Getting Married in Florida

Before your wedding day, you'll need to obtain a Florida marriage license.

Generally, you'll need:

• Valid identification

• Payment for the license fee

• To meet Florida's eligibility requirements

• Any required documentation if previously married

Requirements can vary slightly by county, so check with your local Clerk of Court before applying.

Updating Your Name

If one or both spouses plan to change their name, you'll likely need to update:

• Social Security records

• Florida driver's license

• Passport

• Employer records

• Bank accounts

• Credit cards

• Insurance policies

• Professional licenses

• Voter registration

Keeping these records consistent can help avoid unnecessary delays later.

Combining Your Finances

Marriage often means reviewing financial goals together.

Consider discussing:

• Monthly budget

• Savings goals

• Emergency fund

• Retirement planning

• Joint versus separate accounts

• Credit scores

• Debt repayment

• Investment strategy

Open communication about finances can help build a strong foundation for your future.

Buying Your First Home Together

Many newly married couples begin thinking about homeownership.

Before buying, consider:

• Down payment

• Mortgage budget

• Home inspections

• Property taxes

• Flood zones

• Homeowners insurance

• Wind mitigation features

Choosing the right home is only part of protecting your investment.

Reviewing Your Insurance

Marriage is an ideal time to review your insurance coverage.

Auto Insurance

Combining policies may simplify coverage and could make you eligible for multi-vehicle or multi-policy discounts, depending on your insurer and circumstances.

Homeowners or Condo Insurance

If you're moving in together or purchasing a home, make sure your property insurance reflects your current living situation and ownership.

Renters Insurance

If you're renting your first home together, renters insurance can help protect your personal belongings and provide liability coverage.

Life Insurance

Marriage often brings shared financial responsibilities. Reviewing your life insurance needs can help ensure your spouse is financially protected if the unexpected happens.

Umbrella Insurance

As couples accumulate assets, such as a home, vehicles, savings, or investment property, umbrella insurance may provide an additional layer of liability protection beyond your existing policies.

Update Beneficiaries

Marriage is a good time to review beneficiary designations on:

• Life insurance

• Retirement accounts

• Employer benefits

• Investment accounts

• Payable-on-death accounts

Remember that beneficiary designations often override instructions contained in a will.