Increase in marriage license fees hits Sandoval County

BERNALILLO — Sandoval County Clerk Anne Brady-Romero announced May 28 that marriage license fees will increase from $25 to $55 statewide on June 20.

Brady-Romero said that the additional fees collected will be used to modernize local record-keeping and continue to support critical family and community programs administered by the State’s Children’s Trust Fund, according to a release.The release states the increase is the first one to occur in more than 22 years in New Mexico. Comparatively, neighboring state’s fees vary, but New Mexico tends to run on the cheaper side. Texas charges about $81 for the license but offers discounts to those who take a marriage course. Colorado is less, however, with a fee of $30.

“It’s important to note that marriage licenses in New Mexico have no expiration date. Couples can obtain their licenses now or closer to their wedding. The application process begins in person at our office and does require an appointment. After the ceremony, the signed certificate is returned to the Clerk’s Office within 90 days for official recording,” Brady-Romero added.

She was also open about how those funds are distributed. According to the release, $20 will be distributed to the clerk’s office for document preservation and technology improvements, $20 to the children’s trust fund for child abuse prevention and support services, and $15 to the county general fund.

Sandoval County marriage license appointments are available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment or for more information, call 505-867-7572. The Sandoval County Clerk’s Office is in the County Administration Building, 1500 Idalia Road, Bernalillo.