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.
Hi, I got married 6 months ago (second marriage) Had my last name (first husband last name) changed to my current husband last name, on marriage certificate, but have not changed it on ssn, DMV, passport. Anywhere else yet. And now I'm thinking I want to continue using first husband last name legally, do I still need to do a name change with the court even though my ssn, DMV, passport still using first husband last name. And I would like to get a new marriage certificate with first husband last name is it possible?
You don't have to go to court, as there's nothing to change. Your preferred name is already your current name. Do nothing and everything remains as-is.
No, such a modification wouldn't be allowed unless there's a mistake on the part of the clerk who signed off on your marriage license.
I got married in 1981 but never had my name legally changed with the IRS. In other words, my social security card is still under my maiden name but in all other aspects I use my married name. My drivers license, and all of my bills are under my married name. I divorced in 2000. I didn't state in the divorce petition that I was changing my name back to my maiden name. When I file my tax returns I have to file them under my maiden name because that's how the IRS knows me. I now want to go back to using my maiden name for everything. Do I have to file a petition with the court to legally change my name back to my maiden name or can I just inform my creditors, etc. that I'm using my my maiden name now?
Hi Sherry. You wouldn't have to do anything with the SSA, as your name is already current there. You may have to file a petition to satisfy the DMV requirements. Perhaps less so with your creditors, bills, and non-government entities.
I got married 3 years ago, and i am still using my madien name but in my marriage license it has my husbands last name. After now thinking it over i rather hyphenate my last name. What would i have to do? is it a long process?
Hi Eimy. You may be able to hyphenated using your marriage certificate as-is. It ultimately depends on how strict the agent you're dealing with is in allowing a slight name variation. You can contact your local DMV and SSA to inquire if they'll accept a hyphenation.
Hello. I have a question that i was wondering for such a long time. I had got married about 3 years ago and they had send my spouse back to his country to Columbia. He never sign the devious papers. But i never put his last name in the marriage paper , i only change my last name on my ID and on my SS. So ever since i do not know where he is or do not know how to get in contact with him. All i want to do is be divorce and fix my ID and my SS. May you help me with this.
Hi Wanda. The judge in your divorce case may decide the case in your favor as an uncontested divorce. You'll have to take this up with the court and be sure to request that your prior name be restored in the divorce order.
Still married but I want to go back to my maiden name. I had moved my maiden name to my middle name on important docs, i.e. DL, SSN. Can I go back to my maiden? My married name seems to be holding me back in advancing in my profession.
Hi Angel. You'd have to get a court petitioned name change to restore your maiden name.
Hi! I'm from Philippines. I am really thankful to you in advance for answering my query. By the way, I'm Cindymagne Macalam Bagumbaran that is my maiden name. I have a problem exactly like other here in your furom. I'm using this name since I'm in gradeschool and also in high school.
I was inborn as a muslim but my parents named me with a christian name, that time they are not that type of religious person and second my mother is also a Roman Catholic So maybe in my understanding, that's the main reason why they name me by that name. In 2004, I got married and my husband is a religious one and he changed my name from Cindymagne to Samiah..without any legal documents and legal process. Our main reason is that because in our religion it is not good to have a christian name. And then, in our marriage certificate, they put my muslim name as Samiah.
So, from there I am using this name in my ID's and Birth Certificate of my children got my Passport, TIN ID and in all of my transactions, bank accounts, etc. with a supporting documents of a fake birth certificate indicating my Samiah name.
Now, as years passed by in good faith we got a good business me also got my own business but there are times that we always have a fight and always have an argument about money, financial problems always occur, and the main reason is the first family.
I'm a second wife, legally and I am now the let us say the main source of income..and as this problem arising I decided to separate my business and income as well from His income because I think in the end It is for my children's future everything what property that I've possessed knowing that he also have a first family so better to secure my own finances so I decided to use my Maiden name in applying new ID's , open a bank account with this maiden name and stated to be single instead of married..because I don't want to attached his name in my accounts. then, got a business and registered it in my maiden name also.
So, Ive been using it for a year and half but the problem interrupt when I apply another Passport without declaring that I have already one because my reason is so that the DFA will not ask so many questions about my spouse so I put my status as a single and use my birth certificate. but after 10 days got the result of my application and got notice od SUSPENDED UNDECLARED PASSPORT. So, they got my old passport also. Can you advice me what's the best thing to do. Can I continue my maiden name or back my files to my married name again? Please enlighten me.
Hi Samiah. Simply registering accounts and businesses in different names doesn't necessarily detach them from your spouse. Your name variations are so heavily tied into your business that I believe you need to seek the counsel of an attorney and accountant.
Hi my legal name when I became a permanent resident appears as MyFirst Name_MyMaidenLastName_De_My MarriedLastName . . All my documents have my married last name as my last name, however I got a divorce. I now need to renew my permanent residency card and the questionnaire asks if I have changed my name legally. There is a discrepancy with the name on the permanent residency card vs. All my documents which only lists my married last name.
Do I need to get a name change through the court legally back to my maiden last name to renew it?
Can I keep the married last name since all my documents arequired listed with the name and my children have that same last name? Or am I to change it ?
Will this affect my renewal opportunities with USCIS?
You say you divorced, but you didn't say if you actually legally changed your name back to your maiden name. If your divorce decree included in an order for you to restore your maiden name, but you didn't actually do so, then your married name is still your legal name. In that case, you don't need to go to court to renew it in your married name. If you want to renew it in your maiden name, then you would have to petition the court for a name change.
Yes, if that's still your legal name.
No, it shouldn't. You'll just have to renew in whatever your legal name is.
Thanks for your good work.
I have my married name on passport, Green card, SSN, DL everywhere, now my naturalization certificate is being issued on my Maiden name is this a problem? Should I go through legal name change court procedure?
Hi Neha. You can file for a replacement certificate to update your name.
My partner was previously married. But they weren't really together as couple. It was just a business proposal. Now both of them has their own partners in life. My partner decided to go back to Uni and finish her degree, she wanted to use her maiden name when she register at this school. Will it be possible?
Hi Kc. She's have to register using her legal name. If her legal name is still her maiden, then that's what she'd use.
I legally changed my last name to my step fathers name when I was 20. It was changed on my birth certificate and everything. Now I am married. I am a female married to a female. I never changed my last name to hers. She recently legally changed her last name to her step fathers last name. She has always wanted to do it and I supported her. Now I want to have the same last name as her. Can I change it through marriage? Or do I have to go through the courts and get it legally changed as well?
Hi Kristen. You should be able to change it through marriage, unless you're in a state that requires the new name be specified on the marriage license.
What if I put on my marriage license that I was going to change my last name but decided not to change it at all. Is that okay?
Hi Alicia. The marriage license application wouldn't have block for you to write such explanatory text. If you think you might change your name later, you can specify the new name on the marriage license (if it has a space for it), but that doesn't mean you have to actually do it. It's not binding.
If you live in a state that 1) mandates the new name be specified on the application, 2) you choose not to specify it, and 3) you later change your mind and really want to change it, then you very well may have locked yourself out of changing your name through marriage and your remaining path is to petition the court.
So, specifying a name to change to on your marriage license is just an option that you can take advantage of later. You don't have to use it. You don't have to change it (ever) if you choose not to.
If you're sure you will not want to change your name, then you can leave that area blank.
I put my name to be changed but I don't think I want to change it I'm in Hawaii and it does ask what your name will be
You don't have to change it no matter what you put. If you specify a new name, but change your mind, then do nothing and everything remains as-is/unchanged.
Hello, good day :)
I just want to clear out some doubts and confusions. I am a Filipina, I have acquired my passport before marriage and have'nt change my civil status yet in all of my documents, in short I'm still using my single name and single status the whole time. I am going to acquire a condo unit soon (in Philippines) and I want to know if, do I have the right to declare single in my Application Form / Buyer Information Form? I want the property to be solely in my name only since we are already separated (but not yet legally done).I dont want my ex husband to be involved anymore. Do i have a problem with that later on, especially on the time of applying for a bank financing. Thank you and i'm hoping you can help me on this. God Bless and more powers..
Hi Loren. You may need to consult with an attorney to determine if the purchase would later be considered a marital asset, which could be a problem for you later.
Hi i had issue where i had to relinquesh parental rights well i was married and name changed but through whole court process the agency or courts never knew i had married or changed name and i never told them either but day i was signing relinqueshment papers they were under my maiden name and i signed them with maiden name but there was a notary there dont they ask for i.d so point is are papers valid if they signed in name i legaly had changed my liscense ss card arent in maiden name so is it legal papers
Hi Jacqueline. It's best to contact the court for such specific advice. Having said that, it's unlikely to have an impact on the validity of the papers. It's not as though your identity would come under question.
I'm in California and recently got married and changed my last name to his on the marriage certificate ….I haven't changed my name thru the social security office or dmv do I have to change my name or can I still use my maiden name? And for how long?
Yes, you can still use your maiden.
As long as you want.
My fiancé and I went yesterday to get the marriage certificate at the clerk office. I was having such a huge problem changing my middle name. I should of waited. So now I am regretting what I picked. We didn't get married yet. We just needed the marriage liscense document to get married at the church. But we did have an oath. Not sure what the process and fee will be? Hoping it's not too late?
And i picked two double middle names. And now I just want one.
I just don't want it to be much of a hassle before the wedding and hoping to get this done before then. I am a month away in getting married. Please help me.
I live in California.
Hi Shian. If you haven't gotten married yet, I'm assuming the document you picked up was a marriage license, not certificate. If that's the case, you can return to the office and request an amendment. They may charge a fee. If they can't do an amendment, then you can reapply for a new license which will void the old one.
It's both on the top of the page it says license and certificate of marriage.
At the back of the paper I read an amendment may be added if there was clerical error.
I'm planning to go in Monday. I hope it's not that big of a process. And hopefully I can still do the amendment.
I also hope this can be done before the wedding.
In some states it is the same document. The only thing that changes is the status. Before you're married, it's just a license. After you're married, it becomes the certificate.
Hi there! I am in the process of getting divorced. My driver's license and birth certificate are in my maiden name but my social was changed to my married name. Should I sign all the divorce papers in my maiden name or married name? Will it cause a problem at the courthouse?
Hi Julia. You should typically sign with your current, legal name, which is still your married name. But it's something you can ask the court clerk/judge to advise you on.
I have been divorced for just short of a year and on my divorce degree it states I can change my former married name back to maiden name. I have not made the change back to my maiden name yet and still on all things i am using the former married name. I may be getting married again soon. Can I change from former married name to new married name which will be comprised of my maiden name hyphenated & followed by new married name? How?
Hi Heidi. Yes, you can go directly to Maiden-NewMarriedName without first returning to your maiden. Just go through a regular marriage-based name change.
Hi my name is amber and i just got married last year and i didn't change my last name on my id or ssc i was wondering if i can keep my maiden name on my id and on my ssc but i took my husband last name
Hi Amber. Yes, you can. Specifying a name change when you get married that subsequently appears on your marriage certificate doesn't bind you to follow through. Take no further action, and your legal name will remain your maiden name.
My last name on my w2 is my married name but my ss card is my maiden name do i have to change mu ss card name to file my taxes
Hi Heather. You're facing an eventual name mismatch. To prevent it, either your SS card would have to be updated or your W2 would have to revert to your maiden.
When my husband and his ex divorced she kept his last name. When she got remarried, she used my husband's last name on her marriage license but under previous last names, she did not list her maiden name. Would this cause an issue with the marriage license?
It's unlikely to be an issue.
I have been married for almost 10 years. I never changed my last name on my social or license. I use my maiden name everywhere except my military Id. They automatically put my husbands last name on it. I am now trying to renew my id and the clerk told me that without another form of ID with the married name he could not do it. He told me I was commuting tax fraud by using two different last names but I file in my maiden name. I don't want to change my last name. Is there any way to obtain the ID without changing my name?
Unlikely. At best you can inquire if there are some lower tier levels of identity documentation that may be acceptable for you to provide.
Hi good evening . I have changed a letter in my name when I got married .
From vergin to verjin. Plus I changed my last name to my husband last name I am not sure if I kept my last name ans a maiden name . Now I want to start to do my families immigration paperwork . Should I send an approvea documentation that I changed a letter in my name or it doesn't matter .
Plus my husband last name is on my marriage certificate and my last name is on my birth certificate . So does it matter the change of the last name also .
Hi Verjin. It's not clear to me where you've made these changes. Just on the marriage certificate? Generally, it's important to notify the USCIS of name changes.
So … not sure what to do. I got legally married 2 years ago but I don't announce to people nor my employers that I am married. Only my family members know that I am married. I got married by the justice of peace and want to delay announcing anything to those outside the family till I have a ceremonial wedding in a church with the white dress and honeymoon stuff.
On my W4 I use my maiden name and put that I am single. Can I get in trouble for this? Would that have any legal repercussions? So far for the past 2 years I've been ok and nothing has happened legally. There have been no problems receiving W4 and filing taxes. Can I continue to use my maiden name and put that I am single? All my W2 come in my maiden name but I file jointly with my husband under my married name.
My marriage certificate has a name change from maiden last name to married last name. I got my DL and SS changed to state my married last name but my passport is still in my maiden last name. Additionally I still have my SS that states my maiden last name. So are both of my SS cards valid (one has maiden and other one has married)? I've decided that I want to use my maiden name for everything. How would I go about doing that? My bank account and my car tittle are both under my married.
Is there a way I can change my DL back to my maiden name? I use my maiden name for work. For my school, legal documents are under married but in the online system I am still listed under my maiden name. I take tests under maiden, attendance is listed as maiden but my transcript is married. How would I go about changing my transcript and legal stuff back to my maiden name? I believe my 1081 from is listed as married.
On legal documents do I have to state that I am married or is it still ok to put single?
Also one more question, what is my legal name? Is my legal name my maiden or married name? I have been putting maiden as legal name and it has gone through.
Hi Mary. It's the name on your most up-to-date SS card.
It's best to speak to an accountant about this, but here are a few guidelines.
Let's make sure we have a few base facts correct:
1) Your W4 shows single, maiden name.
2) You're filing under your legal, married name as "married filing jointly."
Unlikely. When you file your personal taxes it's meant to settle what you owe and paid.
You can, but that doesn't mean you should. You should file under a status matching your personal filing.
1) Passport isn't relevant in regards to your taxes/filings.
2) Only your married name SS card is valid.
3) Your previous, maiden name SS card is now a nice keepsake.
If you want to use it for everything and have legal force behind it, you'll have to undergo a court-petitioned name change. If you want to use it informally or at convenient points, it'll have to be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
For instance, you can work out with your bank to allow checks to be printed and signed under your maiden name. They may or not agree to it. Car title would have to remain under your married name unless you legally change it again.
Court petition only.
Such institutions will typically want a document to verify your name change event, such as a court order. They may be willing to allow a revert using a prior document, such as a birth certificate, but that'll have to be done on a case-by-case basis. It differs because some institutions are federal, state, and private, so the rules vary. You can review the name change on professional documents article which touches on this a bit.
Married.
Hi. I am rhein. I am planning to work at middle east. I was married 6 years years ago but never used my married name.Can I still use my maiden name on my passport but my civil status will be married.please HELP.. thank you.
Hi Rhein. If you've never actually changed your name, then you'd have to use your maiden name, as that's your legal name.
Hello! I am wondering if I legally add my married name so that I have First Middle Maiden Married….can I still use First Maiden on things? I want to go by First Maiden socially and professionally but both my fiance and I think there is benefit to us having the same legal last name (medical, etc.).
Would I have to change my name on everything such as bank accounts, credit cards, etc. or could I still use my First Maiden signature for those things?
Informally, you can.
That would be up to your bank. They may be willing to accommodate an alias, but it would have to be setup with them in advance. Then you could apply your preferred First Maiden signature. Although the credit bureaus keep a history of name changes, it's still a good idea to at least notify them of your new name. They can update their internal records, while continuing to issue your cards in your preferred name.
I have been a widow for 42 years. i want to go ack to my maiden name for some time i live in the state of pa; s,s. want me to pay for the name change. when i lived in fl. (which i know i shold have completed) all i had to do way change it is every state different? p.s. i was a widow very young never remarried.
Hi Steff. You'd have to petition the court to change your name back to your maiden.
Hi. I am in Pa. I married in 1997 and changed my name on everything but my SS card. I am now getting a divorce and wonder if I have to change my SS card to match my 20 years of credit cards, banks etc. My soon to be ex states I have been using an alias for 20 years. Can I leave my SS card alone or is it better to have everything match?
Hi Luane. You don't have to change it if you don't want to.
i was just signing up for snap and i put in my married name and it didnt go through with my soical but then i used my maiden name and it went trough can u explain why this happened?
Hi Breanna. It can mean the current name they have on file is your maiden name. If this shouldn't be the case, then you can contact the SSA to inquire.
I got married in September and will be changing my name, but I also know we will be moving out of state in the fall which is why I haven't filed any paperwork to change it yet(Figured I'd wait to change name and address on everything at once). My predicament is that my passport just expired, and I will be getting my professional license in a few months.
Can I change my name on my SS card in order to get my new name on my passport and professional license, then wait until we move to change the rest? I'm not sure what kind of repercussions I will face until we move since I want to keep my maiden name for as much as possible until then.
Yes, you can stagger it out like that without an issue.
I got married last month and decided to change my last name at that time. On my marriage certificate, it states my Surname will change to my husband's.
However, after a month I realized I want to keep my maiden name. I have not gone to the Social Security office or done any legal name change procedures yet. Is this legal?
There is also another concern– I'm switching my current H1-B visa status and applying for a spouse visa. Will this name issue potentially be a problem in this process?
Yes. Name change is optional. You aren't required to change your name regardless of what's on your marriage certificate.
No.
Hi
I am from India and while registering my marriage they changed my surname to my husband's surname.
I made the changes to my passport as people said its easier for travelling purpose if my name matches my husband's name in passport. I did not update any other documents including pan card or aadhar card. Is it okay to have maiden name on few documents and husband's surname on few documents? Are the documents with maiden surname accepted in all places? Which name will I have to write in new documents i.e if I create new bank account? I am very much confused, Please reply.
Yes.
Yes.
You'll have to defer to your bank (or equivalent institution). There are multiple government issued documents that can be used to verify identity. The hierarchy of the documents (e.g., India passport, Aadhaar card) may vary based on location. Generally, your Aadhaar card should be recognized as an acceptable identity document for most purposes, but not necessarily proof of Indian citizenship.
Would it be easier to get a resident card under your maiden name and then later change all the documentation like Drivers license SS card and passport and also update your green card or do you think it would be better to change everything first like ID and then change that ? ( USCIS info is all under maiden )
Hi Brenda. Your resident card would have to match your legal name. If you chang your name with the SSA, you'll want to notify USCIS of the change so that their records will be updated. One thing to keep in mind are potential fees you may have to pay if you have to have your identification reissued through USCIS.
Hi, I've been married for 5 years and had changed my last name to my husband's. We are still married but I want to change my last name back to my maiden name. More so for personal reasons. Is that a bad idea? And how difficult is it?
It's neither good nor bad. It's a personal decision. You'll have to petition the court to change your name back.
hi.. hope you could help me out! i wanna get a state id but i wanna use my surname when i was single.. is that possible?
Hi Jane. It's unlikely you'll be able to get a state ID in anything other than your current, legal name.
Is it legal for my possibly soon to be x-wife to be filing her taxes "single" for the last 5 years , and using her maiden name . Especially when the first 2 to 3 years of our marriage we filed jointly . I think she did this to get the extra earned income credit .
Hi Steven. While one can't choose single if married, she can file "Married Filing Separately." Whatever name she files in would have to match what's on her social security record, so if she were to file in the wrong name then her returns could face rejection.
hi Valera, i know this post is pretty old but i've been looking for advice anywhere I can. My husbands ex wife has been using his last name on documentation (she has ALWAYS kept her surname) but they did file joint for the 2 years they were married and put his last name as her last name, but as far as I know that was never the case legally. (their return was never denied). I just would like to know what if anything can I do to put an end to this. It has been 3 years now. We have custody of the kids, etc. she's in the wind but mail seems to always find its way to our address with her first and our last name on it. do you have any advice ?
Hi Mariah. If you're suggesting she's using a name that's not her legal name, then you may be able to bring forth a cause of action if fraud is involved and it's impacting you and/or your spouse. For that, you'll have to consult an attorney. If her legal surname matches her ex-husband's surname, then there's nothing you can do about it.
am trying to go to american embassy with my family inside my passport am using my maiden name I and my husband have been together for 6years but we just got married last year but I wrote he's surname in the marriage certificate is that enough to take to the embassy since its my maiden name that's there.
Hi Temitope. The married name you specified in your marriage certificate doesn't hold much significance, as your legal name is still your maiden name. Your current documents reflect your current legal name, so you shouldn't face any issues. Your marriage certificate can provide proof of marriage, but the married name on there isn't really important.
If there's something more specific you're concerned about, please clarify.
Hi!
I just got married and finally got my green card. To my surprise it is still on my maiden name. I have my ssa and dl under my married name. I have a job offer and needs to clarify if this going to be a problem. What name should I go by!
Hi Angela. It could be a problem. Have you tried to get your EAD updated to your married name? By the way, if the name on your EAD is incorrect due to a mistake on USCIS' part, you can contact them to get a corrected card.
In the State of Florida, for business purposes (involving taking title to real property, forming a corporate entity, closing real estate transactions) can a woman who's legal married name is "Jane Smith Jones" with "Smith" being her maiden name and "Jones" her taken married name use the name "Jane Smith" (her maiden name) and it be legal.
Hi Karl. Yes, there are those who use the maiden name professionally and the married name socially. Registering a DBA is one method folks use to have the business identity remain as the maiden name.
I'm not sure what name to use when filling out paperwork. I got married and took my husband's last name but so far have only officially changed it on my social security card, not my driver's license or ID yet. Am I required to use my maiden name or married name?
It depends on the situation and document. Your legal name is on your SS card. That's the name to use, even though your driver's license doesn't reflect it yet.
Hi,
My husband and I got married in California in February 2016, and I did not change my name on the marriage certificate. So I am still using my maiden name in all my documents (passport, credit cards, drivers license, etc). But now I am wanting to change my last name to his. What do I need to do?
Thanks!
Hi G B. You'll have to change your name through the courts since your new name isn't reflected on your certificate.
Hi. Do you think I can petition my kids from Philippines they're both 11 years old using my maiden name? Because they are using their father's last name and we're never married. The time we're together he was married but separated (not legally annuled) already. I mean they don't leave together anymore and they had one kid. So in short, our kids are illigitimate.
It has been 10 yrs that we are also separated. He left for Canada because he and his first family filed for immigrant their but he did not bring them their only to find out that just recently that he was able to bring his son in Canada he's like 21 already. And now my daughters father has his own family their already, they have 2 young sons. In short, that's his third family. It's a mess.
Anyway, what I want to do is take my kids here in USA using my maiden name, before I got married here in US. Because I don't want their father to know anything about me. And also I don't want his permission since they are his illigitimate children and he barely support them for years they are growing up. The problem is for 8 years I was not able to see them because of work and family here. But I do support them and I have communications with them. Instead of buying a plane ticket I have no choice but to just send the money to them because money is tight.
Their father visited them three times only and this year he was in Philippines he did not visited them. He does not care about them. And right now just three months ago I had no choice but to put my ego and pride away saying sorry for everything which I am not supposed too, to the woman he's with right now, his third family. I said sorry eventhough they are the ones who should apologize to us.
My daughters and I we use to eat rice and sault just to survive before. The reason I married too because it's for them. The reason that's why I am here away from my kids is because of my x and his family. I have no pride anymore just to get support for our kids from their father. It was his lady who is sending very little support just because of mercy, she has hidden agenda, together with my x that's why she's nice a little. I can feel that they are planning to take my kids from me.
What should I do they have lots of money? Can I get my children here without his approval using my maiden name that what is on their birth certificate? He used to beat me up before. And now they're on vacation in Philippines for christmas. And they want my kids there. It was my parents who has been taking good care of them. My x is now a very rich man because he has bis own company and resort and businesses now. His lady is only giving 15k a month and started only 3 mnths ago because I stoopd down my level from them. Please advice me. Thank you so much. I have no peace of mind.
Sorry for the wrong spelling, I mean live and not leave. And I am not that good in english. Thank you from my humble heart.
Hi Jazz. It's not clear to me if you're trying to petition for a child name change in the U.S. or Philippines. If it's the latter, you can file a motion in court without the father's consent, but it's not guaranteed it would be accepted. There's a variety of conditions that can determine success or failure, such as who has the authority to petition, whether or not notifications are sent out, time frame to answer notifications, objections, parental rights, etc.
I changed my name back to my maiden name when I divorced 6 years ago. I have my maiden name on SS card, drivers license, bank, taxes, and almost everything else. The one thing I did not change was medical accounts for my children. My children and I use the same doctor's, so it was easier for me to keep their accounts in my married name and my account in my maiden name (the name I use). I also have to summit those bills to my kids father and I don't want my charges on there. My ex has noticed that my married name is on those bills and has requested I update it. Is it a problem for me to keep my married name on those accounts?
Your own experience would suggest it is not a problem, as you've been able to navigate it without issue.
Hi Valera,
I love your blog! I got married 2.5 years ago and kept my maiden name both legally and professionally. The marriage certificate only has my maiden name. I am an attorney and would like to continue practicing under my maiden name, but want to legally change my name to my husband's last name.
Is it a problem that my marriage certificate only has my maiden name? Can my paychecks at work still be in my maiden name? Can I keep a bank account in my maiden name? And do professional licenses have to me changed from my maiden name?
Thanks for the tips!
Meg
Depends on the state. For most states, it doesn't matter. For a few, the name on the certificate must match what the change-to name becomes.
That's strictly up to your employer and if your bank is willing to honor it. It typically isn't a problem.
You'd have to contact your state's licensing board to determine that. It's possible your licenses won't have to be changed/reissued, but your legal name change will have to be noted within their internal records.
To make a very long story short, I filed an application for a marriage license in Washington state in 2006. The clergymen who married my now ex husband and I never turned in the required documentation after the marriage. He didn't provide us with the required documentation either.
We had a child together and then divorced in 2009. The divorce was granted and I kept my last name as what I thought at the time was my legal last name as I thought it was changed when I married. My last name on my social is my married name, and on my drivers license is also my married name. I am now trying to get a drivers license in a different state from where I was married and they require a certified copy of my marriage certificate in order to prove that I am who I say I am. This is how I found out that my marriage documents were never turned in.
Because this information was never turned was my name ever legally changed? And if not, how do I go about changing the name on my social security card and drivers license back to my maiden name? Just as an additional FYI the name change to my married name happened with the non certified decorative copy of my marriage certificate. Any help and advice would be awesome. Thank you!
Yes, it was.
It was legally changed, but to return to your maiden you'll have to petitiion the court. If your divorce decree included an order to restore your maiden name, you could just use that document. If not, then it's off to court.
I'm in California and got married 12 years ago, but never changed my last name. From what I've researched, there is no time limit to when I can change my last name.
My husband wants to pay to legally change his last name. If I decide to take my husband's last name after he changes it, will I be able to take the new or does it have to be the old one since we married under his old name?
Hi Esther. It can take the new name or the old name.
Upon marrying I changed my last name to my husband's. 8 years later, my husband's family have all changed their last names or disowned us and we both are wanting to change our last names back to my maiden name and change our children's last names as well to my maiden name. How do I pull this all off?
Hi Felicia. You'd have to change your names by petitioning the court.
Hello! I'll be getting married in January and I'm confused. I'd like to have my new last name on my marriage certificate but I'm not sure if that means I legally have to then go through the process of changing my name everywhere else and spend 100's of dollars to change it if im not ready. I sort of just want it on the certificate to look nice and keep my maiden name and same Social security number the same until I'm ready. What exactly do I do in my case? Thanks.
Nothing. Literally, do nothing and your name will remain the same. Your marriage certificate wouldn't serve any official purpose until you decide to later make use of it.
I got married in September of this year. I signed the marriage license with his last name. Do I have to change my drivers license and all the other documents right away to have his last name on it? If not, how long can you go without changing those documents?
No.
As long as you need. There's no time limit or expiration.
Hello,
I left a comment a few weeks ago and found your answer very helpful, thank you!!
I have another question though, So I got married this year and I am going through the process of divorce right now. I changed my SS Card and my driver's license to carry my married name but everything else still has my maiden name on it. I am not sure whether my divorce will be finalized by the end of the year.
How will this affect my income taxes if my legal name is my married name but my work and paystubs have my maiden name on it? Will my name be a big issue if I cannot change my ss and license over before the year ends?
You'll have to make sure your name is updated at your place of employment.
You previously mentioned that you already changed them over? Please clarify.
Hello Valera,
I meant if I cannot change my married name on my SS and driver's License back to may maiden name before the year ends. I just don't want to go through the hassle of changing all my documents and records to my married name only to have to change them back to my maiden name a few week later once the divorce is finalized.
I guess another question I have is would I have to go through a tax specialist or a different process to get my taxes done If I do not change my name at work?
Thank You for the advise, I appreciate it.
You'll need your place of employment to update their records to reflect your current legal name, which is your married name. When they submit their taxes, the name they submit for their employees must match what's on file with the IRS. Same goes for state taxes. Take a look at the taxes and name change article that discusses tax filing and divorce.
Now, if your divorce is likely to be finalized well before your employer submits next cycle's taxes, then it may not matter. In that instance you may be able to wait until your divorce is finalized and your maiden name is restored. Your employer wouldn't have to update anything.
Any regular tax specialist should be able to deal with this.
I am still legally married yet i have not seen or heard from my "husband" since we got married. I live in ohio. I foolishly took his name and now i would like to resume using my maiden name. Can i go to SS dept and change my name on my card without going to court? Melissa
Hi Melissa. You'd have to get a divorce or annulment. With an annulment you can request the court restore your maiden name. The document the court provides is what you can take to the SS office to change your name back.
Hi Valera,
Thank you for helping. I am a healthcare provider in Florida. I was married a little over a year ago and have not changed my name. I want to use my maiden name professionally (on my healthcare license, to sign prescriptions, etc.). I want my name to be hyphenated with my husbands for all other personal matters (bank, passport, DL, etc.). I am pregnant and I want our child to take only my husbands name. Is all of this possible if I change my name legally to our hyphenated names?
As long as your state licensing board and employer okays it, you'll be fine.
I was married 3 years ago, changed my name on my SS card, but never my ID card (as it wasn't expired)
Just recently it became expired, I was wondering if I needed to change my last name with the DMV or if I can leave it as my maiden name
Hi Erica. When you renew, you'll have to change it to what's on your SS card.
I changed my name on Ss and all docs but my apt lease is under my maiden name, do I have to tell them or can I just sign it using my maiden name?
Hi Emily. Whether you sign with your maiden or changed name, your identity wouldn't really be in question. It's not as though you're trying to escape debt or commit fraud. Some people just take more time than others to notify all parties of their name being changed. Some institutions are prioritized over others. Having said that, it best to notify such parties of your name change so that they may update their records.
I am married and legally changed last name to my husband's. Shortly thereafter stopped working after having 2 children with special needs. I'm a licenced mental health professional (prior to marriage) that wants to start rebuilding my career and would prefer to hyphenate my last name or return to maiden name altogether. Hyphenated name isnt the most ideal sounding, unfortunately…rhymes to default. Your suggestions appreciated.
Hi Kendall. If you're looking to legally change your name, then the process would be to go through a court petitioned name change. At that point, you could choose whichever name you prefer, as the process would be the same.
I am a Vet. I was told by the VA to file a claim for disability and when I went to the VA claims office, the VA claims officer told me to sign the claim as my maiden name, at the time I was separated (but not "legally" separated) and my social security card lists "only" my married name. I told the claims officer about the separation, and showed him my social security card and drivers license which listed only my first name and my married name but he told me "it didn't matter because it was best to sign my claim using my maiden because that was the name that the Military knew me as when I was in the Military and that if I signed the claim using my married name, the VA would take forever to put the two and two together."
He said by signing it using my maiden name would help them find me faster in the system. So I signed the claim as my maiden name at the instruction of the VA claims officer and it was my legal name at the time I served in the Military. I have been very concerned and confused legally about this. But I did later on tell the regional claims office via an Affidavit that I had been instructed to sign my claim using my maiden because the VA claim's officer told me to sign it that way so that the Military could identify me.
And I had also told the regional office over the phone that my married name was EX: Mary Smith but that my married name was EX: Mary Jones and they said they would note it in my file that my married name being EX: Mary Smith. I never heard anything back from them about it so I'm assuming it was Ok, but who knows with the VA especially when filing a claim. Was that legally ok to do?
Also I have been having to submit Affidavits and "since the Military knew me as only my maiden name" and I was instructed to sign the claim as my maiden name I have signed my affidavits as my name by adding "both" my maiden and married name, but my social security card only list my married name. I read on the internet that if the business which in this case, would be the government, that it would be legally ok to use both names in things pertaining to the business and to sign your name as
EX: Mary Smith Jones
so that the business can identify you, which sort of matches what the VA claims officer told me when he said, sign it as the name the Military knew by at the time you were in Military.
So "in this case" would it be legal to sign my name as my maiden name "or" sign my Affidavits using both my maiden and married name? This is very legally confusing especially pertaining to signing my Affidavits. Is there a code of laws or something legally specific I can refer to that states it's ok to sign your name as you maiden name on legal documents if the legal documents were pertaining to something that happen to you at the time the business knew you only by your maiden name?
Thank you.
Here is the website that I found that said it was ok to sign your maiden even though your legal married name is different if the business knew you as only your maiden name.
https://www.marriagenamechange.com/blog/maiden-name/
1. In professional contexts, particularly specialized professions
If you have spent the last decade building up a professional identity and reputation, you will not want to quickly cast that off! Some people change their legal name, but continue to use their maiden name after marriage. This can be tricky when people make out checks to you, for instance, but you often just need to talk to your bank and establish that checks may be deposited in your maiden name. You also may be able to obtain authorization to do business as your new name without changing documents—this is called a “doing business as” approval, or DBA.
Licensing and legal documents may reflect your new name, but some people get around this by adding a last name: for instance, if your maiden name was Lesley Hastings, you could adopt the last name Smith by becoming Lesley Hastings Smith. This means you can often change legal documents but keep letterhead the same. In any case, there are many ways to get around the differences between legal name and the name your professional contacts know you by.
Could a "One in the Same Person Affidavit" by my spouse submitted to the VA help cover me legally?
Hi Mary. As mentioned in the comment below, you may want to get in contact with a VA lawyer to discuss this issue. Such an affidavit may be useful or unnecessary.
Following the advise of your claims officer was appropriate. Different institutions have different procedures in place, some of which may seem counterintuitive.
You can try contacting the VA in writing, via certified mail, to try and get a response back. This will also allow you to have a document inserted in your record where you've brought up this issue and its history.
You're fine, as you're following the advise of the VA claims officer.
The VA claims officer suggested you sign using your maiden, not your maiden and married, so that's their recommended path. You'll have to ask yourself, for whomever is looking at your file at the given moment, are they more likely to have an easy time dealing with just your maiden name (which is what's in their system) or your maiden married (which is not)? You'll have to rely on their "trying to put it together" or noticing a notation in a file somewhere.
Much of what you're referencing has to do with DBA, taxes, and ease of managing one's business under a trade name. It's not really related to your situation.
What you're dealing with is an identity verification issue, and legal problems arise when there are folks attempting to commit fraud. That's not what you're describing.
This ball started rolling due to the VA claims officer suggesting you sign your maiden name. He/she suggested this for a reason (they understand the VA's system), so had you gone against that advise, your situation may be worse.
As mentioned previously, you can contact the VA in writing, detailing this history, requesting verification that what has transpired has been appropriate, and if there's anything you need to do to clarify any aspect of your identity.
Also, consider contacting a VA attorney who specializes in these matters.
Hi,
I'm sorry if I'm asking questions previously asked. There are so many messages on here I just couldn't read them all.
I've been divorced for a couple yrs now but At the time of the divorce I kept my ex husbands last name. The first question I have is, is it legal for me to use my maiden name to get a bank account?
I live in MA. The second question is, Do you know how much it would cost me to change my name back to my maiden name? Wish I'd done it during the divorce but for kids I thought it would be best not to. Now as my ex has remarried and had another child I've decided even though I've had his name for 40 yrs and felt it's been my name most of my life I've changed my mind about keeping it. I know it will cost me to change it but I don't have much money so that's why I'm asking this.
Oh and at the time of the divorce it was put down that I could change to maiden name I just never did it. Would I be able to just change everything without going to court now even though I've been divorced for 3 yrs now ?
If your divorce decree has an order restoring your maiden name, then you can just use that document to complete your name change without having to go the court route.
Thank you very much.
Hi,
I have been married for four years, and I am still quite confused over the whole name changing process and all it entails.
I have only changed my name on my tax forms, and with documents that are work related . My banking information, passport, and pretty much everything else is still in my Maiden name. When I went for a Vulnerable Sector Check for my teaching positon , I inquired whether this was a problem , and they informed me it was no issue to go by both names.
Recently though, I have been wondering will this become a problem as I file for government issued document for my child who has the same last name as my husband?
Would you suggest being consistent with all forms of legal documents, or is using both names an OK way to continue until I am 100% committed to making the change?
Thank you
Hi Kristina. Being consistent is best. At a minimum, you'll want to make sure your legal name is used for government forms/purposes, and tax filings. Banking and passport can remain as-is, as long as you can properly manage it, but it's still best to get those sort of documents in sync.
I got divorced a few years ago. I kept my husband's last name. I did not revert back to maiden name. I now want to get remarried but want to take my maiden name as last name, instead of my new husband's name. Can I do this legally without going back to court?
Hi Colleen. If your divorce decree has an order restoring your maiden name, you can use that to effect a name change. Otherwise, you'll have to get a court order.
I recently got married and changed my name to my husbands on our marriage license but have not changed with SS, DL, etc yet. He had some tax issues in the past which he is in the process of cleaning up. Is it best to wait to change my name officially until he does so or does it not matter? Also, some wedding gifts were checks made out to my new name – am I able to deposit into my account as my maiden name or able to add my new name to my existing account without changing with SS?
It shouldn't make much difference.
That's entirely up to your bank. If you can present them a copy of your marriage certificate to validate the name change, that may be enough for them to make an exception or notate your account to allow such future deposits.
Hello Valera,
I have been married for 3 years and recently changed my Driver's license to my married name due to pressures from my husband. Only my driver's license has my married name, my passport and social security still have my maiden name. I want to change my driver's license back to my maiden name because I regret the name change. Can I go back to the driver's license office to change it or do i need a court order or divorce decree? I had to take my marriage license with e to do the name change. The name change on my driver's license sometimes causes issues when I need to verify who I am because ll my other documents have my maiden name but my identification has my married name?
That is what you'll need. A court order would do it.
Hello,
I got married and divorced within the same year. I changed my name on my social and license but everything else still has my maiden name. I'm still waiting for the divorce papers to be finalized. I need to buy a new car due to an accident and was just wondering if my name situation would present a problem or if I had to wait until my divorce is finalized.
As long as you use your current legal name, which is what's on your social, then you should be fine. Off topic: If you haven't already, you may want to look into the consequences of making large purchases (such as a vehicle) during a divorce. It has the potential to be problematic if not properly navigated.
Hello Valera,
Just got married a few weeks ago in California. I took my new hubby's last name in the marriage license but have not updated SS cars, license, passport, etc. I'm considering opening up a new bank/saving account to transfer premarital assets to, since a large portion is designated to care for my parents in the future and I want to make sure that doesn't become community property. Am I allowed to open this new checking/savings account with my maiden name, since all my documentation still carries my maiden name?
Thank you!
Hi Magda. Yes, you can use your maiden name.
October 27, 2016
I am looking to start a new business but I want put everything under my name using another last name other than my married name. My husband and I already own another business together. I don't want my new business to be connected to my husbands name if possible to avoid conflict of interest between both businesses. So if someone did a search on my new business there would be no connection through our last name. What are my options?
Forgot to mention I am in Californis
Hi Teresa. Look into registering a DBA using your preferred name.
Prior to his marriage, Edward Garber had been in financial difficulty and had a poor credit rating. His wife, Natalie, applied for a credit card in her family name, fearing that she would be turned down if she used her married name of Garber. She was told that she must use her married name on a credit application. Could Natalie have used her family name when she applied for credit
She'd have to use whichever was her legal name, or whichever name is on the social security card. Credit checks are done against the social security number, and a name mismatch may result in an application rejection, regardless of creditworthiness. Credit bureaus are able to maintain a history of name changes, but it's not a good idea to rely on that when applying for credit.
I have been legally married over 15 years and have not changed any documents to my married name, I still use my maiden name. Will that become a problem?
Hi Lisa. That won't be a problem at all.
I just got married in CA and moved my last name to my middle name and changed my last name to my husbands name on the marriage license ONLY. I have not yet updated my DL, SS, bank info, etc. The decision truly pained me and I wish I could reverse it. Do I have to change my name with these institutions/will I be penalized in any way? If I do not update my new name with SS am I still obligated to update it with my HR at work for tax reasons?
Also, if my husband and I later decide to take each others name will we need to get a court order? Thank you for your time!
No, it's optional. There's no penalty.
No, you don't have to notify anyone at work.
No, just use a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
Hello. I am married x 6 months but still have my maiden name on all docs including the married license. I am a professional with a business, board certifications and licenses etc and would prefer not to change my name on all of these. I heard of the option of adding my husband's name (non-hyphenated) to use socially, match with future kids (to avoid hassle with travel, school etc) and maybe for joint financial accounts; while keeping my maiden name professionally on licenses, board certification, my PLLC etc.
How do I "add" my husband's name to use interchangeably with my maiden name? what agencies should I make the change at and which should I leave as my maiden name for professional reasons?
I hear I can change my passport and DL to my married name (to avoid issues with traveling with our kids and with school) but not my social security card i.e. I keep my maiden name on my SS card (where tax return and payroll are tied to); is that adequate and what issues do you see arising due to the mismatch? What name do I use for voters registration? What agency do I "add" my husbands name? If we are co-signing a lease, mortgage or other joint ventures, which name do I use?
This is driving me nuts! This can't be an unusual situation :-).
That depends on if you're going to legally change your last name to add your husband's, or if you're going to keep your legal name as just your maiden, while using your husband's.
If it's the prior, you'll notify the SSA, then driver's license office, passport, and any third-party organizations. You'll also notify your state licensing board to determine if they merely need notification or is it required that new certificates and licenses be issued. They may just require their internal records be updated to reference your new, legal name, while maintaining your maiden name as your professional, licensed name.
If it's the latter, then you don't need to do much of anything, as you're just using it socially without any legal implications.
SS card and driver's license names should match. SS card changed first, so that the DMV can query their database for a name match/mismatch. It's unlikely you'll be able to update your driver's license without first updating your SS record.
Passports name changes can be done on a separate track, before or after SS or driver's license changes.
Your taxes are filed using the name on your SS card. So whichever you change it to (or not change it to), you'll want to make sure HR/payroll has your current name on file.
Your current legal name, which is what's on your SS card. Some voter registration rolls cross reference the voter identification number with the social security number and/or driver's license number, so that's another reason why it's useful for your SS and driver's license to match.
Whichever is your legal name, which is the name on your SS card.
It's quite common. Good luck.
You are awesome! Thank you and happy new year :-)
I recently was married (2nd marriage). My marriage license gives me the option to change my name however I want to keep my maiden name legally but update credit cards, rewards programs, etc. with my married name. Can I do that without changing DL, SSC, Passport, etc.
Hi Lisa. You may be able to do that for some things that won't cross-reference your legal name (e.g., rewards programs), but for things like credit cards or bank accounts, that probably won't fly, as the name wouldn't match what's on your social security record.
Hi, I am a resident and want to avoid annoying situations just by using my maiden name hyphen husbands name. Is it ok for me to ad my husbands name without the hyphen on a daily and without going through a legal process?
Hi Pascale. As long as you make sure you're using the hyphenated version when filling out government-based forms, taxes, insurance, loan requests, anything employment related, etc. Anything that might cross-reference your legal name in full. Even if you run into a situation where a name mismatch occurs, you should be able to explain the minor deviation of a single hyphen character.
Hi, my wife had two first names given at birth, but never used the second name if she could avoid it. On our marriage certificate she used both first names because it was what was on her birth certificate. She's now gone to social security and changed her name to adopt my last name, with her maiden name as middle. They dropped the second first name though. Is that going to cause us issues, as her social security card now doesn't match our marriage certificate?
California, btw
Hi Tyler. No, it won't be a problem.
Hi I got married 2 years ago and changed my last name to my middle name and got my husbands name as my last name on my marriage certificate ONLY and DID NOT change it anywhere else. My SS, DL, Mortgage, Credits and everything is still under my original maiden name. Do i have to change it anywhere? Will i get in trouble later on ?
Hi,
I recently got married and took my husband's last name. I went through a lot of anxiety behind changong my name as it holds quite a bit of weight for me personally and professionally. Initially, I decided on hyphenating. However, ended up solely changing it to my husband's because it's what was written on my marriage certificate and was told it's what had to happen as it was already registered. Now that it's changed, I'm still struggling over the decision. In California, is it possible to add my maiden name back onto my name as part of my middle name? And if so, how? Is it as simple as it was changing it the first time or do I have to obtain a request or documentation from a other government office before heading down to SSA again?
Hi Dom. Since you've changed your name once already, you would have to get a court order to change it again. It's not as expedient as a marriage-related name change, but still a straight-forward process. The California name change page has a section that discussing going through a general adult name change.
I changed my name with SSA in 2011 when I got married. My tax preparer needs me to sign the tax form 8879 and Georgia form 500, but my maiden name is on the 8879 form. What name do I sign?
Hi Gina. Your taxes should be filed using the name on your SS record. If there's a mismatch, try to correct it. But you should ultimately defer to the judgment of your tax preparer, as he/she may be able to send corrections/amendments along with the filing.
Hi,
I changed my name on ssn and have a new ID. I have my old driver's license and credit card which still reflect my maiden name. Can I still use them? I have started the process to change over to my new name for all my cards.
Is it ok to still use old name until new cards come?
Yes, they're still valid.
My 1st husband passed away and I am now going to remarry. I am deciding if I should change my name to my new husbands last name or to using my 1st husbands last name along with my new husbands last name. I was married to my 1st husband for 40 years.
If I would use both last names, would I have to use that on all documents and sign with both names on all documents (checks, taxes, etc.)?
Is it easier to do one or the other?
Thank you for your help.
Cathy
Yes, for such legal documents.
I don't really see much difference. It's just a personal preference.
I'm an actor and have used my maiden name for my entire career thus far – I'm also listed under various unions with my maiden name – SAG/AFTRA, AEA, etc… I'm getting married this November (YAY!!!), and would like to take his name, but keep using my maiden name since it's what I have established with my acting career. Would I still change my passport, DL, and SS# to his name, because how would that affect me if I went on tour and they had me listed as my professional name? It's just one giant mess – hahaha! Also, if I legally change my last name to his, and still do professional acting jobs under my maiden name – does that mess up taxes (I'm assuming not due to it all being under my SS#)? Thank you for any and all help in this matter!!! All the best!!! :-)
It shouldn't affect anything. One is your legal name, the other's your stage name. You can look into registering your maiden as a DBA.
Yes, you can continue doing work under your maiden name.
As long as you file your taxes under the name matching your SSN, you're fine.
Thank you sooooooo much for responding – I really appreciate it! :-)
HI Valera –
I'm located in NY. I recently got married in August and still debating on which name to go by. I'm considering adding my husband's last name as a second last name (no hyphen) but I have a few questions.
-When we went in for our marriage license since I was unsure of what name I would take the clerk added his name under the line "surname after marriage" and sad this would give me the option to change my name at any point if I choose. Now since she only added his name, would I still be able to legally change it to First Middle Maiden HisLastName.
-If I'm able to have two last names, I know I would have to change it at SS, passport and DMV. Anywhere else where I would have to change my name? Considering that my maiden name will still be part of my legal name, do I have to notify banks, credit cards, professional licensing board?
-Do I have to come up with a new signature showing both names?
-Do I always have to use both last name or can I interchange?
Thank you
Angela
Unlikely. Some states require the name on the license, and subsequent certificate, match what you intend to change it to.
Yes, notify all. Even though your last name still contains your maiden name, it's still treated as an entirely new name.
You would just sign your current, legal, changed name.
In formal situations, use your full name. For less formal circumstances, you can use less.
Hello,
I am an Indian citizen currently on L2 visa. My name on marriage certificate is Poornima. H . R. I've changed my surname legally in India to poornima jxxxxxmath through an affidavit. Passport have my new name .my husband's passport states this new name for spouse. I don't have the affidavit with me. I need SSN now for DMV and in turn for EAD and all. Do i need the affidavit for proof of name change to SSN office , as its all verified while issuing passport. Please help me in this matter.
Hi Poornima. Does your visa reflect your name change? If so, can you present that to the SSA?
Hi valera
Yes, my visa reflects the name change. I will try for SSN now. But i have a doubt. What should i apply for first? EAD or SSN?
Hi Poornima. You don't need a SSN to apply for an EAD. It may ask if you have a SSN, but it's not mandatory. You can do the EAD first.
I have been using my maiden name-married name for 37 years. However, I would like to remove the hyphen only as it creates problems when I try to book airline tickets, hotel reservations, etc. The hyphen is not an accepted character (must be alphabetical only). My passport is up for renewal shortly so wondering if there is anything I need to do to have just the hyphen removed.
The second question I have is what would I need to do to remove my maiden name and just keep my married name.
Hi Joan. It would be a court petitioned name change for either.
Hi Valera,
I got married in August and have already legally changed my name with SSA and on my license, but I have not notified my bank of my name change. If I write a rent check that is in my maiden name, but sign in with my new name, is it still valid, or will my landlord have trouble cashing or depositing it?
Also I'm having trouble contacting my health insurance provider to notify them of my name change, and my premium for the month is due! If I mail them a check with my maiden name, which name should I sign it with for now? Or should I just use an easier payment method until my name is consistent everywhere?
Thanks in advance!
Kim in CT.
Yes, it's still valid, but you can sign it with your maiden name. You could even sign "maiden married" to make the connection. It's unlikely to matter either way.
It's unlikely to be a problem. Unless someone's commiting check fraud, the signature line on a personal check doesn't mean much.
You can sign with what's on file, or use "maiden married" (to tie both together), or specify the change in the memo block, or draft a letter notifying them of the name change. The latter the best option as it provides them notification. In your notification letter you can request they provide written confirmation that it's been received and processed.
Yes, that's a good approach.
Hi, I got married 7 years ago and never changed my last name on anything. My husband is completely okay with that. As his beneficiary on retirement and insurance, he listed my name using his last name. We'd like to know if I would have a problem with my last name not matching records, if anything every happened to him.
Hi Trinity. This could be a problem for some companies/organizations. Name mismatches could result in questioning your identity. Even if a particular agent believes everything is on the up-and-up, company standards may require verification. It's worth contacting those organizations to notify them of your legal name.
Thank you so much.