Use Your Maiden Name Even After a Name Change

Use Your Maiden Name Even After a Name Change

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

You could achieve the best of both worlds where:

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

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

1. In professional contexts

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

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

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

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

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

Everyone knows you by your maiden name

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

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

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

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

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

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

But you might not have to undergo a complete reset…

Starting over with your married name

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Doing business in your maiden name

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

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

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

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

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

Using your maiden name as a licensed professional

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. In social contexts

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

So, why bother changing?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Paperwork not finished

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

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

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

When using your maiden name is unavoidable

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

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

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

But sometimes the decision is out of your hands…

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

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

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

Don't crack out of turn

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

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

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

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

Managing multiple identities

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Haven't decided to go through with it

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

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

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

Buying yourself some time

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

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

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

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

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

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

Closing thoughts on using your maiden name

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

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

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

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

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3,167 Comments

  1. I'm married and have always used my maiden name for filing taxes. I used my married name (husband's name) on my DL and bank information, however, this is getting too confusing. I want to use my maiden name on everything. Can I do that?

    • I want to use my maiden name on everything. Can I do that?

      You'll have to file your taxes under the name reflected on your social security card/record. If that's still your maiden, then you'll use your maiden. If it's another name, then you can undergo a court petitioned name change to fully revert to your maiden name for all documents.

      • True! Thank you. That's good to know and I've always done that – it's the DL and the passport and bank accounts etc that I'm interested in having the same as the SSN name. Can I provide my social security card and request the name be changed to match or…?

        • Hi Andrea. DMV will typically want they name they issue on your license to match what's on your SS record. It's interesting that they issued you a card with a name mismatch. They may be willing to change it, although they may balk at doing so without your providing another document showing a new name change event, such as a court ordered name change.

          Bank accounts are more flexible, so that shouldn't pose as much of a problem. Passport is similar to DMV. What's the name change event you can cite for them to change your name again? Wanting to revert wouldn't really qualify without a supporting document justifying the change.

  2. I remarried 4 years ago, at that time I elected no name change on marriage certificate. Now I would like to take my husbands last name. How difficult will it be to change my name now?

  3. Hi! So I got married a few months ago but I am changing not only my last name but my first and middle names as well…it's a long story. I submitted my fingerprints to the FBI & Colorado bureau of investigation for a background check as required by the courts over 11 weeks ago and still haven't received my background check paperwork back (they say it could take up to 9 weeks). These documents are required by the courts in order to file for a full legal name change. We are planning on going on our honeymoon in Mexico in January. I'm starting to worry about traveling abroad, especially since I booked my plane ticket under my married name figuring the process would surely be completed by now. Any advice? What can I do if the name change isn't completed in time?

    • Hi Beario,

      You can travel under your current maiden name, then update your passport when you come back. Also, take a look at the following article and jump to the section that talks about changing your name on your plane ticket.

  4. Hi my name is Miraflor! i just want to ask regarding my maiden name i got married in denmark me and my husband agreed that i will used maiden instead of my last name, because he told me there is no problem about that. I am from philippines. After i change my passport and all my papers document i used my maiden MIRAFLOR MUTIA HANSEN. when i was single my name is MIRAFLOR MUTIA DUCA. But the problem is when i got my passport My name there MIRAFLOR DUCA HANSEN. is really big problem. IS there any rules about that i cannot used my maiden name? youre reply is higly appriciated! Thank you and more power.

    Miraflor

    • Hi Miraflor. Which country is your passport from? And are you saying your passport office made a mistake in processing your renewal?

  5. I've been married 20 years & took my husbands last name but never changed my SS name. My drivers license expired & I can't renew till I get a new SS with married name, but SS won't give me new card/married name because I don't have valid photo ID. No other ID in married name. Work ins in maiden since they go by legal SS name. Been to both DL office & SS office, they both state they can't help me. What do I do?

    • Hi Kaye. Did you bring in additional supporting documents, such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate, your driver's license (even though it's expired)? If that doesn't serve as sufficient evidence of your name change, then you may have to get a court order for a name change.

  6. I married nineteen years ago and a few days before I naturalized, I thought thought that to save time I could change my name to married name and I did. So all my legal documents have my married name only. I got my graduate degree and I had to use my legal last name, my married name. Now I want to have my maiden name back. Is it possible to change my name and even more, can I change my name on professional documents as degrees? I am planning to get a professional license. Can I use my maiden name or will I need to change everything first to maiden? Thank you so much.

  7. When I got married I hypenated my name and changed it through social security any everything. Now I want to drop my maiden name and only go by my married name. Do I need to file a petition through the court to do that? Also, what things can I expect with a name change through a court order and not by normal way of marriage?

  8. Hi, I'm so glad that I stumbled onto this website. I have a couple of questions that I hope you could answer for me. First, my fiance and I are planning to elope to Santa Barbara courthouse on Dec. 17th 2015. We want to keep it a secret from both our families until we can have a grand ceremony 2 years from now. I have decided to sign the marriage certificate using his last name. So here is the predicament; I don't want to change my maiden name yet, but I do worry that come tax season I might have trouble proving that I a married to him specially if we are planning to file jointly. Second, do I have to change any information on my W-4? What do I have to change/ or add to help smooth the transition when I do decide to legally change my maiden name to his? I'm worried that it will create problems legally down the road. please help!
    thanks,
    Vero from California.

    • I don't want to change my maiden name yet, but I do worry that come tax season I might have trouble proving that I a married to him specially if we are planning to file jointly.

      That won't pose a problem. Changing your name isn't necessary to provide proof of marriage. Your marriage certificate (even if it shows an intention to later change your name) doesn't bind you to that declaration. The document serves as proof of marriage, and that's what the tax office needs.

      Second, do I have to change any information on my W-4?

      No, not if you're not yet changing your name.

      What do I have to change/ or add to help smooth the transition when I do decide to legally change my maiden name to his?

      Primary are social security, driver's license, passport, employer. Then follow-up with the remaining leftover organizations.

  9. I am divorced and still use my married name but I am pregnant and would like to give child my maiden name at birth.. Is that possible?

  10. hi I'm Jessica and I want to know if I married a guy to fix him papers meaning help him become a us citizen but keep my single name would that count for him to become a us citizen ?

  11. hi I'm Jessica and I want to know if I marry but I want to keep my single name would that affect my documents such as medical and ssi because I also get ssi so if I marry but keep my name the same would all that change too?

  12. Hello,
    I got married in 2010 and I have changed my last name thru the court into my husband's last name but I have never ever changed any documents. I'm still using my maiden name. We are not living in USA anymore but I would like to know how the process may look like if I would like to change all my documents for his last name or during the divorce process. Would I will have a big problems with that? Thank You.

    • Hi Karen. If you now want to change your name to your husband's, then you can use your court order. If you're asking about changing your name back to your maiden name following divorce, then there's really nothing that needs to be done, as you've never formally changed your name once you were granted the court order. Had you previously gone through the process of changing your documents, you'd request the judge restore your maiden name during the divorce proceedings. Then you'd use your divorce decree to return to your maiden name. But, as previously stated, that's unnecessary in your case.

  13. Hi! I have a question. I want to get married and do wanna change my last name and take my husbands last name. I put it down to show on my marriage license but I don't wanna make those changes just yet because I'm a DACA recipient and wanna do that when it's time for me to renew my work permit. My question is would I get in trouble if I keep using my maiden name after I get married? Would it affect the fact that my fiance after getting married wants to add me on his work insurance. Would that be a problem if I stated to change to his but hasn't yet? Would he still be able to do so?
    Thank you in advance!
    Ana

    • Hi Ana. Not changing your name until later won't pose any problems. Just continue using your current name as you always have.

  14. Hello! I got married in 2010, and when I signed my marriage license I forgot to add my maiden name. I need to get identification in my married name but still need my maiden name, because I married late in life and retired before I married so I need my maiden name on my identification with my new name.
    What do I do, how can I add my maiden name to my already existing marriage license? Need help.

    • Hi Carolyn. How are you looking to add your maiden name to your existing name? As part of your middle name. As part of your last name? Also, you wouldn't be able to alter your marriage license.

  15. If I'm married and my husband and I are buying a car, well financing a car , and on the paper work it has his last name but my drivers license has my maiden name , but my new name is on my new ss card could I just give them a copy of it if the bank asks questions ?

  16. Hi. Getting married in NYC at the courthouse. I live in Minnesota. My fiancée hates a hyphen. Wondering if I could do my First Middle Maiden Name (added to my middle) and then his last name?! Would this be a problem? So on marriage certificate put his last name, then in MN just add my last name to my middle as I want to keep both?!

    • Hi Amanda. I don't believe NY recognizes appending your maiden name to an existing middle. The county clerk where you plan to acquire your license can verify. Afterward, there may also be an issue with your MN driver's license office not recognizing such a change in your middle name, even if the NY vital records office issues a certified marriage certificate reflecting your preferred change. So, you'll want to get verification from both locations ahead of time.

  17. I have a question. I got married 11 years ago in New York. My marriage certificate has my maiden name and my husband's name hyphenated. Since then I only changed my health insurance coverage from work, life insurance policy and my passport to my hyphenated name. I still use just my maiden name on my driver's license, on my SS card, credit cards, bank accounts and for my professional identity. Is this okay? I have never run into a problem but can I?

    • Hi Lorriane. It's unlikely to be much of an issue, as (I assume) it wouldn't be problematic for you to verify your identity. There may be an issue when it comes time to update or renew your passport, or even request it be reissued due to it being lost or stolen. They'll need various identity documents to process your application.

  18. i arrived here in Lenoir on a k1 visa last August 23 and i married my fiance September 23. I haven't applied yet for social security card since my husband told me i could apply after marriage but when we went to SSA they refused my application since i wanted to use my husbands name. SSA advised us to go to the nearest immigration to ask if they could extend the 90 days visa to me which will expire on November 20 then go back SSA for applying social security card. I'm confused with my situation now, i need advise thank you.

    • Hi Marlyn. Your wording suggests there's a problem with your application that's not specific to name change. If that's the case, then it's a good idea to follow the SSA's recommendation. If that's not the case, did you bring proof of marriage to the SSA, such as a certified marriage certificate?

  19. I recently got married and the marriage license indicated that I would drop my maiden name and take my husbands last name. I still would like to do this, but I would like to add my maiden name into my middle name. If I have not went through the process of changing my name through SS or DOL, is it still possible for me to add my maiden name as a second middle name without going through a court appeal process?

    • Hi Sara. That's typically not a problem. Some states, such as California, are a bit more stringent about allowing a name change to deviate what's specified on the license.

  20. Hi,

    I do not want to change my name, but my fiance wants me to. We live in California and there is an option to do a name change when we get our marriage license. If I hyphenate on my marriage license only, do I have to change my name everywhere else? Or can I continue using my own last name on all of my documents, even thought it is hyphenated on the marriage license?

    • Hi Crystal. If you hyphenate on your marriage license, while not changing it elsewhere, then your name wouldn't have really changed. In that circumstance, you'd continue using your own last name on everything.

  21. Recently married, added my husband's name and dropped previous married name on marriage certificate. Now I realize I should have hyphened both old married name and new married name. The reason being, I've had the previous married name most of my life ( will , property and stock accounts etc.)The property, will and stocks will be left to my grandchildren who have that same name. Is this the reason I should use to request a petition to change my married name to include the previous married name. My husband is fine with this. In fact he recommended it. I'm just not sure if the courts would agree this is a good reason. What is your opinion

    • Is this the reason I should use to request a petition to change my married name to include the previous married name. My husband is fine with this. In fact he recommended it. I'm just not sure if the courts would agree this is a good reason. What is your opinion

      That's a perfectly valid reason.

  22. Hi
    I got married in 2013, but I have only changed my passport and nothing else, ie not my bank, mortgage, tax office etc-these all remain in my maiden name… can I continue to do so or now passport is changed do I have to change everything else?
    Thanks
    Angela

    • Hi Angela. Although it's a good idea to make sure your documents are synchronized, you don't have to update your other credentials. You'll want to make sure the name on your airline tickets matches what's on your passport. It's also a good idea to carry around a certified copy of your marriage certificate when traveling in case there's ever a question about confirming your identity if a name mismatch occurs.

  23. Marrying a Brazil woman.. Will she have to change her name to mine if we get married? After we marry she will get a green card! Will her passport and green card have to have my last name?
    Thanks charles

  24. Hi. I am in the process of changing my name and just heard about the DBA (double barrel right??) My question is, if I add my husbands last name to my maiden name with social security and then on my drivers license… do I need to notify my bank? All my bills? Student loans? Or can I still go by my maiden name for those and only use both names for legal documents??

    • Hi Kari. You don't have to immediately, but it's a good idea to eventually get such documents up-to-date. For instance, if you update your driver's license, but not your bank info, you could face difficulty cashing a check as expeditiously as usual, assuming you don't have an alternative form of identification confirming your prior name. While it may not necessarily be much of a problem verifying your identity in such situations, it can get to be a hassle.

  25. I was married for the second time on 9/8/2015. I had been using my ex spouse's name for the past 11 years. The divorce decree granted me permission to change my name back to my maiden name I never did. When I filed for this new marriage license/certificate the clerk use my maiden name, base on my divorce decree. Now I need to change my name in the SS office/drivers license, work and nursing license. Do I need to have my name changed to my maiden name, then to my new husbands name? I have my birth certificate and divorce decree, I am concerned that I have a different name on the marriage certificate my maiden name and everywhere else is my ex spouses name.

  26. I live in New York (state) and had planned on marrying my fiancé in 2017 but now that he's switched jobs and lost his health insurance, we're contemplating just doing a courthouse wedding soon and keeping it on the down-low. We would like to still do something in 2017, seeing as we'd already started planning it but what I need to know is if I can wait that long after tying the knot to finally change my name. If so then our "wedding" will be a name changing ceremony. Is there a time frame for changing names after getting married?

    • what I need to know is if I can wait that long after tying the knot to finally change my name.

      Yes.

      Is there a time frame for changing names after getting married?

      No, there isn't.

  27. my daughter married for the last 8 years and using her name as Kajal Pandya. Now she wants to use her name as Kajal Pandya Pandey. Here Pandey is the surname of her husband whose full name is Mr.Sandeep B. Pandey. she got her documents with her husband name is marrige certificate and she has purhcase a house with joint name of herself and her husband or otherwise everywhere she is using her name as Kajal Pandya and would like to change as Kajal Pandya Pandey. IS THIS OK OR ANY LEGAL CONSEQUENCES ARISE IN DOING SO

    • Hi Dilipkumar. I don't see much of an issue that she would be concerned about. The change of name she's seeking is common. Now, if you're asking if there are legal consequences to her using a non-legal or non-exact version of her name, then that depends. For legal documentation, the actual legal name should be used. Are you or your daughter concerned about any particular inconsistencies in her name usage and how it might affect something in particular?

  28. Hello,
    I got married in 2010 and immediately changed my ssc and id to my first name and my husband's last name. However signed my marriage certificate with my maiden name. I wasn't too excited to change my maiden name to my husbands last name however were told it was necessary since we were going to petition for my husbands legalization process in the U.S in the future. We were informed it would be best to do that, come to find out after doing research 5 yrs later i could have kept my maiden name. So, my question is since we are currently going through this legalization process currently will it effect the process trying to change back to my maiden name and how can i go about doing this if not? Ive used his last name for 5 yrs and have (bank acct, taxes, Credit cards, DL, SS. Etc in that nsme and Never changed about two CC from maiden name..Please help and thank you in advance..

    • Hi Jess. You should be fine as long as you go through a proper court petitioned name change. You can then present your eventual court order confirming your name change event.

  29. Hi!
    When my husband and I got married 8 years ago, I kept my maiden name and haven't changed since. I recently lost my SS and want to apply for a new one – with his last name. Can I still use my marriage certificate which has my maiden name on it to change my last name on my SS? Or do I have to change my last name on my marriage certificate first?

    Thank you!

  30. My dilemma is my passport is still in my maiden name and holiday booked in maiden name, all other paperwork is in the married name, which I am now divorced, but I'm getting married in Vegas, but the photo Id is my passport will I be able to get married from the divorced name ie decree absolute cause I assume I can't get married from maiden name as that's not my name anymore, but I have no photo Id in my marriage name. Wedding date only in6 weeks. Confused if it can happen or nit

  31. I am due to be married in a couple of months and I am truly struggling with changing my maiden name. It is unique, reminds me of my heritage, and is deeply intertwined with my professional and personal identity. My fiancé was devastated when we discussed the possibility that I might not take his last name. I want to show him that I love and accept him AND his name– without compromising my numerous academic degrees, training certificates, and agency email address/logins/etc., bearing my maiden name.

    You see, I am a law enforcement officer and wear my maiden name on my uniform every day. I am widely known and respected by that name, and hold a highly visible position where I frequently speak in front of citizens and other public officials who know me by my maiden name. I have spent my career networking with people under my maiden name, and changing my name will certainly cause mass confusion and result in a mountain of paperwork. The thought of starting "from scratch" after all this time has me in tears.

    I suppose my question is this: Can I change my name on all documents yet still go by my maiden name professionally? I am particularly concerned about using an "alias" when working as a law enforcement officer– I don't want to lose anyone's trust because they feel I'm giving them a false name. Moreover, will I have to use my legal name on all documents related to training or certification through local colleges or training centers?

    I would inquire with someone at my agency directly, but we have chosen to keep our engagement and wedding completely private until after the big day. Plus there are very few female officers I could seek out for advice on such matters. My fiancé and I live in NC, USA.

    Please help us!

    • Can I change my name on all documents yet still go by my maiden name professionally?

      It's important how your employer handles it, systematically. If your name is changed within their database/records, will those changes be divulged publicly or it kept private? If it's publicly available information that can't be masked, then your concerns have come to fruition.

      Some have gone for an inverse approach—keeping the maiden name unchanged, while using the married name informally. Even to serve as a stop-gag until a final decision is made.

      Moreover, will I have to use my legal name on all documents related to training or certification through local colleges or training centers?

      If there are going to be lookups on your name (think background checks or social security number query), you'll likely have to provide your changed name. Anything that's legal-based would utilize your changed name.

      I would inquire with someone at my agency directly, but we have chosen to keep our engagement and wedding completely private until after the big day.

      Have you considered inquiring anonymously?

      • Thank you very much for your insight and suggestions. You bring up some important points I had yet to consider! I am not sure how to inquire anonymously, but may be able to look into it in other ways without raising too much suspicion.

        I had dearly hoped my training certificates and so on could continue to read "Alison MaidenName" instead of "Alison MarriedName" for consistency and such. However, we do register using our SS# which would be linked with my new legal name, likely making that impossible (based on my interpretation of your response).

        However, our tax information, payroll, etc., is handled by our HR office, which is a separate entity serving a number of public agencies. I could share my name change with them for record purposes, but I am not sure if that information would remain confidential or if I would need to divulge it to my employer. My employing agency would have no reason to randomly check for a name change with the HR office, so I may be able to make the change and keep it quiet– which would allow me to continue to function professionally without a fuss. If I can't keep it private, well…

        Officers' email addresses, business cards, uniforms, badges, and so on all feature our names, making a name change not only a hassle, but a costly one. If my agency would not allow me to continue to use my maiden name, all of those items would need to be replaced. Additionally, it would cause a great deal of confusion within my professional network and require me to personally reach out to every individual or agency with my old email address on file in order to provide my new address if I plan to continue receiving correspondence. Not to mention introducing myself to different audiences by different names… The horror!

        It's quite a spot I'm in, for sure. I wish name changes weren't so problematic, but I appreciate your thoughtful response and practical advice on the matter. You've certainly helped me reorganize my thoughts and consider some new options. Thank you!

  32. Hi, i live in NJ, I got married in 2010 and changed my drivers license to his last name, but everything else has my maiden name, I got divorced and I want to change my drivers license back to my name. Do I have to go through court? I never changed my name on Sosial security or other documents and my divorce paper has my maiden name on it but no order to change the name from his back to mine

    • Hi Anna. Even if you could have your divorce decree amended, after the fact, to order a restoration of your maiden name, it would be redundant considering your maiden name was listed as your current legal name on your decree. Have you tried presenting to the DMV your divorce decree (reflecting your maiden name) as an acceptable document to change your name? It may very well pass muster. If it's not accepted, would they 1) accept a divorce decree restoring your maiden name, even though your current name is your maiden name, or 2) do they require a court petition?

  33. Hi! I am a physician and recently got married. I'd like to take my husband's name legally, Myfirst Mymaidenasmiddle His Last. Can I still practice as Dr. Myfirst Mymaiden? would I be better off using a double last name such, without the hyphen?
    thanks!

    • Hi LG. There are doctors who practice under their maiden name, even though they've formally changed their names. You'll want to contact your medical licensing board for further guidance.

  34. Hi, I have a situation where I haven't got my I.D changed to my married name yet; my social security card shows my married name. My question is can I cash a check in my married name or do I have to change my I.D first.

    • Hi Jessica. It depends on the bank. Yours may allow it if you can provide sufficient proof of identity, such as your social security card and marriage certificate as proof of your name change.

  35. I am getting married in a month in California. I'm 42 and own multiple properties in on my own and have a long professional history/reputation. I am trying to decide what to put on marriage license to be the least complicated/confusing to maintain professional life and for the previously existing legal stuff and then moving forward together in marriage as unit.
    Choices being: First (Middle, Maiden) HisLast
    First, (Maiden), HisLast
    First, (Middle), MaidenLast HisLast
    First, (Middle), MaidenLast-HisLast

    Please help with the most savvy answer

    • Hi Alli. Option #2 (maiden to middle) is a straightforward and common choice. Another option is HisLast-MaidenLast, or even First, Middle-HisLast, MaidenLast. There's several combinations and sequences that could be cooked up.

      Ultimately, I wouldn't put much stock in choosing which is likely to lead to least complications, as you'll be deviating from your maiden name no matter what. The advantage one option has over the other will probably just be in the margins. Choose whichever you prefer, and consider using your professional name as you always have, while using your married name for legal and tax purposes.

      • Any thoughts on if a Double Barrel vs Hyphen leads to more problems? I like the idea of adding his name and retaining Maiden as Last name, but I'm not crazy about a hyphen. Is a Double Barrel just ultimately more confusing? Or easier as you can toggle back and forth between previous and new "identity" for anything non-legal?

        • Hi Alli. Primary difference is hyphenation can easily be done during the marriage name change process, while double barrel may require a court petition.

          As for possible confusion, unless your name is clearly partitioned on a form or the other person knows how it's sectioned, there's really no way of knowing which of the inner names belong to what—first, middle, or last. For instance, Jane Ava Marie Doe. Is Ava part of the first name or middle name? Is Marie part of the middle name or last? What happens if the middle name is omitted?

  36. Hi Valera,
    My husband and I have been married since 2009. On the marriage certificate, I changed my name to include his last name and made my maiden name as part of my middle name. However, I have not updated my driver's license, social security, etc. to my married name and kept using my full maiden name for everything (work, taxes and my children's birth certificate) since my husband was ok with it. Can I continue to use my maiden name even though it is different on the marriage certificate? Or do I eventually need to change and update everything to my married name? Thank you in advance.

    Sincerely,
    Antonette

    • Hi Antonette. You're not required to change your name just because you specified a new name on your marriage certificate.

  37. Hi while awaiting an appeal on my SSI decision I was divorced and then remarried and seperated before getting approved , I kept my SSI and all government issues (ss card ) in my previous married name , now I am concerned this may affect my benefits, I have been receiving for 1 year, please advise me as to what I should do.

    • Hi Angela. I don't see where you're facing a conflict, considering your name hasn't changed. Concerns regarding your SSI benefits can be directed to your local SSA office, in person or by telephone.

  38. Hi, I got married almost 8 months ago. I thought I changed my name. I went and even got a new social security card. But when I applied to get a debit card, I had to use my maiden name. Why is that? What steps did I miss?

    – Laura

    • Hi Laura. Why were you told you had to use your maiden name? Did your identification (e.g., state-issued ID card, driver's license) show your prior or new name?

      • I did it online and it just wouldnt go through. I got a prepaid card. I havent been able to update my state ID because I think I accidentally threw my birth certificate away. I live in NJ and was born in CA. I dont have enough money to get a copy of it.

          • Hi Laura. It appears that some or all of the credit bureaus have not updated their records to reflect your name change. When you change your name with the SSA, the information should automatically bubble up to the three credit bureaus, but it's not guaranteed. And it's not instantaneous. It can take several months, but eight months is a bit further than the typical length of time.

            It looks like you'll have to contact all three credit bureaus (TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian), and notify them of your new name. Do it in writing, provide your SS number, and include a copy of your marriage certificate.

  39. I recently got married at the courthouse. I haven't changed my name on my DL or through SSA yet. well I recently filled out applications for a job. I put my maiden name down since I have not changed anything thus far. I didn't know if the courthouse automatically does it (name change) or not. but anyways, the jobs I applied for ran a background check. one of them said the ss number does not match the name. the name that is showing up is my married name. So I am assuming the courthouse did the official name change?

    • Hi Desi. That's not how it's typically done. You're the one who has to initiate the name change, not a third-party.

  40. Hello. I need some help. I received Deferred Action and work permit on 2012. (Since I am married it was under my married last name). So work permit and ssc had married last name.

    I recently became a permanent resident. And all my documents are. Eing sent under maiden name because they are done to match mexican passport (even when one gets married the last name is not adopted in mexico). Anyhow I notified immigration services that I already had a workpermit when I submited application for immigrant visa/green card, and even at the time of interview I was asked for it.

    I was under the impresion that all my document would be aent under married last name since they know I am married and already had a social. (Just remove the reatrictions. Well NO. I get a new social in the mail with maiden name. UGH (can't they see their mistake here?). Anyhow what do I do now?

    • Hi Unice. The I-90 form can be submitted to USCIS to have your card reissued with your married name. Provide supporting documentation of your name change, such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

  41. Hello… I moved here to the U.S from Jamaica and I got married to a U.S citizen in 2005 I then received my employment authorization card in my married last name then when it expired I received my permanent resident card but USCIS put my maiden name on it then my social security card was sent in my married last name because of this I can't get an ID because they are saying I don't match up in their computer system even though I showed them the original copy of my marriage liscense…. I want to apply for citizenship but I am not sure if my different names will affect that process…. I have tried to get homeland security to fix their mistake but they claim that the mistake is on me and I refuse to pay money for something I did not mess up… Can I still file for citizenship without changing over my permanent resident card to my married name?

    • Hi Angie. How was the error yours? If you specified your married name and provided valid documentation to support that, yet it was still issued in the wrong name, then there's no cost to issue a correction and replacement. Otherwise, you'll have to pay the fee. It's important that the name on your permanent resident card be valid.

      • USCIS had it set for me to do my biometrics when I filed the form stating that the name issue was their fault then when I went back to get my new document they all of a sudden tried to say that I didn't fill out my name correctly and that it was my fault yet they managed to send my work permit in my married name and then turned around and sent me my permanent resident card in my maiden name… So I don't know I may have to pay that extra fee to fix their mistake!!!! Thanks for your help

  42. Hi I live in Miami fl and I got married in 2010 I have a son from previous relationship and he has my last name . So when I got married to not leave out my son I kept my maiden name and added my hubby name to mine so it's first name maiden name hubbys name. We had a child in 2011 and we thought the same let's not leave out my last name so my eldest didn't feel left out. Well what I wanted to ask how can I get rid of my maiden name for myself and my kids and would I be able to change my eldest son without the biological fathers consent . He was just recently added to his birth certificate

    • Hi Jennifer. You'd have to petition the court, and you would have to get written and notarized consent from the biological father.

  43. Please i am filling for a citizenship and i am adding my maiden name and middle name to a space provided asking if you want to change your name, i answered yes and provided how i want it. My husband's last name is two having a dash in between (like eg; JHONSON – SMITH ) I left out the Jhonson and added my maiden name ( like eg; George-Smith) , the George being my maiden name.
    my question is, do i still have to go through the court process and is this going to affect anything or delay the process. Am still married to my husband for ten years now and have my husbands last two maiden name on my SSC, DL and Permanent recident card

    • Hi Eve. If you've already changed it with the SSA, then you would have to petition the court the change it once again.

  44. Can someone please help clarify something for me?
    I'm a US citizen living in California. I went through a legal name change which was actually just an *addition* to my name (nothing was removed). Would it be a problem to leave my bank accounts with my old name, since my new name still has both parts in it?

    Thanks in advance.

    • Hi Sam. It's possible, depending on the bank. Even if you were to explain your situation to your bank (in person or anonymously), they would be inclined to accommodate a client—within reasonable limits.

  45. Hi I got married and have been changing my name over on all my docs like passport. Banks etc .The only one I haven't changed yet is my doctors. I recently found out I was pregnant and they still have me down in mymaiden name .I signed the pregnancy doc in my old name without thinking too. Now I'm worried they won't let me change it.And will cause complications further down the line. Ie hospitals and birth certificates. Also if I tell the I got married and moved they may tellme I need to register with a doctors there and I'm happy with where I am. Any suggestions xx

    • Hi Emma. Name changes with doctor offices are a common occurrence. I don't think you have anything to be worried about. If you'd prefer not to deal with it over the phone or in person, then postal mail them a form letter notifying them of your name change. State your prior and new name, and include a photocopy of your marriage certificate. That'll give them the minimum information necessary to update their records without divulging anything else about yourself.

  46. I have a few questions. My husband and i got married secretly a year and a half ago. I changed my name to first middle hislast. (For medical insurance purposes). No one knows we are married so I still go by first middle maiden for everything (bank account, drivers lisence, and at my current job). Is that ok? Also, I got a second job and am in the process of filling out the paper work. Can I still use my maiden name? Or do I have to go by his last name because that is what is on my ssc? I really need your help! Thank you!

    • Hi Meghan. You can technically get by with having only updated your SS for now, which you've proven. Eventually other documents, such as your driver's license, will need to fall in line. Especially when it's time to renew. The DMV database may query the SSA for a name match/mismatch. As for your job, you'll likely have to provide your full legal name for a background check and tax purposes.

  47. I am planning on getting married and would like to take his last name, however I have a professional license and busines and publications in my maiden name. I want to keep my maiden name for business purposes. How does this work? I am in California

    • Hi Aubree. Depending on your profession, you can contact your licensing board for clarification. On government docs/forms, taxes, you'll use your legal name. For other uses, professional and socially, use the name you prefer.

  48. I have been married for 15 years now,and I have kept my maiden name hyphen my husbands last name. I would like to know if I can just go back to my maiden now ( I have wanted to do it for the past 10 years) ? My drivers license and social security are both with my maiden and husbands.

    • Hi Anna. You can return to your maiden name. Although, you'll have to petition the court to do so.

  49. I got married in April and signed our marriage certificate with my Maiden name. Will that cause a problem when I change my name? Also can I just add my husband's last name but not always use it. For business I want to be know by my maiden name.

    • Hi Lauren. It's typically not an issue, but in some areas it could be met with some resistance. For instance, California. For business, you're free to maintain your maiden name as long as you continue to use your full name in legal contexts and tax purposes.

  50. hi, i got married in 2007 and never change my name anywhere ..now i file N400 to become a citizen.my question is am i going to have problems for no report to the ss or driver licence i got married.

    • Hi Mya. I don't see what problems may arise, considering you've opted not to change your name.

  51. Hi,

    I combined my middle name and maiden name because I didn't want to lose either or. So technically on my ss card it says for example First Middle Maiden Last. Now when I change my drivers license would I be able to just put First Middle Last or would I need to include all four names? I believe my mother was able to omit her maiden from her Middle Maiden when she got a new DL back in the day. This would be in the state of MD.

    • Hi Kat. Probably not, but it can vary from office to office, and even clerk to clerk. You would just have to go in office and make your request. If you're turned down, you can ask to speak with a supervisor and/or be provided documentation that raises an objection to your request.

  52. Hello, Valera.
    I got married in May of last year. My husband and it are broken up, but we haven't filed for divorce or separation yet. My old ID has my married name on it, but my birth certificate and social securitu card have my maiden name. I need to apply for a new ID. Can I apply for a brand new one using the required paperwork that has my maiden name on it?

    • Hi Ash. If the ID you're referring to is your driver's license, it's interesting that you were able to update it without updating your SS. It's not an entirely uncommon thing, but the DL often follows and must be in sync with the SS. Now, if your legal name is your maiden, there's a mismatch. The question is will the driver's license office be able or willing to amend it to match your maiden name without requiring a court order. Was this an invalid modification that can be reversed? It would make sense to contact one or more locations to inquire about their available procedures to update your license.

  53. I am getting married in 10 days and would like to keep my last name, but am concerned about the inconvenience having two last names will pose once we have children, combine bank accounts, etc. Is there a way to create a legal alias so that I can legally go by his last name or mine?

    • Hi SunLover. There's a DBA for business purposes. You can also request the use of an alias (e.g., job, school) on an informal basis. You can opt to use the name you prefer socially/informally, while maintaining its full use for legal contexts.

  54. Hi ok question is I legally changed my last name 8 years ago. But wasn't threw a marriage . Ok now I want toget married but want to use my maiden name. How do I go about this?

    • Hi April. If you want your maiden name to return to being your last name, you can petition the court for the change. If you're looking for some other configuration, please reply back with additional details.

    • I think you should look at the rules of the state and county in which you plan to marry. You may be able to make the name change without petitioning the court. I married in Hawaii, and the forms and marriage license agent said that either spouse could declare their middle and last names to be any middle or last name ever used by either partner or any combination of any of the middle or last names used by either partner at any point.

      It sounds like taking back your maiden name would meet those requirements. I think it's worth checking to see if the requirements in your area are similar.

      Good luck!

  55. We got married in February. I mailed in the documents to change my name and received my SS card with his last name about a month ago. He knew that I wanted to take his last name since I hated my last name. But now hes adamant that I change it back, that I cant have his last name, his parents (who were married in Puerto Rico, where they keep their names) didnt do it like that so he wants to do it like them, etc. He doesnt care the least that here we take the husbands last name (hes lived here half his life, not like hes new to this) and refuses to let me keep his last name. How am I suppose to change it back? :'(

    • Hi Stephanie. You'll have to go and petition the court to have any aspect of your name changed again.

  56. My girlfriend has been separated from her ex for 24 years , but not divorced, she never used his last name for anything she used hers , he told the other day that he finally got one , now he calls her today saying hes gonna get her in trouble by the federal government for using her maiden name at public aid in 1998 , he told her he had paperwork from public aid , my question is,how can he get her in trouble and how in the hell can he get paperwork from public aid with her name on it , please help…

    • Hi Danny. If her legal name is her maiden name, and it's all she's ever used, I don't understand what the ex is going on about. It doesn't make sense.

  57. Where do you do a name change I want to add my maiden name to my married name how n what do I do

    • Hi Shannon. First SS office, then driver's license office, passport, and non-government organizations (in-person or by mail).

  58. Hello, I was married over a year ago in California, and at the time I chose not to change my last name (to my spouse's). I've now decided that I would like to take my spouses last name. Can I still change my last name even though my marriage license doesn't indicate that I wanted to change my last name?
    Thank you.

    • Hi Tracy. If an institution, such as the DMV, does not accept a certified copy of your marriage certificate, then changing your name via court petition may be the route you'll have to take.

  59. I am Active Duty military and I have been in for 12 years. I'm having a really hard time with the idea of changing my name professionally to match my husband's, however, socially I already go by his last name and love the idea of having his last name.

    My question is, is it possible to just change my DL to my husband's last name and then just use my maiden name for taxes, pay checks, and the military?

    Or is that going to get too confusing?

    • Hi Tana. It's possible, but unlikely that you'll be able to change your DL without updating your SS first. Some driver's license office will query the SSA database for a name match before processing an update and reissue.

  60. Dear Sir,
    I married for 17 years. Now I want to change my last name to my husband's last name. What will be my first step? The way of Maiden Name to Middle Name, do I need to change it to all my documents such as properties title, insurance, bank accounts, beneficiary, retirement accounts, etc.?
    Would it be better if hyphenating my Last Name?
    Does your price include everything I need to notify them my last name is changed?
    Thanks.

    • Hi Eva. When updating your name, the typical starting point is the SS office, then driver's license. Then continue with various institutions one-by-one. Some will take time. Some you may not recall to do until later, so it may be an ongoing process of you updating documents to reflect your updated name. Whether you go with maiden to middle or hyphenate is ultimately your choice. There's no better or worse option.

  61. I got married in 2004 shortly after that I went to change my last name on my DL and ID. I even changed it at work even though I never changed my ss card. After having problems with school i decided to change my id back to my maiden name. I had no problems with that but now I want to go change everything to my married name so my question is: Am I going to have problems with SS since I changed my name before but never my SS card?

    • Hi Daisy. You'll be fine. They'll need a supporting document, such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate, to process your name change.

  62. Hi
    I've been re- married for nearly 4 yrs. I have my driving license in the name of my surname of my first husband. The problem I have is it never bothered my now husband until he went to put me on his car insurance and he was told that I could go on his insurance, but I have to change my licence to his surname. I have not taken his name on hence the reason why I still use my first husbands surname on all my documents even at place of work. How can I get insured on my new husbands car insurance without changing my name to his?

    Many Thanks

    • Hi Suzanne. Was it made clear to the insurance company that your legal name is that of your first husband? That your SS card and driver's license are in this name? It seems as though there's a misinterpretation somewhere of what your name is. You'll also want to confirm if the application is being filed correctly.

  63. hello I was wondering if it's possible to use both my maiden name and my married name. Basically I would like to use my maiden name professionally, I just graduated med school and use my married name socially.

  64. Hi there,
    I recently got married and I am a green card holder. Now I am applying for a graduate school, and I don't know whether to go with my old name, which is still on my SS, or put my new name which is my green card. Just so you know, I kept my last name but I also added my husbands last name when I got married.

    Thank you

    • Hi Sara. It's a good idea to sync up your documentation to reflect your legal name so that such inconsistencies won't trouble. You can visit or contact your local SS office about updating your name record.

  65. Hi! im about to get married this July in CA. It's a rule that one has to change their last name, I agreed to that, but I don't plan of changing my last name to my spouse's last name yet in my passports, credit cards, DL etc. for years maybe. will that be fine? will I indicate in my application form for a job that I'm married by then? thanks!

    • Hi Crystaline. Name change is optional. You can choose to do it later or not at all. You're fine either way. If you choose not to, your current name will remain your last name. I don't see the connection between saying (or not saying) you're married on a form and your name concerns. They're not really interconnected.

  66. I was married about 3 weeks ago and would like to keep my maiden name professionally but change it for all non-professional. Is it possible to keep my maiden name yet change to my husband's last name without hyphenating? Basically is it possibly to be legally known as two names? I would prefer on record to be known as both.

    • Hi Tamara. You can go forth with the professional/nonprofessional use of your preferred names, but you will still have one legal name. Ways to navigate through it can include the registering of a DBA in your professional name, use of an alias, or simply continue your maiden name in your professionally life (as you have been doing), while making sure legal references to your name is what you'll change it to.

  67. Hi,
    I got married last year and legally changed my name but never went through with changing it on my ID or SSN since I'm a permanent resident and was waiting to become a citizen to change it in all my paperwork…I am currently going thru a divorce and want to keep my married name for personal reasons, can I keep it even if my ex disagrees and does not wants me to keep it. Btw I hyphen his and my last name. Thanks

    • can I keep it even if my ex disagrees and does not wants me to keep it.

      Yes, you can keep it. You're the only one who has say-so over what your name will be.

  68. I changed my name back to my maiden name by deed poll two year ago now my ex is divorcing me but using my old married name
    Is this legal ??

  69. Hello, I am getting married for the second time in Vegas in 15 days. I still carry my previous married name. My drivers license states my name as dana (maiden name )(previous married name). I would like to drop my previous married name. Once I remarry can my name read dana (maiden name)(new married name). Or will I have to have dana (maiden name)(previous married name)(new married name) because I never went back to my maiden name after my divorce?

  70. Good morning,

    My fiance and I will be getting married next month. We are applying for our marriage license in two weeks. I don't want to change my maiden name. I would like to hyphenate it with my future husband's name. Do I have to change any important documents such as Social Security, Drivers License, Bank, etc. with the hyphenated name or can I just keep all of that with my maiden name. I just don't want to go through so much paperwork in changing everything. Also, would it affect my taxes if file separate or jointly?

    Thanks. :)

    • Hi Delila. If you don't update any of your identity documents, then your name wouldn't have changed. You'd go on using your maiden name. You would avoid the paperwork, as there wouldn't be anything to process. And, no, your name change (or non change) wouldn't impact how you decide to file your taxes File whichever is appropriate, then use your current legal name.

  71. Hello! I am currently trying to figure out what I need to do when my fiance and I get married. I am a Canadian citizen, with a green card, living in the US planning on marrying a US citizen, in the US. I would like to assume his last name. Do I need to immediately change my last name on my documents (Canadian Passport, Green Card, Drivers licence ect.) or will those documents with my maiden name be accepted until they expire even if I assume my husbands last name?

    • Hi Samantha. Your maiden name will still be recognized until you decide to formally change your name.

  72. Hello. I recently got married but didn't go through a formal name change. I only used my marriage certificate to change my name at the bank and insurance policy. I also applied for my change of status with USCIS using my husbands last name, but on second thoughts I would like for my SS card, DL, passport etc to bear my maiden name only. While other documents involving me and my husband can still be in his name. Is that possible? Considering I have sent in my immigration application in my husbands last name? Thank you.

    • Hi Amaka. You can contact the USCIS about resubmitting your application, so that you may implement your proposed changes.

  73. Hi,

    I got married at the clerk county on 5/1, when i signed for the marriage license the clerk county lady asked me what name I want to keep. I told her I don't wanna change my name then she said, if you don't write it down here and wish to change in the future you would have to go to the court and pay $5000 it's a very big hassle however, if you write it down here you have the OPTION to change any time in the future but are NOT obligated to. This was her explanation so I followed her advice and wrote down ( first name ) ( maiden name ) ( husband's last name ) then the marriage certificate said " new name " i handed this in to my immigration lawyer because I am applying for a greencard ( my husband is getting it through work and I currently have a work visa ) then the paralegal told me since I changed my name I have to change everything ( SSN, DL, Passport ) but i have many friends who applied with their maiden name and got the GC so I know she is wrong. However, my concerns is the GC will be issued with my new name which I was not willing to change yet.

    Obviously the clerk county lady was wrong, now I am force to change my legal name. It's hasn't even been a month, is there any way I can go back to my maiden name? or do i still have to go to court to do so. I live in California.

    Thank you!

    • Hi May. Is the paralegal basing this on your certificate or the assumption that you've changed your SS (or intend to)?

  74. Hi my name is Angela, and i was wondering if you could help me, I got married back in 1993 and me and my husband separated about 6 months later, I changed to my married name on my ss, but not on my DL and birth certificate, I basically just went back to my maiden, how can I get my ss changed back to my maiden name, will i get in trouble for just going back to my maiden name , since we've been separated for 22 years?

    • Hi Angela. You'd be looking at having to get a court approved name change. That will provide you what you need to update your name with the SS office.

  75. I am getting married in 2 days. When we filed for our marriage license., I vhanged my name. However, I am wanting to keep my maiden name on everything. Am I going to have issues legally for anything, with my marriage license saying one (being changed with vital records) but not changing it on anything else? I asked the judge that is marrying us, he replied with "it may be fine for a while, but down the road, you may run into issues because you changed your name with vital records."

    • Hi Becky. Name change is optional. There are no negative consequences if you choose to not change your name after all.

      • Even filing taxes, credit cards, purchases made together? If they ask and we say married but my last name is different. Proof of marriage would be the certificate but it says a new last name.? Thank you!

        • Hi Becky. Yes, you're fine. If you're keeping your maiden name, then the marriage certificate wouldn't come into play.

  76. Hi Valera,

    I got married 6 months ago and put my husband's last name as my new last name on the marriage license and dropped my maiden name. However I have yet to change my name on any legal documents. Is it possible to keep my maiden name or at least hyphenating it without changing the marriage license?

    Thanks!

  77. I got married in 2014 in Michigan. After three months, the marriage came to an abrpt end for several reasons.

    My question is: I signed my married name, but never changed any of my documents. Now that I need to file for divorce, how does that affect everything? Do I need to get my name actually changed over to the married name? Do I go to courthouse and get name change? I want to file very soon, and am not going through a lawyer.

    Sorry this is alot. I still use maiden name for EVERYTHING. i dont know if i file for divorce under my maiden name or if i have to go through whole process of changing name to married name, even if its only for 60 days?
    HELP!!

    • Hi Amber. You don't have to undergo any name change. Since you never changed your name on any documents, your legal name is still your maiden name. Therefore, you'll use your maiden name for everything.

      • So if I signed my married name on the marriage license, do i file for divorce with maiden name? Just wonder how that will be handled. Instead of Amber W, its signed Amber S. S is married initial. So i file as Amber W? Just trying to get this figured out!

        • Hi Amber. Disregarding the marriage license. Sign with your maiden name, as that's still your current name.

  78. Hi Valera,
    Thanks for providing this information. I'm interested in changing my last name to my husband's after our marriage. However, I would like to keep using my maiden name professionally. In particular, when I publish research, I would like to keep using my name exactly as is [First name-Middle initial-Maiden last name]. Do you think anyone would have a problem with that, even if my last name is legally changed? Also, what about when going to conferences or something like that–do you think I could register with my maiden name instead of my legal last name? Although keeping my first and middle name as is would be my first choice, I'd also be willing to change my current last name to be my middle name if that would make any of these outcomes easier. I would also consider keeping my current middle name as part of a new combined middle name (resulting in: First(original first name) Middle (original middle name followed by a space and my original last name) Last (husband's last name), but do you think that just makes people confused and causes more problems having so many names? Thanks for any input you can provide.
    Best,
    Stefanie

    • Do you think anyone would have a problem with that, even if my last name is legally changed?

      Also, what about when going to conferences or something like that–do you think I could register with my maiden name instead of my legal last name?

      That's a common approach, and shouldn't present a problem.

      I'd also be willing to change my current last name to be my middle name if that would make any of these outcomes easier.

      I don't see it as an easier or more complicated choice. I think it makes the most sense to implement the approach you prefer most and make that work rather than contort another scenario to fit what you assume might be better.

      I would also consider keeping my current middle name as part of a new combined middle name

      Depending on the state, that may not be possible without getting a court order.

      but do you think that just makes people confused and causes more problems having so many names?

      I don't believe, over the long term, whatever you choose will be confusing or difficult for others to grasp and remember. Eventually, you and others will get used to whichever name you choose. Of course, there can be the occasional correction to be made, but I believe it's best for you to choose the name you and only you consider to fit best for your personal and professional use, and push to make that work.

  79. Hi, I have a question. I've been married for 2 years now and have changed my maiden name. Don't really like that choice of mine and I'm actually regretting it. I'm planning to apply for grad school. My question is: Can I apply for school with my maiden name although I have my married name on Social and IDs and stuff? I'd greatly appreciate it if you give me an advice! Thanks.

    • Hi Kate. Applications typically require your legal name, in order to perform various look-ups.

  80. Hi, I got my SSN in my maiden name and haven't able to change when I got married. Now I'm divorced. Do I need to change my last name to married name first then change back to my maiden name?

    • Hi Mira. If you're asking if you need to change from maiden to married and back to maiden (to fulfill some sort of requirement), then no. You'll just wind up back where you started, and doing nothing results in the same thing—your name remaining static.

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