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.
I just got divorced and had the name change in the divorce decree. We are selling two houses that are in my married name. I haven't changed my name on any documentation yet. Can I sign the closing documents in my married name?
Yes, as that's still your current name.
If i get married i can just keep my name as it us now without doing anything extra? And what will happen when we file our taxes as married filing jointly and our last names are not the same?
Hi Kathy. Yes, if you do nothing your name will not change. Name changes aren't automatic. They have to be proactively initiated. As for your taxes, nothing good nor bad will happen. You'll just file using your distinct names.
Hi. I got married over 10 years ago and I signed my maiden name on the marriage license not knowing that I had to sign my new name. Can I still use my marriage license to change my last name to my husband's last name or do I need to go through the entire name change process? I would like to keep my maiden name and hyphenate his last name.
Hi Alexis. Yes, you can change it still. Order a certified copy of your marriage certificate from your local vital records office.
How do you hyphenate the last name when I signed my certificate with my maiden name? I was misinformed in the office when I signed it
Hi Stacey. It may still be usable. Some states may want the new name on the certificate, while others do no require it.
i live in Massachusetts and am separated from my husband. I want to go back to my maiden name. Can I change my name on my own?
Hi Bonnie. Yes, you can change it on your own. It would require petitioning the court to have your name changed.
Hi, When I got married I added my husband's last name (no hyphen), but as yet have only changed my name with the SS office. I have always used just my maiden name professionally and I am now starting a business. I want to continue using my maiden name with my business. To do that, do I need to file a DBA or will it be fine because the bank acct I opened for the business is just under my maiden (they go by DL which I did not change to add hubby's name)? The DBA sounds like a huge pain because it has to be advertised in the paper for a month or something and I would rather not have an extra step to complete. So, clients will write checks just to maiden name, bank is in maiden name, SSN is maidenname husbandname. I just don't want a problem when it comes to tax time. I'm in CA. Thanks!
If and when you eventually renew your license, the DMV may query the SSA database and notice your name change there. Your license will be renewed in your married name. Your tax and SSA name must also match, so you'll file using your legal name.
Using a DBA is can be a good long-term approach to prevent disruption on the business side of things while making sure your name records are synchronized across your various identity documents (e.g., SS, driver's license).
Thank you, I will go that route then. I don't want any issues down the road. A follow-up question if you don't mind… I have found the whole having two last names thing to be a huge hassle. It takes forever for doctors to find me, I can never remember which name I used where. Despite trying to engage my feminist side, I think I now just want to add my Maiden name to my middle name and use my husbands last name. How can I do this, now without the marriage license to document the name change? Thanks so much for the help. It was great to come across your blog!
Hi Jen. Since you've already changed your name with the SSA, changing it again would entail a new name change event and authorizing document, which would be a court order. So, you'd be looking at petitioning the court to acquire a different name sequence.
I have been married almost five years,I took my husbands last name.But now I would like to take my maiden name back,even though we're married. Is that possible through naturalization process? if yes, do I have to pay after it for changing all my documents like (home, tax, DMV etc)
Hi Shania. You can change your name during naturalization. You can get in touch with USCIS regarding potential fees. Fees for changing your name on other documents (e.g., tax, DMV) is something determined by each agency. Unlikely for home or tax related documents. DMV may possibly charge a reissue fee.
I'm currently 9 months pregnant and married the baby's father last month. I haven't changed any documents yet but would like all of our last names to match on the birth certificate. Will this be a problem? Can I use my husbands last name as mine even if it's not legally changed before baby arrives?
Yes, you can. Your name change is performed on a separate track.
hello..Im Mellanie can I ask about my status I apply my sss using my married name Mellanie Muleta but now Im widow, then I change my married name into my single name Mellanie Semilla so now it is possible to change again my family name using my married name? because my company used my married name for the payment of my sss so I have no record using my married name but I used the same sss number, so what shall I do to change it again using my married name ? thanks
Hi Mellanie. What name are you trying to return to? If you're looking to go from your married name to another last name, then you can petition the court to do so. You may also want to contact your local SSA about this to inquire about your name and how your company has implemented your name.
Hello, I recently got married for the second time. I have a daughter from my previous marriage and her last name is hyphenated with his and mine … first, middle, his last-my last. I also never changed back to my maiden name after divorcing.
I am wanting to keep my maiden name, plus my new husbands name, so my daughter and I can still share a last name. However my daughter has a hard time just going by her dad's last name since it is hyphenated…I have learned from this, and am wanting to know the best way to go about changing my name for myself.
Should I do first, middle maiden(together, no hyphen), then his last?
Or first, middle, maiden his last.
I am looking for whatever will make it easiest to just go by his last as my official last name (drivers license, etc as my maiden name is long and hard to pronounce.
I am located in Texas. Thanks!
A dual middle name would probably require petitioning the court. If that's acceptable and you prefer that combination, then there's certainly nothing wrong with that sequence.
This combination also makes sense, although the official name that will go on your SS and driver's license would still be both last names—your full legal name.
I just got a divorce in Illinois and I was granted to go back to my maiden name how long am I allowed to wait to change it on social security and everything else
Hi Karry. There's no time limit. You can change it back whenever you're ready.
Hi!
I have a question. So, I got married in October this past year and I agreed to my husband to add his last name onto my last name (no hyphen (he hates those), but just having two last names). I haven't done this process yet, but really I don't want to have to change any documents. Like, I want to keep my maiden name on my SSC, driver's license, passport, credit cards, etc. Is this something that can even be done? I was just hoping there was some way I could file the information and say "well, I also go by this name, but my legal name is my 'maiden name'" sort of thing. Is this a real thing? I live in Washington. Not sure if that matters or not, but I thought I would throw it in. Thanks so much!
Hi Brea. Sure, you can choose to go by your dual last name informally. When it comes to filling out governmental forms, legalese, taxes, and so on, you'll have to use your maiden name.
Hi, I recently got married married and would lime to keep my children from A pprevious marriage as my beneficiaries on my old life insurance policy. Do I have to change my name on the policy?
Hi Joann. Unless you have a valid reason not to, it's generally good practice to make such organizations aware of your new legal name for their records.
I have been divorced since 2006. My social, license, birth certificate and passport all have my maiden name. Do I have to do a name change from surname to maiden since I never used the surname?
Hi Holly. It appears you've never changed any of your documents, therefore your maiden name has always remained your legal name. If that's the case, I don't see what it is you'll need to change.
We were married on a cruse ship, so our marriage certificate is filed in a different country. Do I have to notify Social Security?
Not unless you're changing your name.
I got married back in 2009 & divorced in 2012..when we went to court I got my maiden name back but never changed it on my ssc..I am with someone new and we are talking about getting married this summer so does this mean I have to go back to my maiden name before changing it to his? & does this cost anything?
Hi Kylie. No, you do not have to return to your maiden name before changing it to your new husband's.
I got married hastily and my new husband rushed me to change my last name on my CDL (I live in California) as well as my SS. Now, we are separating (not legally yet, and I don't know how it will end up) and I want to use my previous married name (which I had for over 27 years). Do I have to do a legal name change? If so, how do I do that if there's no divorce document? Will that mess me up at all since we bought a house together that has my new married name on it?
You can seek a court petitioned name change.
No, that's shouldn't be an issue.
My Birth certificate name says Anita Lilos. My social security card, drivers license, passport, credit cards, marriage license say Anna Lilos. When I got married I thought it would be the best time to go back to using my birth certficate name and use my new married last name so now 'Anita Anna Megos'. I have been able to change my name with the social security card, drivers license, bank accounts. Unfortunately credit card companies are asking for a court order for my first name change. I dont have one because i'm using my first name that was given by birth. Should i close my old credit cards an open new cards in my new name instead of trying to change my first name?
Hi Anitas. Did you tell them your name change was a result of marriage? If so, did you also offer to supply a copy of your marriage certificate as proof of marriage?
I am getting married in a few months in MN and I would like to change my legal name to MyFirst MyMiddle HisLast. However, I would like to keep my professional name as MyFirst MyMiddle Maiden Name. I will be licensed in my profession next year. Because I have my bachelor and master degrees under my maiden name, can I keep it as my professional name?
Hi Michaela. You would have to contact your state's licensing board. Some states require legal name changes to be reported within X-number of days following a name change.
I got married in California last year (where we still live), and I took my husband's name on the marriage certificate and duly updated it with the authorities. I really regret it now—the name just doesn't right to me—and I want to revert to my maiden name, though we're still married.
Is this possible to do at all without paying $500 for a name change through the court? Thanks!
Hi Joseph. Unfortunately, you would have to go through the court (fees and all) to complete a follow-up name change.
I been married for 15 years and I never changed my last name but we bought a house and I had to sign the deed with my married name the thing is that I don't have any I'd with my married name can I get just an I'd with my husbands last name instead of changing it in all the papers ?
If it's to be a validly recognized ID, that's unlikely. If you need to provide verification of your marriage, you can acquire a certified copy of your marriage certificate. You can inquire with whatever entity requires identity verification if such a document would be sufficient.
I am a student in FL. we have a question regarding a fellow student. She has been using (presenting) two different drivers licenses, one with her maiden name and another with her new married name. She has real estate properties in her old maiden name and is using her old license to have related docs.(including affidavits of domicile) notarized, and using her new married one (with new married name) to have new mortgage documents notarized. We do not believe that she has citizenship or SS#. Is this possible, to maintain two drivers licenses and to submit either one as valid identity?
Hi Cindy. It's up to the various institutions to determine if they'll accept it (assuming they're aware of it). It could certainly be problematic if the intention is to commit fraud. Based upon your description, that doesn't appear to be the case. It seems she's just using the old driver's license as a way to verify her identity (or matching name) on old paperwork.
Good Day Valera!
I changed my last name to my husband's in 2013. This year I am launching a new business venture and would like to use my maiden name on business cards and when I introduce myself to clients.
Do I need to legally add my maiden name to my current last name or could I continue to use my maiden name professionally?
Thank you!
Stacy
Yes, you can just use your maiden name professionally.
I am getting married in july. all my documents are still in process (including immigration) if i use my future husband's last name (immigration status also in process) do i need to update everything. Or i can change some, like bank accounts. and keep my maiden name in ssn ? is it going to be a problem later on? or just keep my maiden name and do not declare married
?
Yes, if you opt to legally change your name, then it's important for your documents to be updated and in sync.
If you're planning to keep your maiden name with your SSN, then the status quo would remain.
You can declare being married while keeping your maiden name.
I know after divorce, an ex-spouse can not force someone to using/not using a legally established name. My current husband's ex-wife is still using his last name. Legally, she never had her name changed when they were married. She had a business that she used her maiden name for, some documents she had used my husbands last name, but her legal name on tax returns and SS card is actually her first ex-husband. We read over the final divorce decree but there is no mention of any name use. Since she never legally changed her name to his, can she continue to use it?
Hi Nat. Yes, she can continue using it as long as it's done in the proper context and there's no attempt to commit fraud or evade debts.
Hi. I married my husband last June and I hyphenated my maiden name with his last name on the marriage certificate but haven't changed my name on SSC or DL. I'm starting to feel like I just want my husband's last name as my new last name and maybe have my maiden name as my middle name. On my SSC do I have to have the hyphenated name that is on the marriage certificate or can I just use my husband's last name?
Hi Forida. You can just use your husband's last name.
We live in Hawaii and we got married in December 2014. On our marriage certificate we used a hyphenated last name. We have done nothing to change our names since the marriage and we have now reconsidered using this hyphenated last name. Can we still keep all our ID they way they are? We were hoping to fix the marriage certificate, but they said they can't do that. However, they are saying we have to change all our ID's to match our marriage certificate because that was a legal name change, is this correct? Also they want us to fill out a name change form to change it back, but I'm not sure what are they talking about because we haven't changed anything.
Thanks
Ethan
Hi Ethan. I'm not sure what they're referring to. Name change is optional. Some folks change their minds, which result in their names and identification remaining unmodified.
I was married almost 11 years ago and here is how I handled the name change:
I kept my maiden name and added my husband's name to it, no hyphen, just like Julia, the OP, so my name is Nancy X. Y Z, not Nancy X. Y-Z
Since your legal name is only required on legal documents, that is how I use it: taxes, driver's license, passport. Credit cards, bank accounts, medical records, etc., are just with my husband's name, since those are not considered legal documents.
I do use both names on facebook, as it makes finding me easier for friends and families, but that's it.
I have never had a problem doing this.
I have been married for almost 7 years. I hyphenated my name given surname to his surname on our marriage license. On my SS card, my voter registration card, my bank cards, my passport, etc. I put my first and middle names and then both last names without the hyphen. My name is hyphenated on my drivers' license because my state (NM) requires hyphenation for dual surnames.
I want to go by both surnames. I use the dual surnames on all documents and when introducing myself to others, however, most people seem too confused to handle it and call me Ms. HisLastName or FirstName HisLastName. This irritates me to no end. Especially because I have never in the years we've been married filled out any paperwork or introduced myself to anyone using just his last name. It's funny because when we went on vacation overseas there were no issues with my dual surnames. I have asked family and close friends to use either my given surname or both surnames but they either don't or tease me about it, which hurts me a lot.
If they have to pick one last name, I'd rather be addressed by my given last name. I don't want to divorce my husband, he's wonderful and I want to be married to him. I've thought about changing everything back to my given surname, or taking out the space between surnames and making it MyGivenSurnameHisSurname (e.g. Anna SmithJones) but I'm unsure how much hassle it will be. Do you have any advice for me?
Hi EGrrl. It's understandably annoying having to correct people to properly recognize your full last name. There's no easy way to reinforce this. You'll have to continue doing what you have been by clarifying when necessary. If you do ultimately choose to go forward with modifying your last name, you will have to petition the court to get it done. I wouldn't consider it a hassle. It's just another process to get you from A to B. It'll take a little bit of time, but it's a common process that many people go through for a variety of reasons.
Hi,
I was married June 2014. I changed my maiden name to my married name shortly after. However, my passport still has my maiden name on it, mainly because I haven't traveled outside of the country since my honeymoon. My passport book is almost full. Can I still use it until it is full even though the rest of my documents and SS card all have my married name?
Also, my old checks and my husbands old checks each have our respective names on them. Now that we have combined bank accounts and we are each on each other's bank accounts, can I sign my name to his checks and he sign his to mine?
Thanks!
Yes. You can review the maiden name on passport article, which elaborates on this.
Yes, since they're joint accounts.
My fiancee is previously divorced and kept her married name. We are getting married next year and she will be changing her last name to mine…but she wishes to replace her middle name with her MAIDEN name (which she no longer has). Because it was her birth name and is on her birth certificates, would this be an issue without a court order? From what I've read online, she needs to put the name she will go by on our marriage license. Can she simple move her maiden name to the middle? Example: Born Danielle Barbara Black. Married in 2004: Changed name to Danielle Barbara Locke. Divorced in 2011: Kept same name. Married in 2015: Changed name to Danielle Black Williams. Possible without a court? Thanks in advance.
Possibly, depending on the state. Have a look at the maiden to middle name guide, which elaborates on this further.
I have a question about being employed under my maiden name. I changed my last name to my husband's but want to keep using only my maiden name for my professional life. I'm a grad student and instructor at a university right now, and don't want to change my last name with the university because they will change my name on directories, listings of classes I teach, change my email, the name on my degree, etc. My bank is ok with my maiden name being on my payroll paperwork so there's no real reason to let the university know I changed my name except for my W2 forms. How big of a problem is it if my maiden name (rather than my legal, married name) is on my tax forms, or is there a way I can just have my married name on my W2?
Your legal married name would have to be on your tax forms and W2. Explain your situation to the university and it's probable they'll be able to accommodate your name preference. Perhaps by use of an alias? Make it clear that you'll only want private, internal reference to your married name for tax filing purposes.
Valera,
I just would like to know, what i should to do, if I use my maiden name for 10 years, but my SSN card 10 years has my married name. How can I change the SSN card, if I never had a legal name change document?
Hi Nataly. They'll need a recognized document (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order) in order to process a name change request.
Thank You, Valera
Is it should be Court or Immigration Court? I am not yet a US citizent.
Hi Nataly. Regular court.
I am getting married in June and am wondering if I can have 2 last names without hyphenating, so that my name would be First Middle Maiden Married. And if I do that, am I able to sign legal documents using either last name? Or does it have to be both? In other words, if I have 2 last names, do I have to legally change any documents other than my DL and my SSN? I was also told that there are sometimes passport issues if you have 2 last names, so would I have to change that as well? I'm in Texas.
Possibly. You can contact your county clerk office for verification.
You'll have to sign your full name.
Basically, change everything as you would had you chosen a single surname.
My license show my married name, and my ss card shows my maiden-married name. Do i have to change my license with maiden name hyphyphenated married name?
Yes, they should match.
Hi I just got married in the states and I am appling for my visa as my husband lives there however I live in Hungary.Can I use my current passport with my maiden name to get my visa as the process is so complicated and I have to register my marrige in Hungary first before I can change my name and it takes months however I have to apply for my visa to the U.S. now.Can I use my maiden name to get the visa or do I have to change my surname before I can do anything?thanks
Hi Ildiko. You can get in touch with the U.S. Embassy/Consulate for guidance with this.
Hello, Valera.
I got married in 2005, have changed my last name to a married name.
I divorced in 10 months. The Divorce Certificate says, I have to keep my married name.
But after 2 years I changed my driver's license on my maiden name ( because I applied for a Green Card with my Current Foreign Passport, that are on my maiden name; USCIS gave me a proof to get a driver's license) , and still use it now.
In 2010 I have married again, but have left my maiden name.
I tried to change my SSN card ( which has a married name), and provided a green card, but they want a legal name change document.
How can I start a process to change a SSN?
Hi Nataly. Are you trying to change your name with the SSN to your maiden name or to a new married name.
Valera, to my maidan name.
Hi Nataly. Since 1) your divorce decree did not have an instruction to restore your maiden name, and 2) your last name with SSA records is still based on your prior marriage, you'll have to petition the court to restore your maiden name.
I first hyphenated my name after marriage, then due to it being cumbersome, changed to just my husband's surname dropping my maiden one. I changed all legal documents over the decades to reflect that. After being widowed, is it possible to go back to my maiden name without a court order? Would I have to change all records (house deed, passport, social security etc. etc.) to reflect that change? And would that require a legal order? Or could some things remain in my married name and I could just use my maiden name for social purposes without getting into trouble?
No, you would have to go the court order route.
Yes.
The granted court order document would be the "legal order" allowing you to make such changes.
Yes, that is an option.
Hello
I have to renew my Alien card is under my maiden name I am married 31 years and my Alien card and passport still under my maiden name, as per law we have to renew the Alien card, I do not want to change my maiden name but my SS I and driver license is under my married name I changed in order to file the taxes as couple married. Can I keep my maiden name in my renewal Alien Card ?
Please advice
Hi Ruth. If you've legally changed your name, they'll want to be notified about this upon renewal. The application will ask this. You contact an agent to inquire if you can maintain the use of your maiden name, but it's unlikely to be approved.
Hi,
I currently live in Virginia but will be moving to Texas next month. I changed my name two years ago after getting married to First Middle and His Last Name. I am now wanting to add my Maiden name so that it will say First Middle Maiden Last Name. Will Virginia allow me to add my maiden name back? Once I get the court order, I should be able to move to Texas to change my SSN and DL with no problems, right? And since all my credit cards, checking accounts, etc. have my current First Middle and Last Name, I shouldn't have to change them since my middle will still be in my new name, correct? I will just need to change my SS, DL, and Passport to match my legal name, correct? Just wanting to make sure I have this figured out.
Will you be adding it to your middle or last name?
Yes, with a court order.
Yes.
It goes back to my original question of whether the maiden name will be part of the middle or last name. If it's the latter, you should change it. It's a good idea to have such accounts synced with your full name, even though you can get by without updating them.
Yes, those are the most significant.
Hi
I am in an odd trouble. I am married for 10 years and after my marriage, my passport was made. A little bit forcefully I was bound to sign to my new surname. I wanted to keep my maidens name for all my documents are in my maidens name. I went to US and stayed for 7years with my new surname. But after coming back to my country India, I had my 2nd baby and there in the hospital I used my maidens name. I have bank account in my maiden name too. As not so sure about the process, my name in my baby's birth certificate and passport(as a minor) has been my maidens name. But my passport has my nusbands last name.
I definitely want to change my passport name to my maidens name (i m a family person and not a divorcee) but I also do not want any complication if I need to travel anywhere.
My question is, what will be the easiest process for coming out of this situation if I need to travel hassle free without any arising of awkward question.
I will be very much thankfull for quick and correct information.
Hi Mita. Can you clarify which country passport are you looking to change — US or India?
Hello – My new SS card has my FirstName MiddleName MarriedName, but my new DL was issued with my FirstName MaidenName MarriedName. Will this be a problem or should those 2 documents match exactly?
They should match. Which document is incorrect?
The DL was incorrect. I ended up going back to DMV and having it corrected to match my SS card. What a pain!
Hi Valera,
I just recently noticed that my green card expired a few years back (2011 to be exact). I've been at my current job for over 7 years now and never thought to check the expiration date on it since I never really need/use it. Anyways, I'm ready to renew it now and was wondering if I could add my maiden name as my middle name without having to check the box that asks "Has your name legally changed since the issuance of your Permanent Resident Card?"
Thanks for your help,
Alex
Hi Alex. If you've legally changed your middle name, then it would make sense to check it. Is there a reason you wouldn't want to?
Hi Valera,
I have not legally changed it (I did not go through the courts/paid a fee), just thought it would be possible to take my maiden name back as a middle name (first name – maiden name as middle name (no hyphen) – married name as last name) since that used to be my name and I now decided to add it back…is that incorrect? Do I really have to go through all the trouble of legally changing it?
If I check that box, I will be asked to include documentation but all I would have is my old passport and of course my birth certificate in my maiden name. Oh, and I have my social security card that shows it exactly the way I would like it :) I didn't have any problems adding my maiden name to that.
Sorry for all the confusion/questions!
Thanks again,
Alex
Hi Alex. Such a request is unlikely to go through if you're not able to furnish a certified document detailing your name change event, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
I see. Thanks for all your time and help!
Hi, hope you can help. I have been married for 5mths and while I understand her reasoning my wife on our marriage license has my last name. Her SS card has been changed to my last name. We recently filed our 2015 jointly in my last name, yet she recently called to returned to her old and she hasn't informed then that she is now married. She has alot of tax related issuse federal and state, with fraud issues from our state department of social services, and DMV issues that prevent changing her drivers licenes. I have seen documents supporting everything. Now my concern is that if we have filed tax documents jointly yet she has not informed her employer that we are married, and her madian name appears on income tax papers for 2015 and she recieve health insurance in her madian name while under investigation is this fraud? Or can I expect problems from the IRS later
Can you clarify this? Called and informed who?
It's not unusual for name changes to bump against tax season, where things are not fully in sync. Her employer can use the W-2C form for name corrections/updates.
It's important for the health insurance company's records to be up-to-date. When someone changes their name, it can take some time to go through the various organizations that need to be notified. It's not unlike changing one's address. Just because someone's taking a leisurely approach to updating their name across various organizations doesn't necessarily mean they're attempting to commit fraud.
With that said, if someone's deliberately not updating their name on record(s) in order to avoid debts, then that may be a fraudulent act. You may want to consider speaking with a CPA or attorney and laying out your concerns.
My husband passed away several months ago. I want to go back to my maiden name, can I do that legally without going before a judge?
Hi Barbara. It's unlikely you can return to your maiden name without first petitioning the court for a name change.
Good Morning,
I got married last week. Since my wife decided to add my last name to hers, our marriage certificate shows her new last name. Does that mean that she is REQUIRED to change her SSN, Passport, etc?
Can she still have her maiden name and continue to have it in her legal documents until she decides to change it officially sometime in the future, even though the marriage certificate shows her new last name. We both are international students in F-1 visas and it is a hassle to change her name in passport as it takes a long time. She would want to continue her name as it is. Is there going to be a problem in the future if she doesn't change her name?
Your comments are highly appreciated.
Thank you.
No. She's not required to change her name.
Yes.
No.
I got married at aged 38 after 16 years of establishing my career at a large consulting firm and moving around the world with this firm. I want to legally change my last name to my husband's name, but keep my maiden name at work. Ii already changed my name at the social security office to FirstName MaidenMiddle MarriedLast. However, my firm's HR department says that if I change my name legally I have to change it at work for tax purposes. If I do that, they automatically change all our internal databases / my email so no one would ever find me under my maiden name again.
My idea is to change my name at the social security office to First name Middle Name Maiden Name Married Name (with the original middle and maiden names both being middle names, not a double last name). Then I can keep my maiden name in databases at work so people can still track me down, and go by it with clients.
My questions are (1) is if I do that, can I then drop my maiden name from the above on my Colorado Drivers License and Passport? Or do the SSC, drivers license and passport have to match exactly all 4 of the names if that is what is on my SSC? (2) Also, if I do that, what else might I need to use all 4 names on (tax returns, etc)? I'm not sure how big of a deal a middle name is. (3) Can I just go to the SS office again and add my maiden name back in? I just did the original change 2 weeks ago and have been married 6 months. Or do I need to petition the courts? Thanks!
Would they support the use of an alias?
Unlikely for your driver's license as they can query the SSA database for a name match/mismatch. Possibly for passport, but you must provide acceptable identity documentation.
It's a good idea to have your name properly synced across such documents. SS and DL are often matched, which is a requirement established by the state driver's license offices. Passports operate on a separate track. It's federal, and they'll process name changes when provided proof of name change (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order) and valid identity documentation.
Yes, for taxes.
Court petition.
Hi my name is Nancy. I got married in 13yrs ago. N my husband is bipolar, when he gets angry he is always saying, "I want my last name back", so can anyone tell how I can change back to my maiden name , on my SS card, drvers license? Please help !
Hi Nancy. You would have to petition the court. Once you're granted a court order to change your name, you can do so.
Hi. I live in Oklahoma. I got married 6 years ago and changed my DL to my married name and never officially changed my SSN…what do I need to do to change my SSN to my married name now when my ID already says it? I know they need proof of identity. I do have my marriage license. My parents have misplaced my birth certificate so I need to file for one of those as well…
Hi RL. Bring in a certified copy of your marriage certificate and your current driver's license.
My husband and I got married in NYC and combined our surnames. We never really had the chance to use the surname since our state did not recognize marriage between same-sex couples. However, now that our state does recognize our marriage, we want to change our surname to something more favorable.
We're in the process of going through all the documentation and forms to present to the court in order to change our name; however, we never updated our surname to the one we chose in NYC since our state just recently recognizes our marriage. Do you believe we will need to update all our information (Social Security, DMV, etc) to our NYC surname before we can choose an updated name through the court, or do you believe using our maiden surnames in our documents will be sufficient?
Thank you!
Hi Rob. If you're going through the court petition process, why not just specify your new preferred name there, then use the court order to change your name on your documents (e.g., SS, driver's license)? This way you can complete the process in one sequence.
That's what our intent was; however, I wasn't sure if the court would not accept our documentation since we have not updated anything to our married surname Originally we chose "Kreese" when we got married in NYC in 2012; however, South Carolina only recently recognized marriages between same sex couples. We now decided that Kreese was not the surname we wanted, but rather than go through the process of updating all our records AND THEN going through the court to change our surname to "Kies"… we were hoping we could just go through the petition process and then update our records. I just wasn't sure if the courts would hold this against us.
Hi Rob. By going through the courts you and your husband would be able to get your name changed as you prefer. A court order would take precedence over all.
hi , i am Indian, i married to my ex husband and i took his middle name and last name thats how mostly indian do but now i am divorced with him but i have never changed my name so i still have my ex name as my middle name and last name too.now i got marry and i want to get his middle and last name so ican u guide me step by step . do you think am i able to do that …thank you
Hi hetalbahen. Are you in the U.S. or India? For U.S. name changes following marriage, you can change your last name as you prefer, but modifying your middle name to something that's not your maiden name may not be possible without getting a court order.
I have been married many years and can't remember if when I was married if I officially took my maiden name as my middle name or not. How can I find out what my legal name is? If I didn't add my maiden name years ago, How can I do it now?
Hi Susan. I'm assuming you chose to change your name when you married several years back, but never got around to officially changing it anywhere. If that's the case, your legal name (at least the middle portion) is what it was before you married. You can visit your nearest SS office to verify the name record on file. If you're looking to change your name now, acquire a certified copy of your marriage certificate from your vital records office, then use that to begin the name change process across the various institutions.
Is there a way to add my husband's last name without effecting other documents. A relative stated I could just add his name without hypenating and that would allow me to use both my maiden name and married name interchangeably. Is that true? Can I just add the name to the end and then be able to use all the same identification..DL, pass port etc…
Hi Kim. For documents such as your driver's license, passport, you'll have to use your full legal name, hyphenated or not.
Hi, i recently got married (less than a month)and i took my husbAnd's last name . i will start working soon but i havent changed any of my legal paper would this be a problem when getting my check ? Also, can i change back to my single last name if so what would i need?
Thank you in AdvAnce
Hi Joana. Since you haven't updated any of your documents, you'll just keep doing what you have been by using your established name. Once you undergo a legal name change, you can only return to your prior name by petitioning the court.
I got married by city hall office back in November, I changed my surname on paper but I haven't changed any documents like social security, ID etc.. How do I file my taxes, married or single? Alil confused here… Help! Please.
Whether or not you change your name doesn't impact how you choose to file. There's no applicable connection.
Hello,
I'm in the process of becoming an U.S Citizen. My name in all my documents here in USA is: Mercedes Albeniz Howell (my name as a married US resident).
My passport from my country goes by: Mercedes Elena Albeniz Bermudez (my original full maiden name).
I am not changing the way my name shows in my country's passport to my full married name as it would be too long and tedious, plus that would force me to be in my country for weeks to take care of it personally and change some other documents as well. Lastly, almost no women takes the husbands name in my country when they get married.
When I become an US citizen, I'm planning to drop my husband's name (Howell) just to have my passport issued in a way that matches more exactly my country's passport. I travel a lot to my country and will need to carry both passports every time.
My question is: Even if my USA passport showed Mercedes Albeniz as my full name, could I continue being Mercedes Albeniz Howell in all documents in the USA (DL, credit cards, etc)? My understanding is that I could, as long as I don't change my Social Security card to Mercedes Albeniz only. Am I right? Thank you!
Hi Mechy. You can maintain the preferred name on your passport, but you'll need to make certain that name matches what's on your airline tickets.
I need help! I recently was married in May 2014. I've sucessfully changed my last name on my DL and bank accounts/ insurance/ work/ tax forms…….all except my SSN. This hasn't been an issue until now…. My husband and I just filed our taxes tonight online with TurboTax (as he's done every year) and shortly after we submitted everything, we received an email from them stating our submission was rejected because the name does not match the name on the SSN.
My question is- do I need to go change this asap or is there a way to enter the information that is legal? Any help would be awesome as we paid to submit these online tonight and worried we will lose our money!!!
Hi Kirsten. It would make sense to change it with the SSA. Once that's done, your records with the IRS will sync up. Find a SS office that's closest to you, then do it in person. Bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate with you.
So good to find you. A lot of great info.Here's my own twist:
Married, last year in EU to an EU man. Live between US and EU.
All papers and insurance and such have been changed to married name in EU only +my US passport, as required, there.
Is it required that I change all things in U.S., because I changed passport?
Or, can I simply change marital status on US tax forms without having to change my name?
My work name continues to be in maiden name along with all US accounts and credit cards,etc.
If we fully move back here to US, then likely I would do it all in one shot:).
I don't feel ready to totally lose my old identity and am hoping for good news:).
Thank you for your help:).
No.
Yes.
Wow. Thank you!:) Months of stressing all whooshed away by a simple "no" & "yes". Will look you up when the time comes to change all:). You just made my year!Happy 2015.:):)
Hi,
I have been married for nearly 30 years. When I got married I changed my passport to my married name and for my driver's license I have my maiden name and married name which I used for almost all my bank accounts. But my husband opened new accounts using only my married name and several of those entities have been sending us w-9's . I have been sending them back with both my maiden name and married name and some of them are coming back asking for proof of change. The fact is I did not change for social security and for IRS I file jointly with my husband but use my maiden name for some time now per their request. Do I need to change my social security card? My voter's registration shows both names as well.
Hi Toni. As I understand it, you're currently employing three surname usages:
1) Maiden only (for social security card)
2) Married only (for passport and new miscellaneous accounts)
3) Maiden and married (for driver's license and older bank accounts)
IRS goes by #1. That's what your W-9's reference (or are supposed to). As you've been jointly filing taxes for years with this setup, you or your accountant may have been able to navigate around this, but surname #1 is your primary recognized name.
You could update your SS record and passport to reflect what you already have on your driver's license and bank accounts. That'll sync up most of your records.
If you prefer not to do that and maintain the status quo, you'll have to contact the various "entities" to determine what proof of name change, identity, or marriage they'd deem acceptable. Perhaps a copy (certified or photocopy) of your marriage certificate, or a photocopy of your driver's license?
Hi,
I am a green card holder and was divorced last year but I kept my ex-husband's last name. I got remarried on January 10, 2015 and my husband now (and I) wants me to carry his last name. I will be applying for naturalization this coming September and we were both wondering if I have to file for I-90 to change my last name on my green card and pay $450 for it or if we can just wait until September for my naturalization and provide all documents at once like the divorce decree, marriage certificate, green card with my ex's last name. Will this be a conflict if we change my name with the RMV and SSA for now and wait until the filing for naturalization? Your response will be highly appreciated. Thank you so much!
Hi Lei. You can wait to change your name until later.
hi there, I am Canadian and had a legal name change over ten years ago. I never changed my drivers license to reflect this change because I had bank accounts etc in my old name and needed ID until I could change everything over. Time passed and I got busy with other things and just never got around to changing anything. Am I going to be hit with a big fine or arrested if I attempt to update my drivers license now? If I renew it with my old name that will be equally illegal, yes? Would yo be able to email me a response? Many thanks!
Hi Faye. You're fine. When you go to update your name at the driver's license office just bring your current ID as well as your marriage certificate. Since you've waited a long while to change it, they may charge a modest fee to update your name. It's not a penalty fee, just a regular processing fee.
thank you SO much!
I got married 10 years back in India. My marriage certificate issued by Indian Government just certifies that me (my full maiden name) and my husband (his full name) have got married. I have a professional career built on my maiden name and hence I never changed it. My passport, GC and all official documents have my maiden name. We also file our taxes jointly and I've been using my maiden name on it.
We are going through naturalization process now and the name change has come up. I don't want to lose my maiden name for sure. I was wondering if there is a way to add my husband's last name as an alias to my last name. In other words is it possible to have 2 last names. I don't want to change my identity but want to share my husband's and kids last names.
Please advice.
No, although you can use an alias informally.
I came to USA on L2 visa seven years back. I had kept my maiden name. I have SSN issued while I was on L2. Two years back, I had to switch to H4. I decided to change my last name to married name, so I got the court order for the same last week. However, SSA denied to change the name on SSN since now I am on H4. We haven't changed the name at any other authorities yet.
Can I still change name for driving license, uscis, car loan and bank accounts etc.?
I have second thoughts now given all this hassle. Is there an option to not change the name and continue using the maiden name, even after the court order?
Is not obeying the court order going to be a problem? Do I need to go back to court and file another petition?
H-4 visa holders aren't able to get a SS number, nor can they be employed. That's why the SSA denied your request.
Yes.
If you do nothing and notify none of the institutions that you want to change your name, then your name won't change. Things will remain as they always were.
Thanks for the reply.
If I continue the maiden name, what happens to the court order? Will that public record cause problems in future?
Do I have to mention my married name wherever they ask "other names" on forms?
Nothing. If unused, it has no impact and serves no purpose.
No.
I changed my name to my martied name on my DL but not at Social Security. Can I change my name on my DL back to my maiden name and how. I no longer want to legally change my name.
Hi Lisa. It's interesting that you were able to change things in that sequence, as SSA typically comes before DL. Some driver's license offices will query the SSA database for a new name match before processing a name change. Anyway, considering the atypical order, you can contact your driver's license office about reverting to your maiden name which would reflect the current name on your social security card. Although it's unlikely they'll process the request without a court order.
Hi, I have a question about my California ID card. I have an orientation for my new job coming up and the HR asked me to bring my SS card and my ID. I am a bit worried because although my SS card has been updated with my new name, my ID card still has my maiden name on it. Should I bring my marriage license to prove the name change or will having my maiden name on my ID cause problems with the hiring process?
Hi Camille. If you're unable to update your ID before orientation, then it would be a good idea to bring your marriage certificate and, even perhaps, your birth certificate which would confirm your maiden name and identity. It also wouldn't hurt to contact the point person ahead of time to inquire if these will be acceptable forms of identification.
Hi! I was wondering if I can use my maiden name instead of my married name being widowed before a divorce was possible? Thanks
Hi Melinda. There's not a shortcut way to do this, even if you have a certified death certificate. You'll have to petition the court for a name change. Once you go through that process and the judge signs off on it, you can take your court order and change your records back to your maiden name.
Hi i am amanda I've been married 3 years and I have not got my last name changed. I'm am also getting ready to file seperation papers soon. I no longer want to have his last name. I'm kind stressing myself out about this name change thing can I get In trouble
Hi Amanda. If you've never changed your last name, then what would you be concerned about? There's no trouble for you because you never chose to change your name. Many people choose not to go through a name change post-marriage, which isn't a big deal.
Hi! My husband recently got the courts to approve his daughter's (my step daughter's) last name being hyphenated. We live in Georgia. He has primary custody, the mother has been in and out of the child's life. She would not agree to a last name change but did agree to a hyphenated name. They were never married.
My first question is: the biological mother took her stepfather's last name, Smith, at 13. To my knowledge he never legally adopted her. Should this change our circumstances for getting a full last name chAnge? Or is that technically still considered her maiden name? Let me add she is also married and no longer uses the last name Smith.
My next question is this: My husband had the judge put his last name first so it looks like this: Williams-Smith. Our thinking was that friends of ours who are Hispanic have the mother's maiden name at the end because it was done that way in Puerto Rico. They however only go by the father's last name which is first. We assumed that on everything but her SS card would be able to just be Williams. Our attorney also believed this was the case. We are getting some push back from the school to just use Williams (even in the yearbook). Is it legally ok to leave the second part of the hyphenated name off? Or does my stepdaughter legally have to use both? Insurance company even agreed to just use Williams but we don't want the have her going by multiple names. Please help!!
Change circumstances how? Are you looking to override the biological mother's objection to a non-hyphenated name change?
This depends on the situation, and may very well have to be decided on a case-by-case basis. What you're currently doing is a safe approach. For the school, you're making them aware of her legal name and the name that you/she prefers to be referred by. Same for the insurance company. It works because they're aware of the full picture.
Problems can come into play if your stepdaughter's name is registered with an entity that isn't aware and it has some legal implications that could arise due to a name mismatch.
I plan on marrying In Las Vegas in 2015, but will reside in Pennsylvania. I am marrying late in life (I'm 44) and do not want to change my SS, DL, Banking, Credit Cards, or professional licenses (of 15 years), etc .. On the application for marriage certificate I'm filing ahead of time Vegas thru the Clerk my name is: firstbirthname, Middlebirthname, Maidenlastname Husband last name. (No Hyphen)
However, I don't plan on changing all of those documents above, but do plan on having a utility bill and 1 joint account placed in my "married name",
Can I legally do that?
Additionally, socially I will be referring to myself w/ Husbands last name (which I know I can socially do w/o legal issues).
Also, how will this effect me &/or my spouse later in life when it comes to financial issues if I don't "legally" have his last name? Social security death benefits (him &/or I).
Also, I have a purchased home prior to marriage, (deeded only in my name as I purchased it alone). If something happens to me, I would want him to receive that. Would he have a problem b/c I didn't legally change my last name? Would I have to will it, rather tan it automatically go to the surviving spouse?
Any assistance is apprecoiated
Sure, if your bank allows it. As for the utility company, it's possible they wouldn't object or really care one way or the other. You could always pose this question to them as a "prospective" customer.
Shouldn't be an issue.
No.
Best to contact your mortgage provide or an attorney for clarity on this.
When we married, we hypenated our surnames and registered the change with our banks, Social Security, Immigration and the DMV. But – after the marriage – I applied for jobs in my maiden name, because I wanted to retain my professional reputation. On my first day at my new job, I filled in a lot of forms. I used my married (legal) name on all the tax forms, but my pay slips are always in my maiden name, and so I'm worried that filing my taxes is going to be a problem. I was told by a guy at social security that I could continue using my maiden name for work purposes if I wanted to. Have I made a terrible mistake or is this scenario okay?
Seems perfectly fine and well structured.
HI I'm getting married next week and we're getting the confidential license. we are secretly getting married and we don't want anyone to know is there a possibility that i could still use my single last name on legal document / career/ passport and have it on my marriage license ? what are my real options I've been reading a lot of stuff and I'm just confused right now. or can i change my single name to my married name maybe in 10 years ?
Hi Valerie. Yes, to both questions. If you don't change your name (regardless of what's on your marriage license) you'd continue using your maiden name. You can wait to change your name many years later, if you so choose.
I have been married almost four years,I took my husbands last name.But now I would like to take my maiden name back,even though we're married. Is that possible?
Hi Joyce. Since you've already undergone a marriage-related name change once, in order to change it again within the same marriage (such as maiden name reversion) would require you to petition the court.
I graduated. With my stepdads lastname and iam getting. Married. Do i jave to use my maiden. Name
Hi Robert. Can you provide some more details? Are you required to use it how?
Ok. Here is my question. I got my passport in 2005 (still good until October 2015). It was in my maiden name. I got married and never changed my passport to my married name. We have since been divorced. I did not change my name back to my maiden name. I got remarried December 2014. So I now have a new legal name with SS and DMV. Passport is still in my maiden name. Can I use my passport or do I have to change it into my new married name and how will my former marriage and divorce play into my changing my name on the new passport?
Hi Lori. Your passport's still valid and usable. When it's time to renew, it'll have to reflect your married new name.
Hello, I changed my last name on my SS and Drivers license to my married last name. Now I am having second thoughts about it, will it be possible for me to go back to my maiden name without a hassel. I currently live in Texas.
Hi Samantha. A follow-up name change would require you to petition the court.
I am a senior and recently married (2 weeks ago). When I filled out the app for a marriage license I used my previous married name which my drivers license, my social security benefits and pension are still in. I would like to use my maiden name hyphenated with my new married name. Please advice on how to do this. Thank you.
Hi Racho. Acquire a certified copy of your marriage certificate from your vital records office, then use it change your name with the various institutions (e.g., SSA, DMV).
I am recently married, but have not yet changed my name. I do not want to lose my maiden name or my middle name (by moving the maiden to my middle), so my plan was to change my name to "First, Middle, Maiden Married" (so, two last names, no hyphen).
My question in this case is if (after the change) I must use both last names on documents, or if I can use one or the other.
Hi C. Legal based documents would require the use of both names, which is still considered a whole name despite the space.
Hi…..I married my husband in 2000.I changed my name on my DL,Bank account,Military Dependent ID,etc,but never changed it with SSA…Stay at home mom…Never had a problem…Fast forward almost 15 years and I am getting ready to seek employment and realize that I will need my DL and SS card to match…I have heard that I will need Identification in my maiden name in order to change my name on the SS card to my married name because it has been longer than 2 years…Problem is,I don't have anything in my maiden name(besides my birth certificate and marriage license)Will these two forms work?Thanks in advance for your response!
Hi Sabrina. That should work fine. Make sure it's a certified copy of your marriage certificate. If they consider it insufficient confirmation of your identity and you can't provide acceptable supporting documentation, then your driver's license showing your new name could be used as a backup.
my husband and I have been separated for 5 years now some people don't know that I was married and on one of my social security card it has my married name and on the other one I have has my maiden name on it someone wrote me a check in my maiden name and I could not cash it they said unless I had ID can I take my birth certificate and social security card that has my maiden name on it and go to legally get an ID in my maiden name
Hi Victoria. Are you saying you have one social security card with your maiden name and one with your married name? I'm assuming the prior is a legacy document that's been invalidated by your most recent name change? Anyway, what are you ultimately trying to accomplish? Making it possible to cash checks in your maiden name, or legally reverting to your maiden name?
I got married in NYC on 10/11/12 (same-sex), but we reside in South Carolina. Unfortunately, when we went to get married, we did not realize that we could only use one of our surnames names for the other or a combination of the two together. At the last minute we hastily chose something we ultimately didn't like.
SC did not recognize marriage between same-sex couples and we were forced to use our previous individual surnames for the time being. Now that SC recognizes marriages between same-sex couples, we would like to get our surname changed; however, we would like to get them changed to something more appealing.
'm assuming we have to go through the court process and pay $150 each to change our surnames. If we have to go through the court process, how does our NYC Marriage License get updated to reflect our new surnames? Will we receive a new Marriage License in the mail from NYC with our new surnames, but retain the original marriage date of 10/11/12?
Hi Rob. If you both get your names changed through the court system then that'll supercede your NY marriage document. The court order is what you'll use to complete your various name change tasks.
Hi iam a green card holder,married i didnt yet changed my last name from my husbands name. Can i petition him? Or it can affect the petition? Because i sed my maiden name? Thankyousomuch
And should i update ss for my marital status changed and uscis? Thankyouu more power
Hi Krishia. I'm not certain what your petition is in reference to. It would be worthwhile to notify USCIS regarding your marital status. SS doesn't have have an equivalent.
OK, so in 1993 I was married, but I never changed my SSN to my married name. I did change my DL to my married name with my marriage certificate. I divorced in 1996 but still kept that married name. Divorce docs never mentioned anything about name (my assuming maiden name back was not a thought at the time). In 1999 I got a mortgage with BB&T, and to verify my identity they used my DL, so my mortgage is in my married name. Years later the SSA is saying that the mortgage interest I am claiming is not matching up due to my SSN being in my maiden name but my mortgage still in my married name. So I call BB&T and fax then a cover letter syaing all of this and that I need them to change my name back to my maiden name so it matches my SSN. I sent them a copy of my DL (which I switched back to my maiden name with just a divorce doc), passport in maiden name, marriage certificate and subsequent divorce court order, and a copy of my SSN card. They still refuse to change it. They say they need a legal doc saying I changed my name back. What do I do?
Please note I went back to my maiden name about 5 years ago and now everything I have is in my maiden name except this mortgage. BB&T says they are going to start backup withholdings because my names don't match, but I faxed all docs showing I have all pertinent ID in my maiden name now – yet they still say I need a court doc saying I changed my name.
Hi Kris. Can you provide your bank a certified copy of your divorce decree?