What is the Twogether in Texas program?

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is implementing House Bill 2685 through a program called “Twogether in Texas”.  On September 1, 2008, the state marriage license fee increased from $30 to $60.  However, couples can attend an 8-hour, skills-based premarital workshop to have the fee waived.

Each month a free couples premarital workshop is offered in each county.  The workshops include training in communication skills, conflict management, finances, parenting, and other research-based and skills-based elements of a healthy marriage.  Couples can find workshops in their area by logging on to www.twogetherhouston.com or by calling 2-1-1.

In addition, there are other free and fee-based workshops available that couples can choose that are provided by clergy, counselors, and therapists.  Information on those sessions can be found at www.twogetherintexas.com.

At the conclusion of the training, couples will receive a certificate they take to the County Clerk office when applying for their marriage license.  Counties may continue to charge up to $12 in local fees for a marriage license.   Couples can forgo the 72-hour waiting period to get married, and the certificate is good for 365 days.

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