Getting Married in North Carolina: Legal Requirements and Process

In North Carolina, both parties must appear in person at the Register of Deeds office in any county to apply for a marriage license. You'll need to bring valid photo ID, proof of Social Security numbers, and pay a fee (typically $60). The license is valid for 60 days after issuance. There is no waiting period in North Carolina, so you can get married the same day you receive your license.

While optional, a prenuptial agreement can protect pre-marital assets and outline financial responsibilities. In North Carolina, prenups must be in writing, signed by both parties, and executed before the marriage. For the agreement to be enforceable, both parties should have independent legal counsel, full financial disclosure, and adequate time to review (not signed right before the wedding). North Carolina follows the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act.

Marriage automatically changes certain inheritance rights in North Carolina. Without a will, your spouse will receive a significant portion of your estate under intestate succession laws. After marriage, create or update your will to reflect your wishes regarding your new spouse and any other beneficiaries. In North Carolina, a valid will must be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two competent witnesses who also sign the document.

This document allows your spouse (or another person) to make medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated. In North Carolina, a healthcare power of attorney must be in writing, signed by you, and notarized. It should also be witnessed by two qualified individuals who are not related to you, not your healthcare providers, and not entitled to any portion of your estate.

This document allows your spouse (or another person) to handle financial and legal matters on your behalf if you become incapacitated. In North Carolina, a durable power of attorney must be in writing, signed by you, and notarized. Since January 1, 2018, all powers of attorney in North Carolina must follow the statutory form unless they are specifically for healthcare decisions.

Review and update beneficiary designations on life insurance policies, retirement accounts, investment accounts, and other financial assets. These designations typically override will provisions, so it's important to ensure they reflect your current wishes. Contact each financial institution to request and submit the appropriate beneficiary designation forms.

If either spouse wishes to change their name after marriage, you'll need to update your Social Security card first, then your driver's license, passport, and other documents. In North Carolina, you can use your marriage certificate as proof for a name change without filing a separate petition with the court. For your Social Security card, visit the local Social Security Administration office with your marriage certificate, photo ID, and completed SS-5 form.

While not required, many couples choose to establish joint bank accounts after marriage. Visit your preferred financial institution with your spouse, bringing identification documents and your marriage certificate. Both parties will need to sign the application. Consider discussing whether you want to maintain separate accounts in addition to joint accounts.

Marriage is a qualifying life event that allows you to add your spouse to your health insurance or switch to your spouse's plan outside of open enrollment periods. In North Carolina, you typically have 30-60 days after your wedding to make these changes. Contact your health insurance provider or employer's HR department to obtain and submit the necessary forms.

Once married, you can file taxes jointly or separately. For most couples, filing jointly offers tax advantages, but this depends on your specific financial situation. If you're married as of December 31, you're considered married for the entire tax year. Consult with a tax professional to determine the best filing status for your situation.

Update your address with the postal service, employers, financial institutions, and other important entities if you're moving in together. Also update emergency contact information with your employer, doctor's offices, and other relevant organizations to list your spouse.

North Carolina requires all drivers to have liability insurance. After marriage, you may qualify for multi-car or multi-driver discounts by combining policies. Contact your insurance provider to explore options and make any necessary changes to ensure adequate coverage for both spouses and all vehicles.