The phrase, “…and they lived happily ever after.” makes a lot of people want to dream and have their own happy endings. But, there are tons of paperwork and processes to fulfill before that! And, one of which is an affidavit of single status. Without this vital form, a couple won’t be able to say their marriage vows and be legally married.
The phrase, “…and they lived happily ever after.” makes a lot of people want to dream and have their own happy endings. But, there are tons of paperwork and processes to fulfill before that! And, one of which is an affidavit of single status. Without this vital form, a couple won’t be able to say their marriage vows and be legally married.
What Is an Affidavit of Single Status?
Who wants to get married and end up with a bigamy court case? Well, no one, right? That is the reason why an affidavit of single status becomes one of the essential documents that a soon-to-be-wed couple must submit. It will serve as proof that both the man and woman are legally allowed to remarry or get married. This form is also known as the statement of freedom to marry, single status affidavit, single letter, and letter of freedom to marry. Regardless of the name, the form must have a notarial stamp from a notary public to certify that its contents are true and accurate.
Affidavit of Single Status vs. Polygamy
When an individual gets married to more than one spouse, and none of the spouses knew of each other’s marriages, then he is committing bigamy. While, if all involved knew of the double marital union, and there’s a cultural belief surrounding it, then the term used is polygamy.
However, be it polygamy or bigamy, the United States of America does not condone the act. That’s why there’s a law for it known as the Morrill Anti-Bigamy Act. And, to prove that one is single and not married to anyone, even abroad, is by presenting an affidavit of single status. What about the penalty for the offenders? Well, it’s imprisonment for up to five years. But, the number of years will depend on a case-by-case scenario and the state where the couples lived.
6+ Affidavit of Single Status Samples
Different states have varying affidavit formats that they follow. So, if you’re still looking for the right one to use, then consider our affidavit of single status examples below which are available in PDF and DOC formats:
1. Affidavit of Single Status Sample
2. Basic Affidavit of Single Status Template
3. Standard Affidavit of Single Status Sample
4. Affidavit of Single Status in PDF
5. Printable Affidavit of Single Status Sample
6. Affidavit of Single Status and No Impediment To Marry
7. Affidavit of Single Status Facts in DOC
How to Get an Affidavit of Single Status
Proving one’s singleness should be easy, right? But, then again, it’s not a piece of cake to delve into since varying states have differing laws too. That’s why, before you get the affidavit, or even try to make one, you must go to a lawyer to know the laws of the state where you reside and where your wedding will occur. After that, you can adhere to the steps below:
Step 1: Prepare All Requirements
Your passport, valid ID, driver’s license, and social security number are some of the items you have to prepare. And, if you’re divorced, then you must have your Decree Absolute. On the one hand, if you’re widowed, then both the marriage and death certificate of your former spouse should be readily available. As stated, you must consult a lawyer and determine what other requirements you will need.
Step 2: Schedule Your Appointment
It is essential to note that the state does not accept walk-in applications in getting the affidavit. So, again, you must ask your lawyer or any legal personnel to help you in appointing your schedule online.
Step 3: Attend to Your Scheduled Appointment
Along with your own presence, you must submit the requirements, including your birth certificate and other valid IDs. During your appointment, they will verify your identity. Then, they will provide you the acknowledged affidavit form for you to add your signature into it. And lastly, you must pay for the fee required for you to get the affidavit. You can provide the payment directly via cash, cheque, as well as using your credit card.
Affidavit of Single Status FAQs
Who’s eligible for an affidavit of single status?
Generally, individuals who are going to get married are eligible to get the affidavit, whether the wedding happens within the country or abroad.
Are the requirements the same for those who will get married outside the country?
Yes, however, there may be additional documents that the state may require to further prove that an individual is not yet married to anyone within the state and in other countries.
Overall, affidavit of single status forms are essential for proving one’s civil status, and eligibility to get married. Nevertheless, the state who will provide and notarize the affidavit form should ensure that the individuals are claiming their true identities before giving the affidavit.