Getting Married in Maine: A Legal Guide

In Maine, both parties must appear together at a municipal office to apply for a marriage license. You'll need to bring proof of identification (government-issued photo ID), proof of Social Security Number, and certified copies of any divorce decrees or death certificates if previously married. The license fee is typically $40. Once issued, the license is valid for 90 days.

While optional, a prenuptial agreement can protect pre-marital assets and outline financial responsibilities. In Maine, prenuptial agreements must be in writing, signed by both parties, and entered into voluntarily with full disclosure of assets. Consider consulting with separate attorneys to ensure the agreement is fair and enforceable under Maine law.

If either spouse plans to change their name after marriage, you'll need to complete the process with multiple agencies. In Maine, you can use your marriage certificate as proof for name changes with the Social Security Administration (first step), then the BMV for your driver's license, and finally with other institutions (banks, employers, etc.).

Marriage automatically changes certain inheritance rights in Maine. Review and update your existing will or create a new one that reflects your marital status and includes your spouse. Without a will, Maine intestacy laws determine how assets are distributed, which may not align with your wishes.

This document allows your spouse (or another designated person) to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. In Maine, this is part of an Advance Healthcare Directive. While marriage doesn't automatically grant these rights, spouses are typically considered first in medical decision-making, but a formal document provides clarity and legal protection.

This document authorizes your spouse (or another designated person) to handle financial and legal matters if you become incapacitated. Marriage doesn't automatically grant these powers in Maine, so this document is essential for financial protection. The document must be signed in the presence of a notary public to be valid in Maine.

Review and update beneficiary designations on life insurance policies, retirement accounts, investment accounts, and other financial assets. In Maine, these designations typically override will provisions, so it's crucial to ensure they reflect your current wishes regarding your spouse.

Decide whether to maintain separate accounts, create joint accounts, or use a combination approach. In Maine, joint accounts provide both spouses with equal access and ownership of funds. Consider the implications for daily finances, emergencies, and estate planning when making this decision.

Marriage is a qualifying life event that allows you to add your spouse to your health insurance or switch to your spouse's plan. In Maine, you typically have 30-60 days after marriage to make these changes outside of open enrollment periods. Compare plans to determine the most cost-effective and comprehensive coverage for your family.

Marriage affects your tax filing status and potentially your tax liability. Research whether filing jointly or separately is more advantageous based on your specific financial situation. Maine has its own state income tax, so consider both federal and state tax implications of marriage.

Update emergency contact information with employers, doctors, and other relevant parties to include your spouse. While not a legal requirement in Maine, this ensures your spouse can be notified and involved in emergency situations.

Consider how you want to title property owned before marriage and any property acquired after marriage. In Maine, options include sole ownership, joint tenancy with right of survivorship, and tenancy in common. Each has different implications for ownership rights and what happens to the property upon death.