Use Your Maiden Name Even After a Name Change

Use Your Maiden Name Even After a Name Change

Whether you're changing your name to better align with your new spouse's and kids' names or because you like the new name better, there may be situations where it makes sense to continue using your maiden name.

You could achieve the best of both worlds where:

  1. You change your name after marriage.
  2. You continue to use your maiden name when it suits you.

Let's explore real-life circumstances where it helps to use your maiden name over your married name, whether that's sometimes or even most of the time.

1. In professional contexts

If you've invested time building your maiden name into your professional identity, don't discard it arbitrarily: consider the consequences and prepare for the transition.

Woman riding ocean wave, clinging to orange life preserver
When necessary, reclaim your maiden name like a life preserver.

Even after changing their name through marriage, many people still use their maiden names in professional contexts. You can join the ranks of those who find this approach beneficial.

It's doable without conflict, while ensuring everything is legal and compartmentalized: your maiden name over here and your married name over there, coexisting peacefully.

Our online name change kit can help you complete this transition while you prepare for a future where your maiden name remains prominent in your life.

Everyone knows you by your maiden name

Consider the numerous places your maiden name is firmly plugged into the world, extending far beyond your diploma, professional license, or general reputation.

Woman standing besides electrical tower with cables wrapped around her
Your maiden name weaves through a complex circuitry of connections.

Your colleagues, customers, and clients know you by your maiden name. Your authored articles, references, and referrals from others are linked to your maiden name.

Your professional network converges around your name, weaving a web of recognition. Like Coca-Cola, you've covertly and masterfully branded your name throughout your life.

But now that you're married (or soon-to-be married) and have changed your name, it's like a burst of lightning, short-circuiting these connections.

Like X, formerly known as Twitter, you've warped and fragmented your brand recognition and must carry the "formerly known as" millstone around your neck.

But you might not have to undergo a complete reset…

Starting over with your married name

Changing your maiden name severs your network of associations until you assimilate your married name. Yet, like refreezing melted ice cream, it's never quite the same after.

Woman connecting multiple cables to mysterious device
Changing your name means reestablishing lost connections.

Traces of your maiden name will persist, etched into your birth records, and deeply embedded in genealogy databases, as well as in the memories of everyone you've met.

Covert woman spying in bushes with magnifying glass
Trace elements of your maiden name will never fully disappear.

While you can change your driver's license, you can't erase the historical record. Your yearbook is just one permanent testament to the past.

Yet this article isn't focused on downsides and rejecting your married name, but on completing the transformation while still placing your maiden name at the forefront.

Let's delve into putting your maiden name to work…

Here's one way dealing with name changes can get tricky: people still send mail and write checks to your maiden name even after you've switched to your married name.

Woman with headache experiencing exasperation
Managing the legacy of your maiden name is a necessary burden.

The opposite also is true: checks made out to your married name are problematic when you haven't yet updated your bank records away from your maiden name.

A name mismatch might disrupt check cashing, deposits, and direct payments, including those from employers or potential IRS tax refunds.

Prepare for the inevitable: talk with your bank and make sure they'll allow deposits in both your maiden and married names.

Woman cashing a check at an urban industrial bank
Upon request, your bank should accept checks in either your maiden or married name.

While you're at it, if you have a hyphenated name, go the extra mile by ensuring your bank accepts three name variations:

  1. Your maiden name
  2. Your hyphenated name
  3. Your spouse's surname only (just in case)

If you're well known by your bank's staff, an informal acknowledgment may be enough. But it's better to have an official notation recorded in your account that applies globally.

You should repeat this routine with every new bank account you open.

Notifying your bank is an often overlooked name change task that merits elevated importance alongside updating your social security card but rarely receives the attention it deserves.

Tick off this name change to-do early, as soon as you have a certified copy of your marriage certificate available to show your financial institution.

Doing business in your maiden name

Registering a DBA in your maiden name is useful when you need to conduct official business using your maiden name after changing it due to marriage.

Woman holding an illuminated light bulb
Bright idea: Register your maiden name as a DBA for business.

FYI, DBA stands for "doing business as" and is synonymous with other terms, such as fictitious business name, assumed name, brand name, trade name, or trading name.

This approach ensures seamless continuity and legal compliance, sparing you the need to alter business cards, letterheads, signatures, or the brand you've cultivated.

Put simply, a DBA is a clever way for you to use your maiden name as a legal alias, nickname, or pseudonym for your business or company.

Using your maiden name as a licensed professional

Having the aforementioned DBA in your maiden name is not a sufficient replacement for failing to update the legal name on a professional, government-issued license.

For instance, if you're a registered nurse or doctor, the DBA approach won't work. Instead, ask your state's licensing board about using your maiden name professionally.

Nurse dressed in dark turquoise uniform sits amongst colleagues at conference
Your state licensing board must permit the professional use of your maiden name.

In this scenario, your state's licensing board would record your married name as your legal name and add your maiden name as an alternative name.

This allows you to continue working under your maiden name as your professional name, legally and transparently.

State regulations vary, so contact your state's licensing board to confirm if this practice is permitted and its potential impact on your DEA number, NPI, etc.

Nurse dressed in white uniform looking up with hand on her chin
Obtain solid verification that your state allows use of your maiden name as an alias.

Consider requesting written confirmation from the board to acknowledge working under your maiden name as your professional name, despite your legal name change.

The preceding logic applies to other state-licensed professions too, such as dentists, pharmacists, psychologists, counselors, and physical therapists, among others.

2. In social contexts

Changing your name is a bold move, so it's understandable if you're reluctant to make the switch. After all, you've had the same name for your whole life… until now.

So, why bother changing?

Perhaps you're pragmatic in seeking a smoother experience with insurance and paperwork, or you may simply prefer to embrace the tradition of adopting your spouse's name.

In various situations, you don't necessarily have to strictly adhere to your legal name. Consider the context, exercise sound judgment, and avoid confining yourself to rigid boundaries.

For instance, when you're meeting new people who don't know your spouse and address you by your maiden name, there's no obligation to correct them.

Friends gathered around a crackling open fire barbecue grill
It's okay to use your maiden name socially or informally.

Another scenario is when you're meeting with old friends; you might want to stick with your maiden name, as your longtime friends may have trouble adjusting to your new name.

Most of these events are social in nature, so there are no legal implications to worry about. Feel free to rotate between your maiden and married names whenever you like.

When a security or background check gets ran against you, they'll ask for any previous names you've gone under to get a thorough look at your history.

Woman filling out security clearance document for background check
Revealing your maiden name is expected for a background check.

Background checks are standard for job applications, volunteer positions, and credit checks. In these cases, you're usually legally required to provide your maiden name.

How can you tell if it's required? Check the form; if it has a section for listing other names you've used, you'll typically find instructions mentioning "such as maiden names."

Better safe than sorry, unless you're really set on leaving your maiden name behind. In that case, ask whoever's handling your paperwork if listing your maiden name is mandatory.

Your legal name is the name on your social security record, which is also the name you'll use for tax filings, job applications, and W-2 forms.

Cheerful woman holding up a certificate showing her name
Always use your real name in legal contexts, paperwork, and contracts.

Beyond the talk of DBAs and social contexts, you must use your real name when filling out legal or government forms that asks for your name, current name, or legal name.

So if you've officially changed your name after marriage, but use your maiden name in social or formal capacities, your legal name and real name is your married name.

For instance, if you're an actor or singer with a stage name, you must sign your contracts and file your taxes using your real name. This is where artistry meets reality.

4. Paperwork not finished

One compelling reason to temporarily stick with your maiden name, whether you like it or not, is when you have paperwork and ID that still needs updating.

Woman drifting asleep atop a cluttered pile of paperwork
Your maiden name remains primary until your married name paperwork is done.

Before moving from your maiden name to your married name, the former will play a key role in preserving your legal identity before passing the baton.

When using your maiden name is unavoidable

Similar to methodically repairing a complex mechanical device, changing your name is a step-by-step process, addressing one document at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Woman repairing complex mechanical device
Name change is like a performing a complex fix or rebuild: one component or document at a time.

But you've also got to navigate when to strategically and temporarily hold onto your maiden name on a case-by-case basis, especially when time constraints or logistical challenges make updating everything in sequence impossible.

But sometimes the decision is out of your hands…

Certain documents are interconnected, requiring your names to match. In such cases, updating one ID necessitates changing others simultaneously.

For example, if your driver's license is in your married name, but your passport has your maiden name, international airline tickets must match the name in your passport.

Another example is if you've updated your social security card and nothing else, you must still file your taxes to match the name social security has on file.

Don't crack out of turn

Picture changing your name as a high-stakes game where you're juggling two identities: your maiden name and your married name.

Woman in seedy underground world playing high-stakes poker
Stay in character: Keep your maiden and married name in check.

Much like a con artist guards their words to avoid "cracking out of turn" and revealing their true intentions, you must master the art of smoothly transitioning from one name to the other.

Only when you've updated all your documents can you finally shift from your maiden name to your married name, preventing any identity "cracks" in your smooth changeover.

Managing multiple identities

You're managing conflicting identities, but each credential, from your social security card and driver's license to your bank accounts, allows only one name to prevail.

Woman with clown makeup holding a comedy tragedy mask
Transitioning names means handling two identities: old and new.

Keep a checklist of who has confirmed your name change. This will ensure that you never find yourself in an embarrassing situation where you're unsure which name to provide.

Woman writing on a blackboard covered with sticky notes
Maintain a list of where your name has changed: every document and organization.

Before obtaining official approval for your new name, introduce yourself with your maiden name, and then explain that you're in the process of changing it.

This is often enough to satisfy requirements at places such as banks, as they understand the time-consuming nature of the name change process.

5. Haven't decided to go through with it

For some, the decision to undergo a name change is a can they keep kicking down the road, sometimes for years.

Women sitting down with palms on chin, immersed in indecision
Uncertainty is a normal part of every name change decision.

It's a procrastination that can make them wonder if they've missed an unspoken name change deadline that'll snare them with penalties or consequences.

Buying yourself some time

You might choose to slow-walk the process by updating your legal name on certain documents while you mull over whether you genuinely want to undergo a name change.

Woman gazes at a dark atmospheric wall adorned with analog clocks
Don't rush your name change, lest you regret your decision.

You might even welcome the idea of name change at first, only to backtrack when it comes to signing documents and introducing yourself with an entirely new name.

You're not alone if you're not sure if name change is right for you at this time. Maintaining the status quo is a tempting alternative to indecision.

You can legally change your name, but if you ever want to switch back to your maiden name, you can do so at any time. It's a reversible decision.

At a minimum, make sure your preferred name is chosen before applying for a marriage license to avoid your marriage certificate missing your married name.

Closing thoughts on using your maiden name

Some people think changing or keeping their name after getting married as a Hobson's choice. In reality, you have room to maneuver.

You can legally change your name and still use your maiden name at work or with friends. So, you're not boxed in. It's about what feels right for you in the moment.

If you're interested in starting the name change process, our online name change kit provides expert guidance through the transition.

Our name change kit helps you change your name, either before or after marriage.

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3,167 Comments

  1. I live in Boston, MA and married back in 2013. When i filled out my marriage certificate I wrote down I would take my husbands last name. As of now, I have not used his last name. I haven't changed my SSN or passport to my married name on my certificate. The only time I have used my married last name was when I was filing forms for immigration for my husband.

    Is this ok for me to do? Or should I be using my married last name for everything (bank, credit cards, etc)?

      • Wait so I recently got married, and my marriage certificate has my husbands last name but I haven’t changed any of my other documents. Literally none, I love him and I’m happy but I don’t want to go through the hassle of the name change. Is that legal? Am I still married even if I don’t use the new last name?

        • Am I still married even if I don’t use the new last name?

          Yes, the married name on your marriage certificate is nonbinding.

    • I would keep everything how it is. I went through a divorce 6 years ago and the hardest part was changing my name back to my maiden name. I’m actually still not done with all documents because things are missing. It’s so frustrating. If I get married again, I’m keeping my maiden name. My future kids will have my future spouses last name

  2. I was married 16 years ago and changed my name to hyphenate my maiden and married name on my drivers license and passport but my social security card has only my married name on it do I need to change my name on my drivers license and passport to reflect social security info or does it even matter since my married last name

  3. Just got married and kept my maiden name, when signing documents can i initial my maiden name followed by my spouses last name?

    • when signing documents can i initial my maiden name followed by my spouses last name?

      Probably not a good idea for governmental and llegal paperwork. You'll want to use your current legal name. For more informal purposes, it's fine. When in doubt, ask whichever entity your dealing with if it'll be a problem, especially if signature verification might come into play.

  4. I got married but made a big mistake and I found my then husband had cheated. We were not together for longer than 3 weeks and I did not use his surname after that. I reverted back to my maiden name. My question is I have to fill out a DBS form but because I didn't use my marriage name and they need to know all my previous names and how long I used those names what do I put?

    • Following on from my last comment. I in fact did not use my married surname at all. Will I still need to disclose this name on a DBS check and if I do will it hold things up. I do not remember using that name on my previous check

      • Hi Denise. If you only used it informally, then you needn't bother with using it again. In this case, you'd use your maiden name from now on.

    • Hi Denise. If you never formally/legally changed your name, you can ignore any new surname or surname usage. You needn't reference it as a previous name. However, if you did change it for real (e.g., Social Security card or driver's license), go ahead and reference it.

  5. I am in the process of filing for disability, 5 year process so far. All my Dr’s paperwork, visits, testing, court documents, etc is all done in my maiden last name.

    Is it possible to keep my maiden name as middle and add his last name, so Lisa Jones Smith, but for Disability, Doctors, banking etc, can I sign as Lisa Jones OR do I have to use Lisa Smith. OR would it be best to legally wait on name change until disability court has been resolved? Thank you. ( just married in TX this weekend-court case is in CA)

    • Is it possible to keep my maiden name as middle and add his last name

      Shifting your maiden to middle is supported in most states.

      can I sign as Lisa Jones OR do I have to use Lisa Smith

      You'd sign your current legal name.

      OR would it be best to legally wait on name change until disability court has been resolved?

      You can change your name during or afterward. The SSA will be the one deciding your disability case and name change is within their purview. There's no time limit for name change, so waiting until later does no harm.

  6. My daughter got married a few weeks ago. She has her drivers license and social security card still in her maiden name, but she just purchased a used car using her married name. The car has temporary tags on it right now.

    Will there be any problems insuring the vehicle if it is in her married name, when the DL and SS card are in her maiden name?

    • Hi Angela. It's not a problem. She'll still be insured. Her marriage certificate proves her married name is valid.

    • I just carried a copy of my marriage license in my wallet until all my legal documents got changed. It's not a problem. Everyone understands and accepts it.

  7. Hello. I am getting married next month and am interested in taking my husband's last name as my middle name (not changing my first or last name). I currently do not have a middle name. The Social Security website says they don't consider middle names part of one's legal name. If I added a middle name, would I have to do any name change paperwork? I live in WA State.
    Thanks.

  8. Hello,

    It seems that I can never find a clear, cut answer and just want to verify I understand correctly. I am getting married in a few months and plan to either hyphenate or have both mine and my future husband's last name on the certificate.

    Is there a time limit as to when I need to change my legal paperwork to reflect this (i.e. social security, passports, license, etc).?

    Even if I put both last names for the marriage certificate, my maiden name would still be my legal last name until/unless I change it with social security, correct?

    Basically, I want to confirm if I can have the certificate encompass both names but not have to change it legally by a specific time period. So if I want to change it legally, I can but I do not have to and if I do, I can do it at any point during the marriage?

    • Is there a time limit as to when I need to change my legal paperwork to reflect this

      There's no time limit to change your name after marriage.

      Even if I put both last names for the marriage certificate, my maiden name would still be my legal last name until/unless I change it with social security, correct?

      Correct.

      So if I want to change it legally, I can but I do not have to and if I do, I can do it at any point during the marriage?

      Name change is optional. Whatever new name appears on your marriage certificate is nonbinding.

  9. I put on marriage certificate my husbands last name to be mine, but afterwards I never went to change it with social security driver license, but when I applied for my green card I did put his last name as mine, but didn't change it on anything else, now were goin through a divorce when I applied for the divorce I didn't ask for my name to be restored to my maiden name.

    I asked I lawyer he said my legal name was the one that appeared on my driver license that is why I filled my divoce paper work with my maiden name. Do I have to start all over again the process of divorce or am I ok? please help

  10. I got married in California I did put on marriage certificate that I wanted husband's last name as mine but I never went to social security to change it, all my paper work still appears as my maiden name, does this mean my legal name is what I put on my marriage certificate? if I want to go through divorce do I need to ask for my name to be changed back to my maiden?

    • does this mean my legal name is what I put on my marriage certificate?

      Your legal name is still your name before marriage.

      if I want to go through divorce do I need to ask for my name to be changed back to my maiden?

      No, it wouldn't apply.

  11. Hi,

    I recently got divorced in September 2019 but haven't changed my SS card or Driver's License to reflect this. I do have a court order requesting to restore my maiden name.

    I'm applying for a new job and must complete a background check. I have a passport that shows my maiden name. For the background check, should I just simply use my maiden name and indicate my married name as another name I've used in the past? Thanks!

    • Hi Tori. The primary name should match what's on your social security card. You can reference your maiden name as a prior name.

  12. Hi,
    I became a citizen before I got married but once I got married I took my husband's last name. I've changed my DL and SSC to match my marriage certificate except for my passport (still has my maiden name). Can I keep my maiden name on my passport or do I have to change it? Also, do I have to change my citizenship certificate as well?

    • Can I keep my maiden name on my passport or do I have to change it?

      Yes, you can keep your maiden name on your passport.

      Also, do I have to change my citizenship certificate as well?

      No, your certificate of citizenship remains the same.

  13. Both my SS card and US Passport reflect my maiden and married last name with a hyphen. When I went to the DMV office to update my California Driver's License to match both SS card and Passport I was told by the clerk that it was easier to put my maiden name as my middle name. Apparently at the time hyphens we're not allowed (this was about 15 years ago). I've never had any issues but I have to renew my Driver's license in person this year and will apply for the real ID. Will I be able to hyphenate my last names or can I just leave it as is?

    • Hi Veronica. You should be able to hyphenate. It's a good idea to take your social security card, passport, and certified copy of your marriage certificate with you.

  14. Hey, I’m trying to reapply for my passport which has my maiden name listed. I never actually legally changed my name that I know of ( no one told me anything…) marriage certificate says maiden name but I still went in and changed my SS card name and added my husbands last name in the end. (I’m wondering now how they allowed that since I don’t remember doing anything else.)

    I thought the SS change Was the legal name change… so what do I do moving forward with passport application?? Do I need to try and correct my SS card back to maiden? (I’m in California) I’d prefer to go back to my maiden name but I hear it’s hard to just change the SS card anytime.

    • Hi Alina. You did legally change your name when you updated your social security card. As for your passport application, you can change your name as well or leave your name as-is. You're not required to change upon renewal.

  15. I have a property (land) in my maiden name 40 years ago. I need to sell the land, but the notoriety needs a picture ID and I do not have anything with a picture on it with my maiden name. What do I do now?

    • Hi Virginia. You can ask if they'll accept a document that links your old and new name, such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

  16. Good day,

    I got married in USA under immigrant status but I am now back in my native country. i am being petition by my husband via consular process, should I use my married name as principal applicant in the application or my name in my passport under my maiden name which I have'nt change yet and any other documents and identification.

    Thanks

  17. When I got married last July in New York State, I changed my last name to my husbands last name. It’s almost been a year and I haven’t changed any documents to reflect my new last name. I still use my maiden name for my ssc and everything else.

    Do I have to change all of these documents or can I just continue using my maiden name? Is there any penalty for not changing your documents to your new last name? Do I have to get married again to change it back so I won’t get in trouble for using my maiden name?

    • Do I have to change all of these documents or can I just continue using my maiden name?

      You can keep on using your maiden name.

      Is there any penalty for not changing your documents…

      No penalties.

      Do I have to get married again to change it back…

      Unnecessary. Do nothing and maiden name remains your legal name.

  18. I changed my legal name to my husband's last name 2 years ago when got married. I am now sending out a Debt Verification letter and the debt collector addressed me by my maiden name, which is the legal name the debt was in. Should I reply with my maiden name or married name? Or both?

    Thank you.

  19. I Am legally married but separated since 2016. My docs has my married last name but still use my maiden name since 2016. If I start an LLC can I use my maiden name? Or wait for divorce to be final?

  20. Hi, I'm a US citizen and got married in Turkey last year. I wanted to keep my last name after marriage, however Turkey law requires the woman to change her last name, and hence on my marriage certificate my last name after marriage is stated as my last name + my husband's.

    Now, I want to know if this name change applies in California, where Im a resident. I didn't file a legal name change and have been using my maiden name for all purposes and haven't changed my name on any of my documents.

    Now, I have filed a green card petition for my husband and USCIS has requested me to show a proof that I have changed my last name back to my maiden name, since I used my birth name in the application. I'm very confused what to do at this point. Would be grateful if you could help me. Will I be able to change the name on the application to my married name, but continue to use my maiden name for other purposes ?

    • Now, I want to know if this name change applies in California

      It's not automatic, nor binding.

      Will I be able to change the name on the application to my married name

      Use your marriage certificate for that.

      but continue to use my maiden name for other purposes

      Depends on the context. You mean informally?

  21. If my name on the marriage certificate uses my husband’s surname, do I have to legally change my name to his? Do I have to change ssn, license,etc. to the name listed on the marriage certificate if I don’t want to (and would prefer to use maiden name legally and married name socially)?

    • If my name on the marriage certificate uses my husband’s surname, do I have to legally change my name to his?

      No, it's not mandatory.

  22. I got married 13 years ago and hyphenated my maiden name and by husband last name. My husband is decease 7 years ago. I never change my name to my maiden name and my husband last name I remarry in 2019 and kept my maiden and hyphenated my husband last. Will there be an issue that I never used my previous hyphenated name.

    • Hi Suchia. I'm not sure of how many hyphenations you went through. One or two? Either way, I'm not certain what issue you could be facing.

      When you remarried, there's no problem with dropping your prior hyphenated name and hyphenating again with your new spouse. There's also no problem with you keeping your prior hyphenated name through remarriage.

  23. When we got married I was already a physician. At the advice of my medical mentor, (a woman I greatly admired who did the same) I kept my maiden name as my professional name and never changed my SS#.

    Socially, I changed to his last name as designated on our 2004 Minnesota Marriage license. My driver's license, passports, house, investments etc are all under my married/legal name.

    This has all worked fine for 16 years… until recently–>it was my birthday and I had to renew my driver's license. I knew I might not be able to get a REAL ID (because the name and SSN don't match), but I thought I could just renew my regular driver's license just as I had all these years and not get a REAL ID since, after all, I already have a passport that supersedes it.

    Image my surprise when the DOV/State of MN did not let me renew my driver's permit! The problem is not stemming from the IRS, but rather from a change in the law in the past year in the state of MN.

    I already contacted my company's legal department and they were of no help to me, even though this is an issue that could potentially affect my professional licensing (which I luckily just renewed with no problems) if I change the name on my social security card.

    I would really appreciate your professional help. This naming system has been working for me for 16 years! I am not eager to change my professional name – now 20 years into that brand, so to speak.

    I did contact the social security service directly and on two separate phone calls they told me it would work if I just got a social security card with both last names on it then it would solve the problem.

    I sent the proper forms and documentation to the Minneapolis social security card office and was very discouraged when they returned it to me last Friday and it didn't work like they said over the phone that it would. They wrote a little note to me that I would have to change my legal name.

    I am hoping there is still some kind of workaround. Do I have to establish a business name/identity (DBA?)? What are the other affected professional women across the country doing? Are they making all of us change our names?

    In Canada and other countries women like me are issued passports with a picture page in each name. Here I am being treated like a criminal. I feel very discriminated against. I was told years ago by the IRS that my arrangement was legal as long as there was no intent of fraud (which there obviously isn't).

    Who is correct? The two people at social security who assured me it could be done fairly easily, or the Minneapolis office who turned me down ?

    I have had no problems with my taxes or anything else. The only other problem I have had with this arrangement was that since the Patriot Act I had to close my joint bank account with my husband since the name didn't match the account SSN.

    I have kept my single bank account in my maiden name and get paid under that name as well. We file joint taxes under my maiden name (which matches the ss#) I attest to Wells Fargo (our mortgage company) that I am the same person and that the mismatch is not a mistake. The house , investments etc are in my married name.

    This new problem appears to be the result of a change in MN law. Should I be contacting my representatives? The governor? Has there been a change in federal law I am not yet aware of? This must affect hundreds if not thousands of women nationwide.

    Really appreciate your advice!

    • Also which kind of lawyer can I contact about this? It is really hard to find someone who knows what they are talking about with this other than this website!

      • All your ID's and legal documents should be in the same name, whether it be maiden or married. The informal name, used socially, is not used on official documents, just informal ones and in casual society. Driver's licenses and passports are not "social documents," they're official, legal, identity and/or citizenship ones. It's impossible to have two documented legal names.

    • The problem is not stemming from the IRS, but rather from a change in the law in the past year in the state of MN.

      Did they provide this in writing? Or point to a specific clause? The likely reason is that your driver's license is not in agreement with your social security record. It may have been fine before, but times change.

      they told me it would work if I just got a social security card with both last names on it then it would solve the problem.

      Not sure how this would have helped. The DMV could insist upon using both last names.

      They wrote a little note to me that I would have to change my legal name.

      Which means going to court.

      Do I have to establish a business name/identity (DBA?)?

      Wouldn't work for your driver's license.

      What are the other affected professional women across the country doing?

      Some are keeping their legal names maiden, while using their married name unofficially. You're doing that as well, but you've got government ID in both names, which is giving you trouble.

      I was told years ago by the IRS that my arrangement was legal as long as there was no intent of fraud (which there obviously isn't).

      They go by what's on your SS record.

      Who is correct? The two people at social security who assured me it could be done fairly easily,

      Not sure what their thought logic was.

      or the Minneapolis office who turned me down ?

      As previously stated, short of their citing a specific rule, it likely comes down to a name mismatch with your SS record.

      Has there been a change in federal law I am not yet aware of? This must affect hundreds if not thousands of women nationwide.

      You have a long-persisting name mismatch between your social security record and driver's license. This isn't likely to be a common occurrence throughout the country.

      If you haven't already, you could try to return to the DMV presenting your marriage certificate showing your married name as justification. Probably wouldn't work if they're looking to sync up with the SSA.

      The alternative is to get a court-ordered name change showing your married name to satisfy the DMV. Or just change your name on your driver's license to match your SS record and keep everything else as-is, as much as can reasonably be done. If you go this latter route, you'll want to make sure your state's licensing board is okay with it.

    • I hope you have been able to resolve this already! My mom had this issue 4 years ago and had to contact her state representative (NY) to resolve it. Fortunately he was a Latino man and not conforming automatically to husband's last name/hyphens/mother's name kept was common to him so he fought for her to do so.

      Her SSN is issued to her maiden name, she has had both on her driver's license and just maiden name. She has both or just married name on a number of other documents. It is sometimes confusing but she is at this point receiving social security/retired and has gone through several house purchases/sales like this as well as dealing with my father's insurance etc. She also got the REAL ID without a problem and I believe it is hyphenated (which she never legally changed to a hyphen…). It's definitely confusing and I don't know why anyone bothers to change their names! Oye vey!

      This kind of monotony is why many women just decide to change their name and sometimes are incorrectly informed that they must unless they fill out the marriage certificate in their maiden name.

      I would suggest calling social security again…every contact with social security is known to have a different answer so you should seek 2-3 ppl confirming the same story before you place any trust in their advice on ANY matter. The call center folks are generally better than the local office folks for knowing the particulars, but the in office face to face folks are essential to actually getting anything done. It's a lot of running around. I wish you good luck!

  24. I i can prove that my marriage is a farce, once SS changes me from my married name to my maiden name…isnt that confirmation I am no longer married?

  25. I live in the State of Michigan. In 1981 I had my last name legally changed so it would be the same as my daugher. Her dad and I were never legally married. I want to go back to using my maiden name. Can I just start using it again, or do I have to go to court?

  26. I got married to my first husband in Nigeria in 2009, I didn’t change my name legally but I took a job in his last name. We got divorced in 2018 and I’m still using his last name professionally.

    The divorce certificate was issued in his last name. I met my current spouse in July 2018 and we started cohabiting in November 2018. But we decided to legalize our union in 3rd March, 2020 in Nigeria also. The new marriage certificate is in my maiden name.

    All my particulars, job appointment letter, promotion letter, my pension statement, tax certificate, bank accounts and my international passport are in my ex husband’s name.

    My international passport is going to expire in September 2021. We are planning to immigrate to Canada and I want to be the principal applicant. I want to find out If our application will be affected if i apply for immigration in my ex husband’s name or do I need to do a change of name? Will the new marriage certificate that is in my maiden name cause any problem?

    • Hi Ebun. You can keep the name on your passport unchanged. You can also change your name during the Canadian citizenship process.

  27. I never legally changed my last name to my husband's , the only change was hyphenating his last name after my maiden name on my personal checks which I stopped doing when we were divorced.

    When we were both signing the mortgage papers I asked how I should sign because I was keeping my maiden name so should I sign with both, and I was told to sign with just my married name which I did.

    When the judge asked if I wanted to change my name I thought to myself 'I never changed it to begin with. Why would I want to change it (to his) now!? The problem is the property, which is mine, is under my married name, which is what the company that issues the mineral rights checks goes by.

    Even when I still had hypenated last names on my personal checks and additional items to support both last names my bank refused to cash them, so they have been uselessly accumulating.

    I cannot afford court costs. I do have a certified be copy of my birth certificate, and both my d.l. and my s.s. card are my maiden name, as well as my passport, although it's expired. Can I use a notary to certify my name as my maiden name on a document official enough to have my name as owner of my property changed?

    • I never legally changed my last name to my husband's

      Which makes your maiden name your current legal name.

      I was told to sign with just my married name which I did.

      You can present ID that verifies your identity. It's unlikely to be a problem. Companies deal with these name issues frequently.

      The problem is the property, which is mine, is under my married name, which is what the company that issues the mineral rights checks goes by.

      If need be, you can ask them to change it. Explain the circumstance and present valid non-expired ID showing your current name.

      Even when I still had hypenated last names on my personal checks and additional items to support both last names my bank refused to cash them, so they have been uselessly accumulating.

      That's the bank's prerogative. Some will allow the use of an alias, some won't. It's something that'll have to be worked out with the bank.

      Can I use a notary to certify my name as my maiden name on a document official enough to have my name as owner of my property changed?

      Is the company you're dealing with asking for this? Before jumping through hoops, you may want to inquire if any of this is necessary. Perhaps your divorce decree showing your current legal name would be sufficient along with a copy of your marriage certificate and picture ID.

  28. Hello I just got married and took my husband name but do I have to change my DL, ss, or passport or can I keep my maiden name? I live in California.

    • Hi Denise. You don't have to update any of your credentials, even if a new name appears on your marriage certificate. It can stay isolated to that document.

      • Hi Denise and Valera,
        I am getting married in CA, but live in IL. I would like to list my name change on my marriage license but not file it with SS/DMV until I retire. Thus retaining my maiden name. I believe doing this allows me to change my name later, without an additional court visit/fee.

        However, if I take his insurance I believe I've read that some companies will reflect the new name. Do you think this will be problematic as my ID will remain in my current name?

        TIA for all of the helpful information!

        • I believe doing this allows me to change my name later, without an additional court visit/fee.

          Correct, as name change is optional.

          if I take his insurance I believe I've read that some companies will reflect the new name

          They'll use whatever your legal name is. Otherwise, it's a false assumption on their part. Be sure they use the proper name when adding onto his policy.

          Do you think this will be problematic as my ID will remain in my current name?

          Not if they use your proper name.

  29. Hello, I was married and hyphenated my last name but the only document I changed was my SSN card and we have joint banking accounts. My ID and passport all remain in my maiden name. I am starting a new career in real estate and had to get my license in my maiden name. I am wondering first, officially which is my legal name? Second, which should I use for my business?

    • the only document I changed was my SSN card

      You can revert to your maiden name using your marriage certificate wih the SSA. It's considered a name correction. This can be useful since it's the only document you've updated.

      I am wondering first, officially which is my legal name?

      The name on your social security card. Which is the name you'd use when filing taxes.

      Second, which should I use for my business?

      Unless you're opting for a DBA in your maiden name, you'd use your married name.

  30. I will be getting married and plan to take my fiancé’s last name, but I want to keep my maiden name for professional reasons. Is it possible to do this, in reference to things like filing taxes, if I change my SSN to show his last name?

  31. Hello

    I was married before and got divorced but kept my ex’s last name for the sake of the child. I have since remarried but on the Solemnization it has my maiden name. Will this make a difference when applying for the certificate and then passport in Canada

  32. Hi.

    I would like to keep my maiden name professionally but add husband’s name to passport etc. (First, middle, husband maiden) with no hyphen. I tried to make his name part of my middle name, which SSA let me do, but DMV said I could not make his name my middle name, couldn’t change my middle name without some other court process.

    Want to have husbands name as part of mine (matching him and kids) but maintain maiden for professional reasons. My licensing board said I could continue to use maiden name. In PA; what’s the proper way to do this?

    • Hi Robin. The name on your driver's license must match what's on file with the SSA. The DMV is unlikely to budge on that matter.

      • Ironically, SSA allowed me to make the change I wanted, but DMV said that change was illegal without some other court process (marriage license wouldn’t allow me to make husband’s last as part of my middle name). Do you know what the rules are with regards to how you incorporate a married name?

        • Hi Robin. Although Pennsylvania statutes don't spell out what names are allowed after marriage, taking your spouse's or hyphenating are universally accepted. A space-separated last name is not accepted at the state-level DMV office.

          Rule of thumb, unless a state's statutes allows a surname configuration that deviates from the norm, the DMV will disallow it. You experienced success with the SSA because they're a federal agency where a spaced name is allowed in their operating manual.

  33. Hi, i was previously married and on the marriage license i changed my last name to my ex last name. However i never used it in any legal documents like I.D S.S and all that. I got a divorce in 2016 and honestly i forgot that i had changed my last name to ex's. Now i'm a going to get re married but i'm not sure what my last name would be? Will i be putting my maiden name or ex husbands even though i never used it.

  34. After marriage, I made my maiden name my 2nd middle name and took my husbands surname. 5 years later, I've decided to just have my original middle name and make my maiden plus husbands name my new last name (with no hyphen). Is a name change required through courts or can I use my marriage license to update my social security card? My given name only is on my marriage license in the state of Maryland. My name will be first name, middle, maiden + husbands name without hyphen.

  35. I am married for 10 years and we are now separated but not legally..I am using his surname in all of my documents..Can I use my maiden name again even if we are not yet annulled?

  36. Hi,
    My drivers license has always had my maiden name hyphenated with my married name. Because of the real ID, I changed my ssa card to match the drivers license to have the hyphenated name.

    If I want to drop the maiden name on both the drivers license and ssa card do I have to go through the courts for a name change, or can I just show my marriage license showing only my married name?

    A lot of my papers are under my married name only, does that present problems down the road? I live in California.

    • do I have to go through the courts for a name change

      Yes, you'll have to go to court to remove your maiden name.

      lot of my papers are under my married name only

      It depends. You're using your name inconsistently so problems can arise. For instance, if your social security card has one name and you apply for a job using another, a background check will throw a name mismatch flag.

  37. I never changed my name on my social security card after i got married, can my husband receive my social security survivors benefits?, I live in NYC

  38. Hi,
    I was talking about name changes with my SO and I want to take his last name when we got married but I wasn't sure how long after I have to legally change my last name on DL, SSN, debit/credit cards.

    We wanted to get married through the court first and then have a ceremony maybe a year later. Can I still use my maiden name documents for everything as is until the actual wedding or do I have to change my last name legally right away? Will I be charged if I go and change it afterwards?

    • I wasn't sure how long after I have to legally change my last name

      There's no minimum/maximum time frame.

      Can I still use my maiden name documents for everything

      You'd use it until your name change is done.

      or do I have to change my last name legally right away?

      No, there's no timeline to abide by. Take as much time as you need.

      Will I be charged if I go and change it afterwards?

      I don't know what you're referring to here.

  39. I got married in November. At the time I wasn't sure I wanted to take his last name. On the license we filled out we indicated that after marriage my name would stay the same, but now we are discussing that I will be taking his name. I obviously haven't changed anything, and we have out certificate. Can I just start using his name now and changing things over even though when we had applied for our license we at first indicated that I wouldn't change my name?

    • Hi Abby. Which state did the marriage take place in? I ask because in the few states that ask you to choose a new last name, not choosing could block you from changing it later.

        • Hi Abby. Maine updated their intentions of marriage application in September 2019. They added a new name after marriage line. Unfortunately, since you left the new name line blank, you will have to go to court to change your name.

          • Hello, I am in a similar situation. I realized after the wedding I would have liked to hyphen my name instead of getting rid of my maiden name. I got married in NYC. Do you have any advice?

          • Hi Ally. You can look into a remarriage license (it's the same as a regular license), get remarried, then use the subsequent certificate to change your name.

  40. I have been married since 1991 and took my husbands name. I have legally changed my name and all documents to his last name after our marriage and now many years later I am wanting to use my maiden name in certain instances. Such as applying to job applications, or any schooling or use it professionally.

    We are still married and I sign all legal documents with my married name, but can I just start using my maiden name? Will it be considered an alias?

    The reason I am wanting to do this is to separate my legal last name from some negative family related things that have occurred and I have found that people automatically associate me with.

    • now many years later I am wanting to use my maiden name in certain instances

      Since you've changed your name on all documents, you'd have to get a court order to practically return to your maiden name.

      Such as applying to job applications, or any schooling or use it professionally.

      SSN look-ups and job-related background checks will try to match your married name. If you're going this route, be sure to tell your prospective employer about your name differential.

      reason I am wanting to do this is to separate my legal last name from some negative family related things that have occurred

      Completely understandable. A court-ordered name change is certainly a valid option.

  41. Hello!

    We got married and I took my husband’s name. I had not changed any documents like work authorization, DL or SSC to my husband’s name yet. We have to go through immigration process to get my GC. My question is can I use my maiden name for now and use it when I'm filling any immigration documents (but I have to send copy of our marriage certificate to USCIS with my husband’s name as my new name) and if I allowed to do this what name will I have on my GC ?
    Thank you!

  42. Hi, when I got married, I changed my last name to my last name on the marriage license. However, I haven't changed any other official documents including my Social Security card since that one change.But they took my maiden name off my dL and I don’t know how to get them to put it back on there that’s what I go by

    • Hi Kay. If your new name only appears on your marriage license, how did it affect your driver's license? Did you update that document and now looking to undo it?

  43. I am applying for global entry. I have never legally changed my last name but I do use my husbands name unofficially sometimes. Should I include that as an alias on my application?

  44. I married in 1991. I did not legally change my name. I "assumed" my husband's last name and acquired a driver's license and passport that contained my maiden name and my husband's last name.

    The IRS and SSA, along with land titles, trust accounts, my birth certificate, and marriage license reflect my maiden name, which I have always believed (and still do) was my legal name.

    In my attempt to comply with the strict REAL ID rules that go into effect in October 2020, in February of 2019, I applied for, and received, a driver's license with my maiden name.

    In October 2019, I applied for passport renewal and a name change to reflect my maiden name. A Seattle Passport Agency adjudicator has told me that "as far as they [the agency] are concerned, the name on my passport is my legal name" and the only way I can receive a passport with my maiden name is to change my name legally – a $450 filing fee and $250 for 4 weeks publishing cost.

    I provided (and paid for) the Agency with certified copies of my marriage license and birth certificate, and because "certified original" documents do not exist, I sent copies of my tax returns, social security statements, assessor tax statements, original social security card – going back five years – all of which reflect my maiden name.

    If I change my name legally to include my husband's last name, every other legal document will become incorrect, invalid, or illegal. Do you have any advice other than to accept a denial, re-apply and hope I get an adjudicator that can appropriately apply logic and discretion which they have the authority to do, as stated in the U.S. Foreign Affairs manual?

    • Hi Stasia. You've got nothing to lose by trying again. The problem is you're trying to execute another name change without a subsequent name change event (e.g., marriage, divorce, court order).

    • You may be able to apply for a brand new passport in person (not a renewal or change of name) at an acceptance facility using form DS-11. If you have legal ID and a birth certificate in your maiden name they should be able to process the application. If you have an old expired passport in your maiden name, take that along too.

  45. I married 6 year ago with my main name I have to kids my main name . When I go to citizenship I get my husband surname When I receive my citizen certificate they not give me any court order when I updated my social security is going to any problem. I any to use his surname or going to need court order to change all on my car loan banks and driver license everything. Or can still use my main last nam.e Or I need to to change my citizen to my main last names i still can make change I don’t want to change all my documents to his surname

    • When I go to citizenship I get my husband surname When I receive my citizen certificate they not give me any court order

      You don't need a court order.

      when I updated my social security is going to any problem.

      No.

      I any to use his surname or going to need court order to change all on my car loan banks and driver license

      No, you'd use your marriage certificate.

      I don’t want to change all my documents to his surname

      You don't have to change your name on any document. It's not a requirement for marriage or citizenship.

  46. I was married a year ago in a different state than I reside in..I told officials that I wanted to keep my maiden name..they said no problem..alot of people do that. But the marriage license has the full married name on it. I never changed anything at all from my maiden to married because I never had any intentions of doing so. Am I OK in just leaving everything alone? I dont want anything to change..banking, business,personal taxes medical, etc…I choose to keep and be known as my maiden name only..

    • Am I OK in just leaving everything alone? I dont want anything to change.

      Of course. You don't have to change. Do nothing and your name stays the same.

  47. I'm a police officer in NJ. If/when I marry I would like to legally change my name to his (he's traditional and his last name means a lot to him) but I would like to keep using my maiden name when I'm working as an officer because that's how people know me, and how I have established myself in my career. Am I allowed to professionally use a different last name as a police officer?

    I was previously married and when I divorced I got constant questions from people asking why my name changed, or congratulating me on my marriage and it was awkward to tell them I'd gotten divorced instead. Or people saying they didn't want to deal with me because they no longer recognized my name and thought I was a different officer. I'd rather just avoid the issue altogether.

    • Hi Valerie. This would be up to your workplace. If they allow it, you're fine. In what capacity would they allow use of your maiden name? The alternative is to keep your maiden name legally and professionally, while using your married name socially.

      • In all aspects. I would legally have his last name, but I would identify myself as my last name when speaking with the public, signing my reports and any official documents with my last name. I just don't know if that's allowed.

        Example, if I go to court to testify and they ask me to state my name for the record, stating myself as my maiden name would be considered perjury…? Unless I say my correct legal name, but state that professionally I use my maiden name…?

        • Hi Valerie. Rule of thumb, use your legal name for legal purposes, unless you get clearance otherwise. If your workplace has no problem with it, you're fine. But, they'll need your real legal name on file for tax purposes.

  48. Hi , I changed my last name to my married name during naturalization. Now I feel I should use my maiden name and kind of feel lost with out it. How can I change my name on naturalization and passport to my maiden name .Please advise .

  49. I live in CA and added my husband’s last name on my driver license. Everything else, including social security and passport show my maiden last name. Can I remove my husband’s last name from my driver’s license?

    • Hi Ana. You would have to present another name change document. It's unlikely you'd be allowed to reuse your marriage certificate. Otherwise, folks would be performing reversions on a continual basis.

      • Another name change document like a court document? Or can I show my social security card and passport showing my maiden last name?

        • Another name change document like a court document?

          Correct.

          Or can I show my social security card and passport showing my maiden last name?

          That wouldn't count as a name change document.

  50. Hello,
    I have been married for over 12 years and have kept my maiden name professionally but my legal name is my husband's name. I have recently just started a new job & I am being told that they cannot change my email address to my maiden name on outgoing emails. My display name will show as my maiden name and if I give my clients my email address which displays my maiden name (they gave me a second email tied to the legal email address) I will receive it. I find this is going to get confusing when my clients save my contact info from my outgoing email.
    I hate to use the word discrimination but that is how I feel right now.
    I am in Massachusetts. Is there any legally that they have to respect my choice?

    • Hi Patty. Is this a written policy? You may very well have to consult an attorney. Could you work around it? Use your own email address separate from the company?

      Now, let's take a step back and look at this from a technical perspective. You say they gave you a second email address with your preferred name, which forwards mail to your non-preferred email address.

      As I understand it, you're concerned your replies to clients will reveal your hidden intermediary address, which will confuse clients? If that's the case, you should be able to modify the settings within your email client to change the recipient profiles of incoming mail.

      I don't know what mail program is your end point, but there may be a configuration solution on your end.

  51. I have been married for over 2 years and on my marriage certificate I took my husbands last name. I have not changed my name yet on my SS card, DL, etc. I still have my maiden name on these, but I do intend to change my name to my husbands last name.

    We are having our first baby any day now, and I would like to put my husbands last name as my last name on the birth certificate (my married last name that is on my marriage certificate). Can I do this, or do I need to put my maiden name, as I have not updated my SS, etc. with my name on my marriage certificate?

    • Can I do this, or do I need to put my maiden name, as I have not updated my SS, etc.

      Yes, you can put your maiden name. It's possible that your maiden name will be required. Some states allow both your maiden and married name.

  52. I got married a few years ago and changed my last name. I have since gotten divorced and I am now changing my last name back to my maiden name. I still have my passport with my maiden name on it, since I never got it changed or a new one. Can I still use that once my name gets legally changed back to my maiden name since that is the name on it, or did it become invalid when my last name changed after getting married?

    • Can I still use that once my name gets legally changed back to my maiden name since that is the name on it

      Yes, it's still valid. There's nothing that needs modifying.

  53. Hi,
    I have been divorced 3 years but did not go back to my maiden name at that time. I still have my maiden name as my middle name and my ex’s last name (on drivers license, nursing license and ss card). My question is can I legally use just my maiden name when cashing paychecks etc or do I need to have it legally changed through the court ? Thank you

    • can I legally use just my maiden name when cashing paychecks etc or do I need to have it legally changed through the court ?

      That's the bank's prerogative to accommodate. If they will, both names (legal and alias/maiden) should be on file.

  54. If you add your husband's name at the end of your last name after marriage, will checks to you have to be written out using those two names or either one once you change your name with Social security and your bank?

    • will checks to you have to be written out using those two names or either one once you change your name with Social security and your bank?

      That's up to your bank. They may be able to accommodate either name as long as both are on file. You'll also want to inquire on which name must be endorsed.

  55. Hello. I've got my passport long ago when I still lived in the US. I moved to Russia to study. Got married in Russia in 2014. So I have a Russian marriage certificate. Changed my last name to my husbands on all my Russian documents including my Russian passport.

    Last year changed my US passport because it was expired but didn't change my last name to my husbands because I was told that I don't need to do that. Now I'm thinking that the information was wrong.

    How can I change my last name to my husbands if my marriage certificate is Russian? Do I need to get it translated somewhere? Can I do all this online or I have to fly to the US and change it in person?

    Also, I have three kids that were born in Russia (all three under the age of five). My husband is Russian and he does not have an US passport but I do. Can my kids get US passports? If yes then how? Do I need to translate their birth certificates? And in their birth certificates my last name is the one that I got from my husband and my kids also have that last name. But in my American passport I have my old last name. I am a little confused about all this and don't know what to do!

    And more questions. If I can get my kids a US passport do I have to get them visas to fly to America and than in person with the kids fill in all the applications to get them the passports? Or can I do all this without the kids? Or can I not fly to the states and just do everything online?

    • How can I change my last name to my husbands if my marriage certificate is Russian? Do I need to get it translated somewhere?

      It must be professionally translated to English. The translation must be certified and notarized. The translator has to vouch for the accuracy of their translation.

      Can I do all this online or I have to fly to the US and change it in person?

      You can. Translator location isn't important. As long as your translator and translation is reputable, you're fine.

      Can my kids get US passports?

      They can if they're U.S. citizens.

      If yes then how?

      See children below age 16 on the State Dept. website.

      Do I need to translate their birth certificates?

      Show proof of citizenship. It doesn't have to be a birth certificate.

      And in their birth certificates my last name is the one that I got from my husband and my kids also have that last name. But in my American passport I have my old last name. I am a little confused about all this and don't know what to do!

      That's fine.

      If I can get my kids a US passport do I have to get them visas to fly to America and than in person with the kids fill in all the applications to get them the passports?

      You can apply at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

      Or can I do all this without the kids? Or can I not fly to the states and just do everything online?

      They must be with you.

  56. Hello
    Have a question, I’m a married lady but still my documents is single I haven’t change yet, and now I need to renew my passport…
    What will I write in my status? Single or married? Because I don’t like to change my maiden name…

    From Philippines married here in hongkong

  57. Hi, I was really torn on the issue but ultimately decided to change my last name to match my husband's. This is reflected on our marriage license. However now I am heavily regretting my decision and want to keep my maiden name.

    The only steps I have completed to change my name to his are the SSA and my health/life insurance at work. From all the comments I'm reading, it sounds like I would have been fine to keep my maiden name for the rest of my life if I hadn't done anything.

    I am glad I haven't gone to the DMV yet or changed it on my passport. I think it would be fairly easy to change last name back to my maiden name on my health/life insurance but do you know if I can go back to the SSA and change it back to my maiden name?

    Or if I even need to do this? It costs so much to "legally" change it back through a court process so I am hoping I can just live my life with my maiden name even though that isn't what is on our marriage certificate.

    My worry is that since I changed it with the SSA that I now have to change it at the DMV and on my password since it is in the "system"…

    • However now I am heavily regretting my decision and want to keep my maiden name.

      You still have options available. Read on…

      it sounds like I would have been fine to keep my maiden name for the rest of my life if I hadn't done anything.

      True.

      I think it would be fairly easy to change last name back to my maiden name on my health/life insurance

      Probably worth verifying beforehand.

      but do you know if I can go back to the SSA and change it back to my maiden name?

      Yes, you could reverse your name change on your social security card using the same marriage certificate you used to change it. Review the name corrections section on the social security name change article for how this works.

      My worry is that since I changed it with the SSA that I now have to change it at the DMV and on my password since it is in the "system"

      If you ever renew or replace your driver's license, you'd have to update the name. You could renew your passport in your maiden name regardless of what you choose to do.

      • Hi, I followed your advice and reviewed the name corrections section on the social security name change article. I was excited to be able to reverse it back to my maiden name but unfortunately it didn’t work.

        Here is what I did. I filled out the SSA’s name change form (form SS-5) and mailed it to my local SSA office, along with an official copy of my marriage certificate. I assumed this would be good enough proof of identity and assumed I didn’t need to include proof of citizenship since this was just a name correction.

        I wrote them a note explaining what I wanted and that this was just a name correction back to my maiden name.

        Unfortunately I got it back in the mail a week later and they included a paper saying I needed a court order for a name change.

        I really want to correct my name back to my maiden name. Can you tell me if I did something wrong? Should I try again in person perhaps? I live in Oregon if that is helpful. Thank you!!

        • Hi Rachel. What you're reporting has also been reported by others. The name correction is documented on the SSA's online operations manual. You can see reference 1 and reference 2.

          We corresponded with someone who faced a similar situation as yours. Went in person and was told a court order was required. We noted the two references, she printed it out, then went back to try again. Supervisor ultimately relented, begrudgingly changing her name back to what it was. They called it a name reversal instead of correction.

          This appears to be an obscure (yet documented) allowance that is causing many double-takes. If someone comes in with such a rare request without documentation to back it up, they can face what you faced.

          We'll be updating the SSA article shortly to further elaborate on these points.

          • Oh wow okay, I will try again but this time include the policies as “proof.” I am glad there are actual policies I can show them! Thank you so much for sharing what you know.

        • Same exact thing just happened to me in Minnesota.
          The social security service on the phone told me it would work,
          sent in all the documents and the local office sent everything back with a similar note. Appreciate advice below> will try again!

  58. I got married 2 years ago. It took me a year to change my name to my husband's name; however, I want to use my maiden name at work. Since I legally changed it my place of work will NOT allow me to use my maiden name. Now I am considering going to court and using both last names (maiden and married) without the hyphen. What are the rules to 2 last names? Do I have to change all my credit cards, bank statements, etc.?

    • Now I am considering going to court and using both last names (maiden and married) without the hyphen.

      That wouldn't be a problem.

      What are the rules to 2 last names?

      There are no special rules for a space-separated surname. You may look at it as a double last name, but it's considered a single last name.

      When you notify your place of work of your double last name, you'll likely be in the same boat where they'll only recognize you by your complete last name.

      Would they accept the use of referring to you by your maiden name even with your new dual last name on record? If so, would they acknowledge that in writing. If not, would they accommodate the use of an alias instead?

      Do I have to change all my credit cards, bank statements, etc.?

      Not if you don't want to. Keep in mind, once you update your social security card or even one credit card, that information will eventually bubble up to your credit report.

      When you apply for a new credit card or bank account, loan, etc, you'll have to use your full legal last name.

      • They refuse to let me use an alias. They also refuse if I change my middle name to maiden name to acknowledge it. I work as a teacher and have heard my maiden name a long time….but my husband dislikes the idea of even me changing to 2 last names without the hyphen.

        I have no problem using just my married name in my personal life but professionally I want the maiden name. There must be a solution….I can't possibly be the only one who feels this way??

        • Hi Carolina. Unless your place of employment allows the use of your maiden name informally, it's not clear what your available option would be short of changing your name back to your maiden name and using your married name informally.

  59. Hi im married for almost 2 years. can i still use my maiden name in business name registration? only my passport not yet change. is that possible?

    • can i still use my maiden name in business name registration?

      You'd use your current legal name to register, but there's nothing stopping you from registering a DBA in your non-married name.

  60. My maiden name is still on my car registration. I have not paid the car off yet. My insurance card has my married name and vin # on it. The reg is paid up. Is it illegal to drive my car with my maiden name on the reg card? My DL and Social Security card have my married name on them.
    I live in Ca.

  61. I recently got married (2nd marriage-kept my married name for my child). I want to change my name back to my maiden name, but the marriage license states my previous married name. Can I make this change at social security, DMV, etc. or is there something more I need to do? I live in Arizona.

    • I want to change my name back to my maiden name, but the marriage license states my previous married name.

      That's fine. Use a certified copy of your marriage certificate. You can review the Arizona name change page for more information.

      Can I make this change at social security, DMV, etc. or is there something more I need to do?

      There's nothing more to do.

  62. hi,
    I added my husband's last name on the marriage certificate bu I don't want to change any of my IDs (passport, Driver Licence) or and of the bank documents. Would it be possible if my new last name only appears on the marriage licence? Would It it be a problem? especially when I travel internationally? Would I experience any problems?

    • Would it be possible if my new last name only appears on the marriage licence?

      Yes, you don't have to change your name.

      Would It it be a problem? especially when I travel internationally? Would I experience any problems?

      It won't be a problem. Make sure the name on your travel tickets matches the name on your passport.

  63. Hi,

    I just got married and would like to change my last name to my husband's. I know I will need to update my SSN card and driver's license. My passport doesn't expire for 4 years. Do I have to update my passport now with my new last name or can I wait until I renew it? If I wait, will I have to buy plane tickets with my maiden so it matches my passport?

    • Do I have to update my passport now with my new last name or can I wait until I renew it?

      You can wait.

      If I wait, will I have to buy plane tickets with my maiden so it matches my passport?

      Yes.

  64. My wife booked a room with a credit card in her maiden name. Her current ID has her married name. She has her old ID with her maiden name, but its expired and out of state. Do you think there will be any issues upon check in ?

    • Hi Justin. That's entirely up to the establishment's policies, but it's unlikely to be problem since your wife's bringing before and after ID. It's also a good idea to bring a copy of the marriage certificate.

  65. Hi I got married last month, I hyphenated my and my husband’s last name on my wedding certificate, can I use my maiden name as legal name without changing it when I renew my passport, drivers license, and ss? Or do I have to use the name on the certificate?

    • can I use my maiden name as legal name without changing it when I renew my passport, drivers license, and ss?

      You can continue using your maiden name if it's your current legal name.

      Or do I have to use the name on the certificate?

      You're not obligated to change your name to match what's on your marriage certificate.

      • Does changing my last name on the wedding certificate, become my legal name? Can I renew my license and passport with my current name, not my marriage license name?

        • Does changing my last name on the wedding certificate, become my legal name?

          No.

          Can I renew my license and passport with my current name, not my marriage license name?

          Yes.

  66. My family Mediclaim policy is having my wife's name, maidan surname and my surname would it affect policy claims as her official name ends with her maiden surname

    • Hi Kunal. You'll want to contact your insurance provider about the potential of a name mismatch affecting medical claims acceptance.

  67. I was married 4yrs but did not change my maiden name on any docs, nor use my married name.
    Please, what should I answer when asked on passport form
    (was I known by any other name?)

    • Hi Joann. You'd put any prior legal name you've had. You wouldn't include your married name, since you never formally changed it.

  68. I'm engaged, but my fiance wants me to relocate to dubai with him. We'll be getting married there in dubai. My maiden name is on my passport, but he wants me to change my passport name to his surname. Is it necessary to change the name on my passport to his surname before leaving for dubai? Can't i change it when i get to dubai?

    • Is it necessary to change the name on my passport to his surname before leaving for dubai? Can't i change it when i get to dubai?

      You can wait to change it once you reach Dubai. Make sure your airline ticket matches the name on your existing passport.

  69. Hi,

    My daughter has 2 middle names. We are from the US and her fiance is from the UK. She is getting married and will be immediately moving to her husband's country as they both seek dual citizenship.

    She would like to keep her name last and take his name as either a second last name or an additional middle name. For example (not real names):

    Maiden name: Ann Betty Carol Davis

    Future desired married name: Ann Betty Carol EATON Davis

    It says her full current name with both middle names on her passport.

    His last name after her last name doesn't sound great, so she's trying to avoid it

    She would like to keep things as simple as possible, but still wants to take his name as part of her name, possibly even being refered to as Mrs. Eaton Davis or Ann Eaton Davis. Can it be a second last name

    What would be the easiest way to go about adding his name before her surname? And in what capacity could she use that name?

    • Hi Jennifer. If your daughter is marrying in the U.S., her options vary depending on where the marriage will take place. Two questions that'll help clarify things… Do you know which state the marriage will take place? Does she plan to maintain U.S. citizenship, become a U.K. citizen, or obtain dual citizenship?

  70. I am married but I am still using my maiden name in College.

    Now, I am planning to travel abroad but my school information is different from my passport details because I am using my married name in the passport.

    the reasons why I did not use my married name first is that we are now separted, and the school which I am attending now is the last school I attended in 2007. So I intended not to change it.

    How should I write the explanation of using my maiden name at school for getting the visa?

    • Hi April. Carry a certified copy of your marriage certificate with you to explain the name difference if asked. If you have identity papers in your married and maiden name, it doesn't hurt to bring them along as well.

  71. Hello Valera,

    First of all, Thank you for this great website and for taking the time to answer us.

    What I understand, (living in NYC) I can get married and add as a new surname the name of my future husband on the mariage certificate but I don't need to change it right away on my SSn, ID, etc… I wanted to wait for a year after our religious ceremony just to make it more official for us as it is what matters to us!

    It won't be a problem for my taxes or salary or anything else like that until I do the change to SSN in a year?

    • I can get married and add as a new surname the name of my future husband on the mariage certificate but I don't need to change it right away

      That's right, you don't have to change it right away.

      I wanted to wait for a year after our religious ceremony

      You can wait as long as you need.

      It won't be a problem for my taxes or salary or anything else like that until I do the change to SSN in a year?

      It won't be a problem. You'd continue filing taxes in your current name.

  72. I just received my divorce decree and my maiden name has been granted, however I really don't want to go through the hassle of changing my name on everything. Do I have to change it on everything or can I continue to use my married name and change things gradually.

    • Do I have to change it on everything or can I continue to use my married name and change things gradually.

      You don't have to change your name after divorce, regardless of what's on your divorce decree.

  73. Good Morning. My son and his girlfriend of 10 years plan to get married in the next 2 years. My son wants her to take his last name. Because she has been in the military for 4 years she feels that she has developed a professional name for herself and wants to keep her maiden name. We live in North Carolina.

    My question is: If she takes his last name when they are married, can she legally continue to use her maiden name professionally? If so, how does that look or work? Other than the marriage license changing her last name, would she be required to change any other documents and if so which ones. How does banking, insurance and all of the other stuff fall into place.

    • If she takes his last name when they are married, can she legally continue to use her maiden name professionally?

      The name entered in DEERS would have to match what's on her social security record.

      If so, how does that look or work?

      A DBA could be used for a typical business. She could request the use of an alias.

      Other than the marriage license changing her last name, would she be required to change any other documents

      A name change shown on the marriage license or certificate doesn't obligate her to change her name. It's an option.

      and if so which ones.

      Social security card, driver's license, military ID, passport, among others. Her marriage certificate is proof of name change.

      How does banking, insurance and all of the other stuff fall into place.

      She'd notify them as well.

  74. Hi,
    When I became a citizen I changed back to my maiden name. I now regret this change because my identity is my married name even though I’m divorced. My mortgage, social security, college degree etc. bears my married name. I also didn’t update my citizenship status with SSA. I’m now planning to remarry my fiancé from another country. Can I file a petition for my spouse using my former married name or do I have to use the name on my citizenship certificate?

    • I also didn’t update my citizenship status with SSA.

      One problem you're likely to face is when you update your citizenship status with the SSA you'll have to provide your certificate of naturalization. There will be a name mismatch.

      Can I file a petition for my spouse using my former married name or do I have to use the name on my citizenship certificate?

      Could you clarify who you're petitioning?

  75. Hi, passport bears the name “First name, maiden middle name, maiden last name-husband’s last name”.
    Q: Can a bank account be opened under “First name,maiden last name, husband’s last name?”
    Thank u.
    Location: Philippines

    • Hi Essel. That's up to the bank. However, they may require the use of your legal name within their system, while printing your preferred name on checks, materials, letters, etc.

  76. I married in March of this year and one month later I changed my name where my middle name now includes my maiden and I took my husband's last name. This change was done at the social security office, NCDMV, and my workplace.

    I really would like to change this sequence where my maiden name is coupled with my married name to be my last name. Can this change be done at the social security office or would I have to go through the courts?

    • Can this change be done at the social security office or would I have to go through the courts?

      Since you've already changed your married name once with Social Security, you'll have to go through the courts to change it again.

    • When I became a US citizen I changed my name. Is my old name (birth name) still valid?

      No, your legal name has changed from birth to what's on your citizenship document.

  77. Can I legally in Wisconsin go back to my maiden name after being divorced for 5 years and hes gotten remarried without a big hassle

    • Can I legally in Wisconsin go back to my maiden name after being divorced for 5 years

      You can if your divorce decree has restored your maiden name. The SSA would technically still allow a restoration without it being ordered in your decree, but other government institutions might not.

  78. I am getting married in a few weeks (Missouri). I have had my current last name for over 40 years. My new husband wants me to take his last name, which I am willing to do (we are in our 70s).

    I believe I have read somewhere that I can be Mary Jones, Mary Smith or Mary Jones Smith. I hate the idea of having to change my name on so many things. Is this correct?

    If so, are there any documents that I absolutely have to change? Drivers license, Soc. Sec., Medicare etc. I am assuming I can add his name to my checking account and leave my name as is.

    What about adding name to his checking account? To many questions at this stage of the game. Any information would be helpful. Thank you.

    • hate the idea of having to change my name on so many things. Is this correct?

      If Jones or Smith is your current name, then yes with the SSA. Probably not with the DMV.

      If so, are there any documents that I absolutely have to change?

      You don't have to change anything. You could use the name informally without changing a document. If you do update your social security card, you should change your driver's license to match, along with banking.

      What about adding name to his checking account?

      Your surnames don't have to match to do that.

  79. Hi Valera,
    I got married 6 months back in Nepal. Our court marriage certificate from Nepal has the same last name as my maiden name. I already have Citizenship and passport with my maiden name. My husband is a United States citizen and he filed immigration forms using my maiden name. I was wondering at what point of time I could change my maiden name to his last name? And what would be the procedures?

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