Home · Blog · Marriage Bureau : Secure Your Certified Marriage Certificate Now — Especially If You Self-Returned the Court Copy

 

certified copy of the marriage license

 

Secure Your DC Certified Marriage Certificate Now!

I dedicate this blog to those who opt to self-return the court’s marriage certificate marked “Return”.


Court Return Deadlines

The court marriage license return is due back in the clerk’s office within:

  • DC: 10 business days

 


Why You May Need a Certified Copy of Your Marriage License

  • Name Change

  • Joint Income Tax Returns

  • REAL ID or Driver’s License Update

  • Estate Planning and Inheritance

  • Legal Name Change

  • Social Security Benefits

  • Health Insurance Enrollment or Spousal Coverage

  • Immigration or Visa Petitions

  • Pension or Survivor Benefits

  • Property Deeds or Mortgage Records

  • Adoption or Guardianship

  • Passport Renewal or Travel Documents

Even if you never change your last name, securing a certified copy ensures your marriage is properly recorded and recognized for all future legal and personal matters.


Final Word

I’m not a lawyer, but not returning the COURT RETURN of the marriage license does not nullify the marriage.
Consult with a lawyer for the correct answer.

 

📜 Need help with DC marriage license rules or ceremony planning?
Visit How to Get Married in DC for expert officiant services, FAQs, and planning tools.

💌 Let us help make your ceremony official and memorable.

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