How To Get a Discount On Your Marriage License in Florida
It’s no secret that planning a wedding can be expensive! Many couples are often looking to save wherever they can. What many couples don’t know is that there is a way to save on their marriage license by engaging in premarital counseling within their state.
The Requirements
In the state of Florida, if you attend 4 hours of Premarital Counseling you are eligible to receive around $25 off your Florida Marriage license. This of course is a small discount and requires an investment in premarital counseling which will offset the discount, but if you already want to invest in premarital education and preparation, it’s an added benefit! Once you complete the 4 hours of premarital education with a certified premarital education provider, you will receive a certificate of completion verifying your completion of the program. When you submit this certificate along with your application for your marriage license, you’ll be granted the discount!
What is Covered in Premarital Counseling?
What is covered in Premarital Counseling can vary depending on the number of sessions you take and the unique strengths and growth areas in your relationship. However, most couples can expect to receive education and skills related to communication and conflict resolution as a baseline. From there, other topics covered may include:
Compromise
Personality Differences
Roles & Responsibilities
Relationships with In-Laws and Your Family of Origin
Generational Patterns to Continue/Discontinue in Your Own Family
Physical & Emotional Intimacy
Finances
Spirituality
Wedding Stress
Becoming Parents and Parenting
The Difference Between Taking an Online Course vs. Attending Premarital Counseling
Online instruction and courses are included as premarital education if they are administered by a certified premarital education provider, but there are important differences to consider when deciding which option is the right option for your relationship.
The benefits of Premarital Online Courses Include:
Accessibility - you can take the course at your own pace and during times that are most convenient for you
Affordable - because of the more generic nature of an online course, these courses are often much more affordable than premarital counseling
Education - you’ll receive a basic foundation of premarital education covering the most common and useful tips and tools for couples at this stage in their relationship
The benefits of Premarital Counseling Include:
Individualized Approach - By working one-on-one with a premarital counselor, you’ll receive a more individualized approach to your premarital education that considers your relationship’s specific strengths, challenges and context.
More In-Depth Discussion - With more insight into your relationship, a premarital counselor can go more in-depth when discussing specific topics that are the highest priority for your relationship and future. The premarital counselor can further explore each of your unique backgrounds, communication styles, and relationship patterns.
Established Relationship for Future Support - the last benefit is that by establishing a relationship with a premarital counselor, you create an option for a supportive resource in the future. Your premarital counselor will already understand your relationship when you may need further support later on in your marriage. Many couples need additional support during times of significant transition (such as having a baby or changing jobs) or when facing new challenges that prove to be difficult to resolve or get past. If you already have a relationship with a premarital counselor, it makes it very easy to check in later on for a few sessions.
Whichever option you choose, investing in premarital counseling and education can be an incredibly valuable resource for the future of your relationship. You’ll learn how to communicate better, navigate challenges, and you’ll leave feeling more understood and more connected with your partner. That’s a great foundation for a lasting and thriving marriage!
If you are applying for a Miami-Dade Marriage License, I have the option for in-person sessions. However, I can offer premarital counseling to couples virtually within the state of Florida as well. Reach out if you have any questions!
Book a Free Consultation Today:
At Marital Mindset Counseling, we believe healthy relationships are a source of strength, connection, and meaning in our lives. Our goal is to better prepare couples for marriage and set a positive foundation and relationship model for generations to come.
As a marriage and family therapist, I offer premarital and marriage counseling to couples in the state of Florida, both virtually and in person. If you want to explore if we’re a good fit for each other, I offer free 15 minute phone consultations as well.