Marriage Intentions

Except for a few exceptional circumstances, a couple wishing to be married must appear in person at the Town Clerk's Office to file marriage intention paperwork.  Both parties must be 18 years of age or older, currently not married, and must show valid ID that confirms age.  Once completed, the intention paperwork is signed under oath. 

Some of the information required includes:  legal name, last name to be used after marriage, social security number (if applicable), date and place of birth, and parent's current and last name at birth. The fee for filing the intention paperwork is $40.00 (cash or check).  Marriage intentions are accepted Monday - Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.  Walk-ins are welcome.

Massachusetts requires a mandatory 3 day waiting period from the time the intention of marriage is filed before releasing the marriage certificate.  However, a waiver (marriage without delay) of this waiting period may be obtained from the Eastern Hampshire Court in Belchertown if necessary.  A marriage certificate is valid for sixty (60) days from the date the intention is filed, and may be used for a ceremony conducted in any Massachusetts city or town. 

The marriage certificate must be picked up before the ceremony and given to the Officiant (Justice of the Peace, Clergy, or one-day solemnizer).  The Officiant must complete the solemnizer portion of the marriage certificate and return it to our office within ten (10) days.

Amherst does not file domestic partnerships.

Pre-marital blood work testing is no longer required as of January 28, 2005.