Melissa:
Being conscious of the fact that you will become eligible to apply later in the year, I would DEFINITELY recommend using the Service. Here, then, is a bit of background information about it:
Nationality Checking Service
The NCS is a partnership between the City of Edinburgh Council and the Home Office Nationality Group. It is registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner. Its officers are trained and authorised to check and forward completed applications to the Home Office.
The Nationality Checking Team can help reduce the chance that your application is delayed. It does this by:
(i) Checking your forms to ensure everything is completed correctly
(ii) Making sure all the required documents and fees are attached before the application is sent to the Home Office.
The team is able to return all your important documents (such as Passport & Marriage Certificate) rather than you having to submit them to the Home Office.
N.B. The Checking Service Team is not able to give advice or answer queries regarding an application. Any queries should be directed to the Home Office. Alternatively, telephone: 0845 010 5200
The Address & Telephone No. of the Edinburgh Office:
The City of Edinburgh Registrar's Office,
59-63 George IV Bridge,
EDINBURGH
EH1 1RN
Phone 0131-529-2600 for an appointment ... and pay the Checking Service fee of £66 at that time.
