Say What? WA Couples Now Paying $100 More for Marriage Licenses

It's now more expensive to tie the knot in Washington State. The cost of getting married can vary depending on your choices. However, one thing is certain.

The Cost of Getting Married in Washington Has Increased by $100.

The Washington State Legislature recently passed House Bill 1498, introducing a $100 surcharge on marriage license applications to support a statewide co-responder program for domestic violence incidents. The cost varies according to county. The total marriage license fee in Benton County is now $172.

The new program will fund local governments to hire social workers to respond to domestic violence calls with local police officers. The state legislature approved the program in April.

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There Is a Three-Day Waiting Period After Applying Before Your License Is Valid.

The application process may take a few days for processing, so it's recommended that you apply at least three weeks before your wedding date. The marriage license remains valid for 60 days after the waiting period. According to Benton County, certified copies of your marriage certificate are $3 each.

You'll Need an Officiant, What Does This Cost?

It varies. Professionals may charge anywhere from $250 to $1,000 depending on services. Civil ceremonies with a judge or Justice of the Peace may cost between $120 to $250. And religious officients may encourage a donation to their church, ranging between $200 to $500 for members. A friend or family member can officiate your ceremony, and can become ordained online for a cost of $80 or less, depending on the organization.

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The Ceremony and Reception

The cost of your ceremony and reception will cost the most. Consider guest count, venue, catering, photography, flowers, decorations, entertainment. We haven't even touched on attire, rings, or transportation.

The average cost of a Washington wedding in 2023 was just below $37,000.