find a marriage certificate for free
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Marriage certificates are public information, so you can access the information if you are building your family tree, need a copy for your records, or require the information for research purposes. Generally, vital records of all kinds, including birth certificates, death records, and divorce decrees, are not available for years before 1900, and you will need to know the area where the marriage to place to get started.
Instructions
1
Find out the state or area where the marriage took place. The further you can narrow it down, the better.
2
Find the vital statistics office or municipal records department for that area. A quick search on the Internet will usually bring up the information. Be sure to look for their specific requirements and fees. Often, offices charge to give you a copy of the document, but they may confirm its existence for free.
3
Write a letter to the vital statistics office or municipal records department. Include the full names of both parties before the marriage, the date and location of the event, as well as the reason you are requesting the information. If you are uncertain about the names, add possible nicknames or alternate spellings that may have been used. List your name, contact information, driver's license number, and your relationship to the parties. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope, because some offices will not pay for postage on such requests.
4
Follow-up. If you haven't heard back after several weeks, you can call the office directly to ensure they're received your request and ask how long it will be until you receive an answer. Often it will takes weeks or months.
Tips &- Warnings
Be patient and courteous! Often, these offices are under-staffed and are not required to answer requests about genealogical investigations. Ask nicely, and express your thanks.
Don't submit more than one or two requests at a time to get a quicker response.
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