Marriage vs. Affidavit of Marriage — Both confirm marital status; wording depends on the purpose and jurisdiction.
  • Marriage Record vs. Marriage Certificate — A record includes official registration details; a certificate is the certified copy.

  • Marriage creates mutual legal duties and rights between spouses.

  • A marriage license is usually required before the ceremony.

  • The officiant must sign and return the license for the marriage to be recorded.

  • The marriage certificate becomes permanent proof of the union.

  • Name changes after marriage often use the marriage certificate as evidence.

  • Some states recognize common-law marriages under specific conditions.

  • Marriage laws and documentation vary by state but share common legal principles.

How to get started

Begin easily by following these steps.

  • Find the marriage form or package that fits your needs.
  • Review the document description, preview, and signing requirements.
  • Unlock full access with your subscription.
  • Fill out your forms quickly in the online editor.
  • Export or send — download, email, mail, notarize online, or e-sign (Premium).

Practical tip

Keep certified copies of your marriage certificate — they’re often needed for name changes, insurance, and tax updates.

FAQs

The license lets you marry; the certificate proves your marriage afterward.

In many states, yes. Online applications are usually followed by an in-person or video verification.

It can be, as long as the ceremony complies with state marriage laws and filing requirements.

Most expire after a set number of days if the marriage isn’t completed and recorded.

Yes, proof such as a common-law marriage affidavit or declaration may be required for legal recognition.

Glossary

  • Marriage License — Permission from the state to marry.
  • Marriage Certificate — Proof that the marriage took place.
  • Marriage Contract — Agreement setting marital terms or property rights.
  • Common-Law Marriage — Legal union formed without a ceremony.
  • Marriage Record — Official entry in state or county files.
  • Declaration of Marriage — Statement affirming a marital relationship.
  • Marriage Affidavit — Sworn proof of marriage.
  • Civil Marriage — Government-recognized marriage without religious ceremony.
  • Religious Marriage — Marriage performed by a religious officiant.
  • Certified Copy — Official duplicate of a legal record.

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