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:
- You change your name after marriage.
- 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.
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.
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.
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.
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…
Navigating the tricky transition
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.
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.
While you're at it, if you have a hyphenated name, go the extra mile by ensuring your bank accepts three name variations:
- Your maiden name
- Your hyphenated name
- 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
3. Legal disclosure obligations
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.
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 your "real name"
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Good morning-
I got married in Oct of 2016 my marriage certificate has my husbands last name. I have not changed my last name with SS as of yet, nor have i renewed my drivers license which is up for renewal as of this month.
1. Is it feasible for me to renew my drivers licenses in my maiden name. 2. For professional reasons I would like to continue to use my last name and my married name. Is this doable? If so how should i sign legal documents?
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Yes, as I presume your current name is still your maiden name.
You could use it informally.
Legal documents must be signed using your current legal name.
I do not want to change my name w/social security because I don't want to change my name on professional licenses. However I do want to change my name on my driver's license and go by my married name socially. Is that ok? And if so, can I still sign the marriage license with my husband's name?
In most cases, you must change your name with the SSA before updating your driver's license. This is because the driver's license office may perform a lookup against the SSA database and a name mismatch will be flagged.
Are you referring to the marriage license application or the certificate of marriage?
Hi im jelly i was separated with my husband..then now i want to use again my maiden name…what would i do..???
Hi Jelly. If you're only separated, and not divorced, you'll have to petition the court to restore your maiden name.
Hi valera…i got married 2 years ago but i haven't yet change my surname in all my documents(sss, passport, philhealth etc.)maybe i'll change it when i have time but for now i am applying for work in government institution and requires me to fill up application form..will i use my maiden surname or my husband's surname..one more thing that bothers me is that will i write single or married in "civil status"?..thank you in advance!
Maiden name.
Well, your true status is married, so that's what would make sense.
I married last year and changed my name on the marriage certificate. From there I only changed it with the DMV but haven't with Social Security nor my passport. Can I still keep my maiden with the two latter documents or do I need to change it to my married name?
Hi Roxanna. You aren't required to change it, but when it comes time to renew your driver's license you'll be facing a name mismatch problem.
Hello,
I am thinking of keeping my maiden name and adding his last name to it, without the hyphen, when we get married. I understand that I would be able to use the last names interchangeably and would like to continue to use my maiden name at work to make things easier. I do know that I would have to sign all legal documents with both last names. I am a notary at work so I know I would have to sign both last names for that. I am a signer on the checking account at work as well and I am wondering if I could continue to sign my maiden name when I sign checks or would I have to sign both last names? Thank you in advance!
That's up to your bank/employer. You'll have to consult with them.
I've been divorced for 12 years. Now that my girls are married- I want to go back to my maiden name. Does this affect alimony checks, getting ex's social security at 62+? Could I still cash checks that are in my married name once I change I change my name? Do I have to change everything/ my mortgage too?
Can you have 2 names- legally married name and maiden!
Yes, you typically can. The details would have to be worked out with your bank. They may want you to endorse the check with both your married and maiden name.
It's a good idea to update your records to reflect your legal name. The consequence for not doing so varies between institutions.
No, you can only have one legal name at a time.
Hello. I am a widow for many years. When I married, I did the hyphenated thing and added his last name. I never changed things with SS. Since then, I dropped his last name on my Illinois DL by showing his death certificate. In 4 years I will apply for his SS benefits. Am I legit? Thanks.
Hi Chris. Not changing your name with the SSA does not invalidate a previous marriage, if that's what you're asking. If you're referring to something else, please clarify.
Hey my name is leena and I have a bank account on my maiden name and my aadhar card is after marriage name and due to strict rules we need to link aadhar to bank account I don't know what to do.
Hi Leena. Have you contacted your bank to update your name?
I was married in 2015. Second marriage. Changed my name to current husband's on social security, nothing else. I changed my mind and would like to go back to my first husband's last name. What do I need to do? I just recently renewed my passport with first husband's name with no problem.
Hi Rosemary. In order to change it with the SSA, you'd have to get a court order.
Hello,
I am confused what to do.i am filipina married to a us citizen for almost a year now and updated some of my documents valid I.ds . My problem is we wants to apply for a visa. Would it be okay if my passport is still under my maiden name while most of my valid ids are updated ( husband's surname).? Thanks in advance.
Hi Annek. You can keep your passport name as-is, although you may want to look into filing an surname affidavit of discrepancy.
Hello, I am hoping you can answer my question. My mother, in her creative glory gave me a two word first name, middle name, and last name. Ex (not my name): Jane Rae Jones Smith. My credit report shows inquiries from 6 variations of my name, the most common being the spacing between the 2nd word of my first name and my middle name ex: Jane Raejones Smith. When I filled out the marriage certificate I opted to lose the Rae and Jones and change it to "rose" but I haven't been to the dmv or ss office to do so, all my documentation have stayed the same. My broker took it upon himself, even though I told him it wasn't changed yet, to put Jane Rae Lynn *husbands last name* on all of our documents for the loan. At first I was hoping I could just bring in the marriage license with the name change on it for them to view, but the name listed for "after marriage" doesn't have the 'Rae Lynn' on it. What is going to happen to this? Are we going to have to redo our loan?
First name change using your marriage certificate isn't possible.
That's not important, as name change on a marriage certificate isn't binding. You don't have to follow through with it.
Name misspellings can be a problem. This shouldn't be ignored. Contact your broker to determine if a fix is necessary.
Hello,
I am hoping someone can help me out here. I got married 3 years ago, I have changed my name on my social security but have not updated my driver's license in CA. Is this going to be a problem? I also file my taxes jointly with my husband as my new married name which matches my social security but does not match my driver's license..
Hi Sunny. You're fine, but you'll have to change it when it's time to renew.
Hi Im in Canada gave birth to a baby boy.I did the registration online 4 in 1 package at present after 2 weeks I recieved a letter from the Registration office saying Mothers name at the time of baby birth. I used my maiden name to register online for my baby and as of now still using my ex husbands name. They asked my social insurance # too during the registration.Do u think it will affect my papers here as Im still using my married name? Its just these one I used my maiden name for registering my baby online.Thanks in advance.
Hi Lene. You're fine. You're allowed to use your maiden name or current name when registering your child's birth.
Hello, I have seen a lot of women using their maiden name hyphenated with their married name. This seems to be fad or trend. I am wondering if that practice is legal.
If not, what legal repercussions could they encounter?
Hi Mary. Hyphenation is legal.
Hi im currently seperated from my husband i want to call my self by my maiden name can i just do so or do i have to do it leagly
Hi Wendy. Such usage would only be informal. In legal contexts you'll want to continue use your current name.
I have been divorced for over 20 years and would like to go back to using my maiden name. I kept my married name so my children and I would have the same last name. Now they are grown and I would like my maiden name back. What do I have to do to make that legal?
Hi Penny. If your divorce decree included an order restoring your maiden name, then you could use that document to effect a name change. Otherwise, you'll have to petition the court.
Hi there,
I'd like to get married and change my last name to my spouse's on the marriage certificate… however, we are traveling in a month abroad for the summer and I'm not sure I'll have enough time to change my name on my passport, ss, and other necessary documents… if I change my name on the marriage certificate, but keep my maiden name on all other documents for the time being– would that cause problems during my travels abroad? Should we just wait to get married when we return? Thank you for your help! I can't find this answer anywhere.
No.
You can get married now and just wait to change your identification after your travels.
You don't change your name on the marriage license. You change your name through the process of updating your driver's license and social security records. The process is relatively easy, and the primary delay will be related caused by the amount of time it takes for your license to be processed and recorded by your officiant and the record keeper. You do not have to complete this process in any particular time frame. You can wait 10 years after your marriage if you want.
If you are traveling soon after your wedding you should wait until after your trip to change your passport because updating your passport will require you to return your old passport and wait for an updated copy to be mailed back to you. This can take about 6 – 8 weeks. Your passport will still be valid in the meantime.
I will be getting married in October and I want to keep my maiden name & add my husbands last name to it. What I wanted to know is whether my future kids have to take my hyphenated last name or whether they can take just my husbands last name. And whether this will create any issues with school paper work since the kids wont have my exact last name. Also, will my legal signature on formal documents have to have my full hyphenated last name? or can I initial my maiden name & write out my husbands last name?
Either.
It's not likely to be much of an issue.
Full legal name.
Thank you for your feedback, I also came across your blog about taking the maiden name as a middle name, so that's more than likely what I will do rather than hyphenating. Thank you so much for you help!
If I get marry and take my huband name on the marry license . And still use my maid name for 3 year. Would it be a problem when I start using my huband name after
Hi Janice. No, it wouldn't be a problem.
I got divorced a few years ago, but when I got married, I kept both my maiden AND married name on my license. I want to have just my maiden name.. I never changed my social security, so that still has my maiden name. I have a copy of my divorce papers, but getting a certified copy is difficult. I still have a certified copy of my marriage license. Can I use that to get them to take off my married name on my license? Because I'm technically providing then with proof of maiden name, plenty of it even my license has my maiden name…it's just that my license also has married name, but I don't want it on there anymore.. How could I go about getting that done, without having to go get a certified copy from court house of my divorce?
Since it's not a married name change, it wouldn't be applicable.
Short of petitioning the court, I don't see a way around your predicament. Why are you facing difficulty getting a copy of your divorce decree?
I just recently change my last name to my marriage name and renew my Philippine passport, I got married here in state of Hawaii the DOH that's the place to file marriage and permit etc.. and told us you can keep your name or choose what you want to appear on our marriage certificate so I choose my mom middle name instead of my dad last name which is perfectly legal. But when I change my Phil. Passport it's going to be my name, my dad last name as my middle name and my husband last name, because it's the Philippine law to still use your dad last name as your middle name which is I don't know about it that's what the consulate told me. So now all my identity here in US are my name, my mom middle name, and my marriage last name. My question is where do I file a affidavit of discrepancy (one and the same person) over here or in Philippines? And where do I get this form?
Hi Lyn. If you do a search for "affidavit of discrepancy form Philippines" you'll find a number of fill-in-the-blank templates that you can use.
Thank you. Is this going to be a big problem entering here in US? I use my mom middle name as my middle name,instead of my dad last name which is on my Philippine passport the Philippine consulate said its the law to always use your dad last name as your middle name. but I change my middle name legally here in Hawaii and I use my mom middle name I have legal documents to prove it. So my green card,ssn,bank accounts are under my name on our marriage certificate. Do I really need to file affidavit of discrepancy?. Do I need to hire a lawyer to? Mahalo
Hi Krezalyn. If you have supporting documentation it shouldn't cause problems entering the U.S. The affidavit of discrepancy is something you'd file in the Philippines or through the consulate general. Hiring a lawyer is optional, although you can fill it out yourself.
Hi I recently got divorced and in my paper it said I want to resume Maiden name. If I change my mind can I keep my married name still even though I sign the papers?
Yes, you can keep your married name.
Thank you. I just need to change my w2 to divorce right?
Hi Shalayne. If your W2 doesn't match your current name, then you would need to have it changed.
Hello,
We just got married and are taking a trip to Europe in the next 90 days. Can my wife wait to change her current maiden name (which is on her passport and other ID's) until after our trip ? Assuming their is no time limit after we got married (5/20/17) to make her name change correct ?
Thank You
Yes, she can wait to change her name until after the trip. This is elaborated on further in the maiden on passport article.
My wife changed her name when we got married and has updated her driver's license. We are selling her car but the title is in her maiden name. When we sign it over, should she sign the title in her new name or her maiden name. She does still have her passport in her maiden name so she could show the notary either her passport or her ID. We just don't want the buyer to have any difficulty with the DMV after the sale.
Maiden name.
If you're concerned about this, you can provide the buyer a copy of your marriage record/certificate.
Hello,
I was married for 12 years but never legally changed my maiden name; I just took his name as mine. We are now divorced and he wants me to stop using his last name, is there anything that can stop him from making me drop his name.
No, unless he can make the case that you're committing fraud and/or it's impacting him.
I was recently divorced after my ex husband refused for years. Well in the divorce they gave me my maiden name back, do I have to change my paperwork to my maiden name in order to get married?
No, you do not.
Hi there!
I married in the Philippines but got divorced in Hongkong.
I came here in US using my married passport as I haven't amended yet.
I got married here a year ago and since my married passport was my only valid ID to used it in getting married plus the divorced decree I presented but still they used my married passport on my marriage certificate! My husbands petition for me was already approved and were just waiting to receive my green card approval. My concern is if I got my GC will it be automatically on my husbands surname ? If that's the case my name on my passport and GC name was different. I have plan to take vacation if get my GC will it be a big trouble for me coming back /entering US? What documents I need so that they won't questions me? Do I need to get affidavit from Philippine Consulate stating those names are one person even I have my divorced certificate?
Most likely.
Having a name mismatch on your passport and green card shouldn't be a problem as long as you provide supporting documentation showing your name change history, such as making sure you bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate with you, along with your green card.
For entering the U.S., that shouldn't be necessary, although more supporting documentary evidence is always better than less.
Hi my name is Brenda Jackson on my Social Security card wishes is my married name but i want to change it back to my birth name without a divorce will I be able to do that without a divorce
Hi Brenda. If you've already changed your name on your social security card, you must get a court order to change it again.
I recently got married & I have decided to change my last name to my husbands. However, I haven't gone through the process. My question is, I'm soon going to give birth to my baby girl, when filling out the paperwork/birth certificate info so I put my current name(maiden name) or my husbands last name?
You can put either last name or hyphenate, in any order.
Hi I was just wondering if you could still use your maiden name for a drivers license. Thank you.
Hi Lauren. You'll have to use whatever name is on your most current social security card.
Hi, so I just changed my last name to my husbands but I'm regretting not keeping my maiden last name as well, is it possible for me to add my maiden last name again but still have my husbands as well? Like have 2 last names, or is it too late to do that since I already changed it?
It's too late to change it using your marriage record. You'll have to petition the court to change it again.
Hi there! I am getting married soon and am not ready to change my last name to his. However, if I decide let's say 2 or 4 years down the road to change it (especially if we have kids), will it be difficult or as easy as doing it when you get married? Can I just show that we are already married or will I have to then petition the court and go through the more difficult process? I'm in Georgia. Thank you!
Hi Cre8iv1. As long as you specify what you "might" decide to change it to on your marriage license, you'll be able to change it later without petitioning the court. If you omit it, you may have to petition the court. What you specify on the license isn't binding.
I am married but due to some discrepancy in my documents, I'm still using my maiden name in my passport. Now I am planning to apply for a tourist visa and I am required to submit bank certificate. My bank account bears my married name and so are my other identifications. What can I do about this?
Hi Jovy. Other than submitting a copy of your bank certificate, can you submit proof of employment, such as a certificate of employment?
Have a great day/eve to y'all!! Just wanna ask if i can change my signature of my new passport married name? My appointment of changing my name will be next month and i just done and had the Certificate (Commission on Filipino Overseas) today with my new name. Any advice, is it possible that i can change my signature in my passport?
Thank you and hope to hear from you soon!!!
Hi Giselle. The DFA handles this. You may have to submit an affidavit.
Ok my question is, i changed my name on my social security card to my married name, but for some reason the ssa website and everything i need to go through that requires a social srcurity card, it cant find me under my maiden name. I had to put power in my maiden name, and i tried to make an account on the SSA website, and it wont accept my married name even though when we got married i got a card and had it changed. Some of my mail has my married name on it. Aand some other stuff has a different middle name as well then on my card. I changed my middle name to my maiden namr, and took my initial middle name away. Why is this happening?
Hi Tiffany. You'll have to contact the SSA about the discrepancy. It could just be a problem with the website and not their internal systems.
I got married in 2015 and on the marriage license i put that I wanted his last name and it's 2017 and I have yet to change my name. Can I get in trouble for not changing it? And can I get my drivers license with my maiden name?
No, you won't get in trouble.
Yes, since that's still your current legal name.
Hi can i use single status for my passport application form in my passport even im married already.pls advised
Hi Angie. If you're married, you should put married.
I recently changed my name through social security but I would like to keep my maiden name professionally. I am a mental health therapist so name changes to everything is complicated and expensive. Is it legal for me to keep my maiden name professionally and not change any of my information with HR?
Hi Stacy. At a minimum, you'd have to alert HR for tax filing purposes. If you're licensed, you'll have to notify the licensing board. That doesn't mean they'll require you to update the name on your license, but they may at least need to update their internal records.
Hi
So I married my wife and we just happen to have the same last name. Do I have to do any paperwork like Social Security showing that i am married for future benefits or just in case of?
I did a search on myself recently and it shows me under my first married last name, which I kept for years until divorcing and going back to my maiden name.
Does it matter?
It depends. Some social security benefits do require you to report marital status.
If you're referring to a general online search, then I don't see that as pertinent.
I got married 7 years ago. When we got married, I contacted SS and got my DL in my married name. But because I have a terminal illness and I was getting my health insurance from the state, I continued to use the name I had from my previous marriage. I never changed my name with my bank or my credit card co's..
Since I wasn't working because of my illness, I never notified the IRS. And although my husband wasn't making a lot of money, I was afraid because I now was married, that I might lose my health insurance. When I became 62, I applied for Social Security, and was told that because they verify people through Experian or one of the Credit Bureaus, that they couldn't identify me, therefore, I was denied.
Because of this, my husband and I decided to get a divorce, just so I could legally get the name I had before I married him back. (We are still happy and living together). But, foolishly, when we went to court for our divorce decree hearing, when the judge asked me if I wanted to go back to my previous name, I asked if I could go back to my maiden name and she said if that's the name I wanted to use, I would have to file for a legal name change.
I told her that if that was the case then I would like to go back to my previous name. When we got the divorce decree in the mail, my name hadn't changed but was still my married name. I filed a motion explaining to the judge that I wanted to go back to my previous name but apparently after she reviewed the minutes, she denied it and said it was because I could only go back to my previous name, not my maiden name, and that I would have to file for a legal name change.
So, despite the fact that we got divorced, my name had not changed at all. Now, I don't know if I should file another motion again explaining to the judge what I wanted (it's been about 8 months since our divorce was final) or if I should contact my bank, cc co's and Medicaid of my name change.
What I'm worried about is because I never notified Medicaid when I got married, that they will cancel me for not telling them that I got married, and if they cancel me, if I can't get the medication I'm taking, I will die. I can't afford to get health insurance on my own. Especially with Trump in the midst of cancelling Obama Care.
If I tell Medicaid that I was married and now divorced, they will ask for my Marriage Certificate and/or Divorce Decree and they will see that I had gotten married 7 years ago and never notified them. I'm so confused and afraid and don't know what to do. I made a mistake not telling them. What should I do?
Hi Marla. There are specialists who deal with situations such as yours, so don't have to figure this out on your own. Look up the services of medicaid specialists in your area or elder law attorneys. Medicaid specialists are typically more cost-effective than an elder law attorney. If you're having difficulty finding a specialist for hire, you can contact an elder law attorney for references.
Hi. I just got married last march 2017. I changed my last name same with my husband. But i still deciding to notify Social security about the name change because if that so I need to change my green card which will expire 2019 and the fee is almost $600 i think to change the green card. My question is that, is it ok to change my last name with all my documents when it is almost time to change my green card so that there will be only one payment? Thank you.
Hi Myra. Yes, you can wait to change your documents over later.
I am divorced and kept my ex husbands last name. I am soon to be remarried. i would like to change my last name at that time to my maiden last name. Can I go ahead and do this on my marriage certificate, or do I need to go through the court and pay the fee?
Hi Lisa. You can do this straight using the marriage certificate.
Hi I have new baby I write my last name that I use it in my country before came to USA as a madian name and they use this name in his birth cirtificate but I have different last name in all my papers. Can I get him passport without changing my last name in his birth cirtificate ?because I don't have enough time to wait for the new birth cirtificate
Can I use any other evidence to extract my child passport replacement for birth cirtificate ?
Hi Esraa. You should be able to get a passport for him using his name on the birth certificate.
Hello did it possible to get married Again, if Im using.single documents
since
I'm working abroad, if we file a marriage registered, isn't it posible to knows that on my own embassy that I am married Legally in Philippines, even though I'm using.single all my dh
Document, please. Need kindly
reply, thank :
Hi Marivic. You're looking to get married again in the Philippines? For what purpose?
Hello, So I recently got a new drivers license and they went by my name on my birth certificate which is misspelled from my social security card but I lost my social card so in order to get a new one they have to go by my drivers license which is misspelled because my birth certificate has always been misspelled but I got married in 2013 which my marriage license has the correct spelling. if I were to get a new social card to match my drivers license will that make my marriage license void? Even my Employment?
No, it won't.
Hi! Thank you in advance for the help! I am recently divorced of 17 years, all my documents, drivers lic, and current accounts are in my married name still. But my passport is in my maiden name from before our marriage. Now I need to renew it, should I keep it in my maiden name even if all my other pieces of ID and finances are in my married name still? I am currently engaged and planning on changing my name by the end of the year to my new husband's last name. Thank you again!
Hi Nicole. It can be kept in maiden.
Hello, thank you for this article! I have been married since 2013, and I adopted my husband's name hyphenated with my maiden name. I haven't changed my name via social security, professionally, or even on my driver's license; those still have my maiden name. In regards to my name on paper, I'm pretty much living like I haven't been married. I want to get my passport this year, however, I need to know do I need to follow through with the name change before applying for the passport, or can I just get the passport now, and apply the name change to social security, the passport, and everything else in the future? Thanks in advance :)
Hi Alexandria. You can renew your passport in either your maiden or married name. Later you can change all your documents to your married name, if you so choose.
So since you're still putting your maiden name do you still check the box that you're married?
Hi Jenna. On legal documents, you'll want to answer your current marital status accurately. Marital status doesn't impact name change.
Hi just have some questions regarding change of last name. I am still in the process with my immigration status. I used my maiden name in all the immigration documents as well as my passport is in my maiden name. Now I'm waiting for my Employment authorization car to be delivered and I'll be applying for a SSN as soon as I get my EAD card. My question is do I need to use my maiden name in applying for SSN or my married name? Is it really necessary to change to married name or can I just retain my maiden name? Since changing it will be a long process and since all my documents including passport are on my maiden name. What are the pros and cons of not changing my maiden name to married name. Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Maiden, as that's your current legal name that matches your immigration documents.
You don't have to change it. You can keep your maiden name.
Not changing it is the path of least resistance.
Hello Valera,
Is it possible to keep my maiden name (legally) but socially go by my married name? Professionally, I want to keep my maiden name and I also don't feel like going through the hassle of a legal name change; however, I don't want to offend my fiance or his family. And his last name is two words so I cannot hyphenate. Just trying to find a solution to make all parties happy.
Yes, that's perfectly doable.
Valera, how is that doable ?
Just have husband's last name in marriage certificate but don't change the last name anywhere after marriage ?
What has to be done not to look like using a fraudulent name ?
Thanks.
Yes.
It's not much different than a DBA. It's not fraudulent if you're not attempting to commit fraud.
When you get married and you don't understand the procedure processes and never changed your name and don't live together are you guys legally married?
Hi Unique. As long as the marriage wasn't of a prohibited type, and was solemnized and recorded, it's legal.
Hi, I am legally married in NY and filed for adjustment of status with my maiden name since it's safer (and swifter). I want to change my name before my GC is released (I know I can do so at the interview prior to the production of the card), however, I'm not sure if the EAD will still be valid – if I change my name with the SSA before my GC is released, will that create problems with my work permit validity? I used my maiden name in the marriage certificate and every other document.
Can I supply my employer with the new name before i receive a new updated SSN? Would a court approval be enough?
Thanks!
Hi Andy. It could create problems if you change it preemptively. It's safest to keep your records in your current name and change it after your GC is dealt with.
Hi, I am legally married, but we have been seperated for 7 years. I took his last name, but I never got my name changed on SS card or drivers license. Now we are doing divorce papers, and I'm wondering if I need to put my married name as legal name? Or can I do my maiden name…since that's what's on my SS card?
Thank you
Hi Tiffany. You'd use your maiden name.
HI ITS GREAT TO BE ABLE TO READ UR ARTICLE AND EVEN RESPOND TO EACH QUESTION
i am married since three years now ,just after marriage when i was unsure to talk to my husband about keeping my maiden name, i went to job interview with my husband and mentioned new name(on base of marriage certificate they allowed me to keep new name) on form i just tried reverting it next day but forms went to university(i work in college) so they couldn't at that time,now i spoke to my husband and he is convinced to keep my maiden name (every document like aadhar ,pan,election, degree certificate,passport are on maiden name i havent change it till now) i have not gazetted my new name though
till day i was searching for way to revert my job profile with 1year8 month experience by now (institute ,university,salary account,PF) on my maiden name(surname name middle name) is there any way or (if its not possible to revert i want both surname like -name no middlename maidensurname husband's surname) i can do that plz help me i am ready to go through tedious process .. if there are ny plz let me know ASAP i was really confused till now as its gonna be 2 years in job and they will be annoyed if i think now tht i want to revert it back ..
2. if it can be reverted .. can i add my husband name as it will not be part of my name (something like wife/of instead of daughter/of) in my identity cards like pan card,aadhar card,and passport
Hi Bhumika. Just tell your job that you decided not to go forth with the name change, and ask that your records be reverted. If necessary, provide supporting ID, such as your driver's license, birth certificate, or social security card.
In 1989 I had a boyfriend and we never married. He through his contacts got my maiden name changed to his. Don't ask me how. Now i want to change to my maiden name. Can it be done? He ditched me after changing my name.
Hi Rosy. You may want to visit your local SSA to notify them your name was changed without consent. That it was carried out fraudulently and that you want it reversed without having to go to court.
Hi, I am married, and was working before and after marriage. After marraige I used husband's name professionally. Now I am pursuing pg degree, I want use my maiden name as my other educational details has same name.
Hi Indu. That's something that'll have to be worked out with the institution. You an inquire if they'll require your legal name to be registered while allowing the use of an alias.
Hi
I have been married for almost 11year however we have been seperated for over 10years now when i got married i signed our marriage cert with my husbands name but never changed any id etc to my married name now we are FINALLY getting divorced im unsure if i sign the paperwork in my married name or my maiden name to match all id's etc??
Hi Alane. You'd sign it in your maiden name.
i am married for 10 years and we were separated since 2012.I want to study college again but all my documents were change into my husbands surname.Can i able to use my maiden name again in college?your advice much appreciated.
Hi Jecel. In all likelihood you'll have to use your legal name. You'll have to discuss this with the school to determine if they'll allow the use of an alias or alternate name while maintaining an internal record of your legal name.
Hi Valera!
It is so great to be able to talk to a name expert. :) Here's my question(s):
I got married last summer in CA and as per directions signed my anticipated new name, Jessica "Married", but haven't gone through any name changing process yet. I am thinking about going legally by "Jessica Maiden Married" IF I'll be able to still officially sign things with "Jessica Maiden". (As in I legally want my husband's name part of mine for when we have kids, but on paperwork I just want to use my much simpler maiden name). Q #1: So, if I have both old and new last name legally there, can I get away with signing things with just my maiden name/omitting new last name?
If so, Q #2: since I only signed my marriage license with "Jessica Married", do I have to go to court/start over completely in order to legally be "Jessica Maiden Married"?
Phew! Hope that was easy enough to follow. Thank you in advance for any help!
You'll only be able to sign Maiden informally. On any official docs, you'll have to use your legal name.
If you've already married, then yes. If you haven't married yet, it's easier to return to the clerk's office and just apply for a new marriage license to replace the old one.
As I suspected. I didn't think this through enough pre-marriage certificate. :) Thank you very much for your help!
When i got married in 1999 i was told i didnt have to change my name on my social securtiy card. But I did change it on my licence. when i file my taxes every year i put whats on my drivers license which is my maiden – married name. Is that a problem
Hi Elizabeth. Taxes should be filed to match what's on your social security card.
Hello, I read a lot of your page and found it very helpful! Just had a few questions. I got married and haven't told everyone yet nor do I want them all to know yet, my husband wants me to change my name but I don't want it to reflect in all situations. Is it possible to have my married name on my drivers license to make him happy but keep my maiden name on my ssc, parents insurance, bank accounts, tax forms, and paychecks? Or will my drivers license being my form of show identity be a problem with all of that?
Hi Deb. Most of the time you have to update your SS card before your driver's license. The DMV may query the SS database to confirm a name match. Tax forms need to match what's on your SS card. Employers need to have the name on your SS card for tax purposes. Everything else you may be able to get away with, but it's a patchwork approach.
Hi, I just got married on March 4th 2017 and I have been signing my maiden name on my lease for my apartment, my insurance, and my food stamps. Could I get introuble for this, could I leave it aalone, or do I need to tell everyone I changed my name. I put everything as I'm a single parent also. Please help me get an answer!!
Hi Christina. Did you actually change your name with the SSA, DMV, and other institutions, or did you just get married without actually changing your name anywhere? If you did change your name, it's a good idea to update your name with the organizations you cited. Any problems you face is more likely to be a disruption in services, rather than getting into trouble. If you haven't really changed your name, then you can leave everything as-is.
Ive been married since 2014. All my legal documents have been changed to my married name except my cell phone. My cell phone bill is still in my Maiden name. And I want to keep it this way. Will this be a problem?
Hi Jade. I doubt that'll be a problem.
hello,
i have a query regarding surname change after marriage is it possible that two surname mention in Identity proof ?? like E.g SIDDHI SHAH CHOKSI. please provide me the solution.
Hi Riddhi. I'm not sure what you're referring to. Are you asking if it's possible to have two last names separated by a space?
Hi. I am having trouble with the "maria" in my name. Some of my id's have the whole maria + husband's surname, some have the abbreviated ma.+ husband's surname. My marriage contract has the abbreviated ma. but my birth certificate has the full maria. I was widowed in 2015 and I want to get my id's in order and revert back to my maiden name. The question is: when filling out forms, should I put in single or widowed? I wish to avoid being questioned and having to present additional documents that doesn't match, eg my bc and marriage contract. Help please!
Both would be valid. If there's a document you're filling out that has legal implications and it's specifically asking if you're widowed, then answering widowed may be more appropriate for those particular cases.
I have been married 30 years and now want my maiden name back. No divorce. Can I take my birth certificate to social security and change it there and then use my social security card to change my DL? Will that then be my legal name?
No, that won't work. You'll need to petition the court to get a court order to change your name back.
Hi there,
I have a quick question. Do you know how long will this take to process and get approve to use the old last name? I am married and I updated my social security card and DL with my husband last name. I wanted to go back and use my last name but use his last name only for marriage certificate.
Do you know how much will this cost?
Hi Pear. Going through a court petitioned name change (see this page for further info) varies by state and court. You'll have to contact your courthouse to determine the fee.
I obtained a US citizenship through my military service. I have been divorced 2 times and my citizenship has my 1st husband's last name (Morrison), but when I got divorced and remarry the second time, I adopted my 2nd husband's last name (Jones) and I updated everything but my citizenship. Now, I'm married again with husband #3 and he wants me to take his last name (Ballow). My question is, when I send my citizenship back to have a name change, do I have to apply to change my first husband's last name (Morrison) for second husband's last name (Jones), and once I get my citizenship back with the name change, reapply again to change 2nd husband's last name (Jones) for 3rd husband's last name(Ballow)? or can I go straight and apply for name change from 1st husband's last name (Morrison) to 3rd husband's last name (Ballow)? My current last name is 2nd husband's last name (Jones), and I'm trying to change it again for my current husband's last name (Ballow), but before I got to the SS office, I want to make sure what's better regarding my citizenship changes.
Thank you in advance.
Hi Jacke. You just need to change it once; first to third.
Hi
My mom is a widow and she never got her marriage registration done as it was never needed. Now we want to apply for passport, but her degree certificate shows maiden surname where as bank passbooks, pan card , etc show my dads surname. Application is for Indian passport. What is to be done now?
Hi Mira. You can contact the passport office to inquire about alternative forms of supporting documents that would be accepted.
Hi! I'm looking to get married by the justice of the peace in NYC in April 2017 before my wedding ceremony/reception in September 2017. I would like to take my fiance's last name. We want to be legally married now so he can get on my health insurance plan through my employer. If I put his surname on the marriage license what are the implications of this? Since the health insurance is through my job, I'll have to provide them a marriage license. Will they change my name on my tax forms? Also my driver's license is soon to expire, if I don't change my name through SS beforehand, will my maiden name continue to be on my renewed license? I also just had my passport renewed and will be travelling out the country in September with a passport containing my maiden name. Will it be ok to have my fiance's surname on documents through work, but not on a driver's license/passport/SS/bank accounts for 6+ months? Thanks for your help.
For the purpose of having your spouse on your insurance, there is no implication. You don't have to change your name to get him on your insurance.
Yes, you'll have to provide some proof of marriage.
Yes, but you'll have to notify your employer of your name change, as there would be no way for them to know about it otherwise.
Yes.
Yes, but to get your husband's name on your insurance does not require you to update any of your identification documents.
rcaste39 I got married in 1990 and changed my name to my married name. I got divorced in 1992, never changed my name back but have used my maiden name since then for my driver's license, paying taxes, etc, hasn't been any issue. Will collecting my social security when appropriate be an issue?
Hi Rose. It could be, but not something that can't be resolved. Have you contacted the SSA to make sure your record is up-to-date. If your divorce decree has an order restoring your maiden name you can use that to correct the record with the SSA.
Hi years ago I was married and never changed my Id that still have my maidens name. The drivers shows after married the new surname. 22 years i divorced never changed anything yet. But i would like to renew my drivers license that shows ex husbands surname. Like i explained my id shows my maidens name. How do i do this i do not know after years what happen with my divorce papers
Hi Theo. Are you wanting to renew your license in your ex's name or your maiden? If it's the prior, then that may be problematic as any database lookup with the SS office would reveal a name mismatch. If you're wanting to renew in your maiden, then the DMV may want to have a document presenting another name change incident where you returned to your maiden name. Your divorce decree would be sufficient if it has an order restoring your maiden name. If not, the DMV may require a court order for them to change it.
I have never changed the name on any of my ID's, but marriage certificate shows that I wanted to take my husbands last name. We have been separated for 5 years now, and I am filing for divorce. What would be considered my "legal last name" for divorce papers? Would it be the name on my ID's or that on my marriage certificate?
The name on your ID's.
Hi. I recently got divorce my ex-husband wanted me to change my name back to my maiden name. My divorce papers says. You may retain you maiden name. Does that mean I can return to my madian name without having any trouble?
Yes.
Hi Valera,
I am from Illinois. Me and my wife got married 5 years ago, she kept her maiden name because she knew that I was planning to change my last name during naturalization. My citizenship application and name change was approved this month and I shall receive my name change certificate at the oath ceremony. My wife would like to change her maiden name to my current last name as we planned. Does she needs a court order to do it or can she just do it at Social Security Offices with our marriage certificate and my name change certificate?
Hi Yuri. She can change it with the marriage certificate.
I live in NYC and have been calling and emailing the City's Clerk for months. they disconnect the phone and do not respond to emails…. My marriage certificate indicates I will take my husband's last name. However after marriage, I decided not to change my last name. I did not change any documents; everything is still in my maiden name. Will this will be an issue with SSA, should I need to apply for my husband's SS Benefits? I believe I will have to produce the marriage certificate to show I am the spouse. will the different last names be an issue? according to the city clerk's website, i need to remarry my husband and note the new last name on the new marriage certificate. (i don't want a new wedding date to remember!). is there any other times when the marriage certificate is need for proof? Thank you in advance!
No, this won't be an issue. Name change is optional, regardless of what's reflected on your marriage certificate.
No.
It's useful anytime you need to provide proof of marriage.
Hi Valera! I live in NYC and will be getting legally married at City Hall in March – but we are not having our "wedding" with family and friends until November of this year. I definitely want to change my last name to his, but do not want to do so until after our "Wedding" in November. Should I elect to change my name when we get married in March, or wait and "petition the court" for the name change later this year.
Essentially, I want to know if I am legally allowed to change my name through marriage in March, but wait until November to actually proceed with going to the SSA and updating with DMV, Passport, work etc.
Thank you so much!
You wouldn't have to petition the court. You could either change your name in March or wait until November to do it. The process is the same.
Specifying a new name during the marriage license process and having it reflected on your eventual marriage certificate does not equate to legally changing your name. Going to the SSA/DMV is when you're actually, legally changing it.
Bottomline, you can get married in March and opt to legally change your name whenever you choose, be it March, November, or next year.
Hi, thank you in advance for taking the time to read my inquiry. I plan to marry this summer – Is it possible to change my name only on the marriage certificate? I'm really overwhelmed by the whole name change process and am curious if I really need to change it everywhere right away. Are there any legal repercussions to this? We do not have any kids at present; once we do have kids I recognize my name on their birth certificates should match my other paperwork – that being said, could I wait to change my name on everything until we have children?
Yes.
No.
Not necessarily. You can name them with just your last, just your spouse's last, a hyphenated version of both (yours first or spouse's first).
Yes.
My NY marriage certificate has my new married surname. We were married in July 2015 but I have not updated any of documents (Passport, SSN). Can I get a replacement SSN (I lost it) and ID in my maiden name till I decide to change my name legally later?
Yes, you can.
Hello,
I was married in GA 4 years ago and kept my maiden name at the time. Now we are living in WI with 2 kids (who have a family last name, not my husband's or my maiden name) and I would like to change my name to match the kids. Do I need to do a petition for that? Do I need to change their birth certificates to reflect the change even though they have my maiden name on them? Confusing situation. I just want to all have the same name before they start school.
Yes.
It's optional, not required.
Hi there
My name is rose , I got married 6 months ago .i have done a change of name to my married name , but as time took place me and my husband has decided to have a divorce. I have not changed my name on my license,bank passport even at work so I'm still using my maiden name.i have not divorced him yet as need to be 1 year.
I have decided to go overseas but have my name in my maiden name .
Would there be a problem?
With my pass port ?
Hi Rose. That shouldn't pose a problem. It's important that the name on your passport and travel tickets match, so you're following the proper route.
Hi Valera,
I'm cohabitating with my girlfriend for almost a year now, she's was married with her ex-husband but they were separated for 7 years now, We just wanted to ask if she can still use her old maiden name? But she's using her husband's name on her ID's and documents so we just wanted to change those back to her old name, is it okay?
Hi Edward. If she's divorced and her divorce decree includes an order restoring her prior name, then she can have it legally changed with the necessary institutions. If that's not the case, she's looking at having to petition the court.