The marriage notice fee
Each of you pays a notice fee at your own appointment. It is a statutory fee set nationally and collected by the council, payable on the day, and it is not refunded if the marriage does not go ahead. A higher fee applies where a notice must be referred to the Home Office.
Per person, not per couple
Two notices means two fees, even where you attend the same office on the same day.
Referred notices
Where the referral and investigation scheme applies, the notice fee is higher. Your register office will tell you which fee applies before you pay.
If you have to give notice again
Changing venue, letting the twelve-month validity lapse, or failing to complete an appointment all mean giving notice again — and paying again.
What this means for you
- Do not give notice until the venue and date are genuinely settled.
- Confirm the current fee with your council; national fees are reviewed periodically.
Official sources
- GOV.UK — Fees for marriages and civil partnerships
- GOV.UK — Give notice at your local register office
Last reviewed: 16 August 2026 · Next review due 16 November 2026
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Related guides
Simply Married is an independent planning service, not a register office or government department. Confirm current requirements and fees with your own register office and on GOV.UK.