Marriage records carry significant value as they not only serve as an official documentation of a union but also have numerous legal purposes, such as changing one's name, applying for spousal benefits, and more. Understanding "how to get" West Virginia marriage records, the "required documents", and the "cost" involved can help streamline the "application process".
In West Virginia, individuals eligible to obtain "West Virginia marriage records" include the persons named in the record, their immediate family members (parents, siblings, and children), and legal representatives. Additional documentation may be required to prove the relationship with the person named in the record.
To apply for a marriage certificate, you will need to provide the following documents:
You can get the application form and more detailed instructions on how to complete it on the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources website.
There are several methods to obtain "West Virginia marriage records":
To request by mail, send a completed application form along with a copy of your valid ID, payment (check or money order), and any additional required documents to:
Vital Registration
Room 165
350 Capitol Street
Charleston, WV 25301-3701
You can visit the same address given above to apply for the marriage certificate in person. Ensure you bring a completed application form, valid ID, and payment.
For online applications, visit the VitalChek website through this trackable link: VitalChek to order your marriage certificate. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid delays.
To ensure smooth processing of your application:
The fee for obtaining a marriage certificate in West Virginia is typically $12 per copy. Expedited services through VitalChek may incur additional charges. It's advisable to refer to the VitalChek website for the latest information on fees and payment methods.
Requests by mail generally take 5-7 business days to process once received by the Vital Registration office.
Walk-in requests are usually processed within a few hours on the same day.
Online requests through VitalChek may take 3-5 business days for processing.
If you need more precise information, contacting the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources directly is recommended.
In conclusion, obtaining your marriage records requires following specific steps and providing the necessary documents. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and efficient application process. If you have any questions or need further assistance, reaching out to the relevant West Virginia department is advisable.
If the event was recorded locally or if you need immediate access to detailed records, it is preferable to contact your county vital records office directly. Find the contact details of your local county vital records office here.
Address | Room 165, 350 Capitol Street, Charleston, WV 25301-3701 |
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Phone number | (304) 558-2931 |
Website | https://dhhr.wv.gov/Pages/default.aspx |