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 got married in Oct of last year, so I got name change at SS no problem but when I went to get new DL I was told because my birth certificate last name didn't match my maiden name listed on the marriage certificate I have a lot of other work to do. Anyway, I'm wondering if I can take my birth certificate back to the marriage licenses and get it all changed? If not, what can I do? Please help!! Thank you!!
Hi April. A few questions for clarification. Which state is this? Did they specify what additional work they expected of you? Are you trying to change something in addition to your last name, such as your middle name?
April, which should be the "correct" last name – the one your BC shows or the one your ML shows?
If the name on the ML is wrong, you ought to contact the court where you got it from to have it corrected.
If the mismatch is because your last name was changed for some other reason at some point (e.g. adopted, wrong father, took a stepfather's last name, etc.) either show the court documentation along with everything else when changing to your married name, or contact the Vital Records department in the state you were born in to have your BC amended to show the correct maiden name. (For most official purposes your maiden name is defined as the one you had right before your first marriage, so if that is the case then the name after, and not before, the other name change is the one that would be used on things like your children's birth certificates, etc. according to most states' policies.)
If your BC is in error then likewise try and get it amended to avoid problems in the future.
I'm getting married next week in NC but reside in GA. This is my 2nd marriage. I kept my previous married name because of all the hassle related to name change, including the scary first trip to the SS office. (My first husband is actually deceased since our divorce.) I want to sign my new husband's name as my last name and my maiden name as my middle name on the marriage certificate. Can I do what since I want to wait to go through the name change process for now since my passport and driver's license are fairly new? Passport expires in 6 years and DL expires in 4 years. I also have a mortgage with just my current legal name as the holder. (Another reason I wanted to wait.)
Does the GA DMV require I use my birth middle name or once I change my social they must match that or do I have to use my full first, birth middle, maiden and married names? Can I wait to change all my documents and for how long can I wait? I was thinking of waiting a year although I'd use my married name socially for now. I own my own small business and am not concerned about changing it professionally. If for some reason I decided to restore my maiden name completely, would that be an easier process?
Thanks in advance.
The name on your drivers license and SSN should match.
Although you could wait until renewal time, it's always advisable to make sure your records are synced, sooner rather than later.
Assuming the restoration isn't part of a divorce, then the process is more involved as it would entail petitioning the court. It's not really difficult—just a different process to undertake.
I got married in 2012. I changed basically everything except for my Driver's License (life happened and I've never been able to get around to it). I have two questions 1) Can I get in trouble for not changing it within the 30 day period? 2) If I already have my new social security card, do I even have to bring my marriage license with me?
What do you mean by trouble?
Yes. Bring your marriage "certificate" with you when you go.
I am getting remarried. I would like to have my middle name be my last married name(which I have had for 17 years) and my new last name be my new married name, can I do that? On my Florida DL now it reads Melissa Davids(maiden name) Smith(married name). My SSC reads Melissa Anne(born with middle name) Smith. My passport reads Melissa D Smith. I sign everything now with Melissa Smith.
If I can make my new middle name be Smith and make my last name my NEW married name, then can I still legally sign as Melissa Smith and as Melissa (new name)? My job that I work at requires me to sign as a representative of the company so I am trying to not have to change my name on all of the documents I sign at work. Is this possible? Basically I would like to have my name read Melissa Smith (new name) on D,.SSC and passport.
Hi Melissa. It's unlikely, as that would be considered more of an arbitrary name change request which typically would have to be done through court petition. As for signing your name, your full legal married name would have to go on legal-based documents.
Hello!
I got married in 2007, and kept my maiden name for a while, Jane Smith. In 2008, while renewing my Drivers' License, I changed my name to my married name – Jane Smith Jones. I have been employed several times using my passport as documentation which is under my married name – Jane Smith.
In 2013, I had to renew my passport, and I had to change my name to match my driver's license – Jane Smith Jones. Now, when I fill out paperwork for jobs, people want me to put that name, Jane Smith Jones, even though for work I use my maiden name as my professional name – Jane Smith. I have never changed my SS card name from Jane Smith, and so far have not had a problem renewing my driver's license. Is the DL/SS card match something that is new? Will I have problems with this in the future?
I file my taxes under Jane Smith and all my accounts are Jane Smith. Recently I have had problems with an employer who made me put down the name on my passport "Jane Smith Jones" which was fine, except they published that married name, even though I told them I wanted to use the name Jane Smith professionally. I feel like that's an invasion of my privacy, but I don't know if I have any protection on that, although they said they'd use my professional name, which is my maiden name, Jane Smith.
So, two questions – am I going to have a problem getting a DL if my SS card isn't updated with the married name, and are there any rights one has at keeping one's married name private (with the exception of within HR, etc.)? Thanks for your help!!
Yes, this can be a problem down the road. The DMV can query the SSA database, and if there's a name mis-match reissuance of your license may not be possible.
For tax-related purposes, whatever name your employer uses must match your social security record. You may want to take a look at this taxes and name change article for a more detailed explanation behind this reasoning.
As for keeping your married name private, that would have to worked out with your employer. You previously mentioned your married name was published when you asked that it not be disclosed. Was an explanation given as to why that happened? Was it inadvertent? Do they have a policy position about this? Did they provide future assurance (verbal or written) that such an error would not happen again?
Hello,
I was married 5 months ago. I will be travelling out of the country on May. The ticket I purchased used my maiden name which matches my passport's. I do not want to renew my passport yet as this is to expire on 2016 and it will consume time, effort and expense. Will it be okay? I may not be able to use a verification ID to support my identity in the passport because my IDs are all now under my married name.
Thanks!
Hi Yeng. You should be fine, as your passport and ticket names match.
Hi today monday I just changed my last name on the ssa & they said that within7-10 days I should receive my new ss card , after receiving that in the mail will that be my official name?
Also do I have to change my last name on my passport and birth certificate?
In what other documents is it necessary for me to change to my married name ?
Thanks
Yes.
No.
Anything that references your prior name, you should look into updating. Government and non-governmental. Anything work, wage, or tax-related. Insurance accounts (e.g., life, health, car). Check your mail stack for bills, bank/credit card statements, and subscriptions you'll need to transition. Online accounts you've registered.
I would like to know if I can legally go back to using my maiden name on my drivers license, ss card and irs? I've been estranged from my husband for 2 yrs, we live in different states.
Hi Dawn. If you were looking to restore your maiden name post-divorce, you could request the judge put in an order restoring your maiden name. But, for your non-divorce situation, you're looking at having to go the court petition route.
I got married and legally changed my name on SSN, drivers license but not on my green card or russian passport. Can I still order airplane tickets inder my maiden name since it appers on my passport and green card? Thanks.
P.S. I'm US permenant resident and trying to plan vacation to Mexico
Hi Darya. Yes, you can.
Hi, I'm married and live in California. I took my husband's last name and changed it on my DL and SSN. I'm still working under my maiden name though. Am I wrong for doing this? My W2 also shows my maiden name. Do I do taxes with my maiden name or my husband's last name?
Husband's last name. You should get your W2 updated to reflect it as well.
I hyphenated my last name when I was married 2 years ago, and I was wondering if I can legally sign documents with just my spouses last name, or if I have to always include the entire hyphenated version? I apologize if anyone has asked this already. Thank you!
You'll have to sign your full hyphenated name on such documents.
Hi:
I got married 9 months ago and, at the time I was not sure about taking my husband's name. Now i want to take it but can I just do this change on my SS and not the marriage certificate? Will they ask for this name change to be on my marrige certificate?
Thank you!!
Yes.
is there any way i can i change my lastname to my maiden name on my drivers license ( its only on my driver license) my social , my us passport and even my checks from work is on my maiden name, cause me and my ex wasnt together for a long time, less than 2 months after marriage we got separated, we warent living together or have any kids together, we werent married in us so by the law officially i am not even married here in USA, the DPS wont change the driver license name until i will bring them divorse documents, they wont barge or listen, my ex divorced me only this year from another country and dont want to send me documents, this is bothering me alot, i dont wanna live forever with my driver license like this.
by the law in the country where i got married he doesnt have to send me any papers at all, since we never almost even live together, the marriage was a sham from the start and it was doomed.
but what am I suppost to do with the stupid last name on my license. what if i get stopped by police and they ask me for licence ( one lastname ) and my insurance ( another last name) am I breaking any law here? if so but how is it my fault?
Hi Anna. What state and country are you referring to?
Hello..I got married and want to take my husbands name , but I'm not legal in this country for now . I have my social security number and a work authorization through the " Dreamers Act " But my question is , if I change my name , will I have problems when I'll renew my work authorization.
Hi Sindy. You should be fine as long as your records with USCIS are properly updated. You'll want to make sure your name records are synced.
Here's a real doozy for you. My last name was recorded on my birth certificate as my mothers maiden name "Smith". When I was 4 years old, my mother married my stepfather (who never legally adopted me) and obtained a Social Security card for me with his last name, "Green" and I've gone by that name (through school, jobs, taxes, all) using "Green" my whole 46 years.
I obtained a passport with "Green" by showing my DL and explaining what I just explained to you. 1) Which would actually be my legal name, Smith or Green? 2) I've been thinking I might like to have a Consulting Business using the name on my birth certificate (which I've never used for anything before) while still using the Green name as I always have (for banking, W-2s, SS, etc). How might this be possible ( get a DBA as Smith?) 3) When I get married, can I adopt "Green-Married Name' (with or without hyphen) but keep bank accounts, credit cards and such under "Green" only? 4) If I then were to get a divorce (after adding his last name with mine)…would it be difficult to go back to just Green on SS card if divorced? What if I changed my name at marriage to his last name….but got divorced and wanted to go back to Green on SS card? Would SS office force me to use name on birth cert or give me another one with Green since I've had one before?
I once called the SS office and asked questions related to what name I could use for business and they seemed to be confused themselves as my mother could never walk in and get a SS card with a different name than my birth cert stated (without court name change) today.
Green.
DBA is a sensible option.
Yes, to first part. Maybe, on the second, if your bank will allow it.
No. Request the judge put in an order to restore your previous name.
They'll use the name that is specified to be restored in your divorce decree.
I'm not sure if you'll be able to answer this one but it's worth a try. I was in the military and got married just before my separation date so didn't feel the need to change it for the military. Although I did legally change my name and notified everything else of the name change. I am now filling out an application to keep my life insurance coverage with the military. Should I continue using my maiden name or do I use my married name?
Married name, as it's now your current, legal name.
If you are re-marrying and have never legally changed your name back to your maiden name,and you use your maiden name on your new marriage certificate, does that void the marriage?
No. It wouldn't invalidate your marriage.
I changed my married name only on my passport to my maiden name. Can i keep using my married name on my social security card, driver's license, IRS forms and insurance?
Yes. Make sure that your plane tickets match your passport name.
I got married last feb here in Cali. I got my husbands name but the girl who let sign our marriage contract write my middle name as my new middle name too.. So instead of my surname would be my new middle name.. Is that ok??
Your middle name was incorrectly replaced by your middle name? Are you saying your middle name should have been replaced by your maiden name, but your middle name was maintained instead? Please clarify.
Yes…do u think we are going to have a problem with my new name,.,!
I don't see what the problem is if that's how you intend to keep it.
I recently remarried & my marriage l chose to hyphenate my maiden & my new husbands name….. so I can keep using my maiden name for professional purposes & my husbands name in all other aspects. All my documents have been updated. I have an 11 yr old who requested my ex to sign permission on the court name change form for minors to list his name then hyphen & her new dads name. If he allows this I know I need to alert the school of legal name change but with the hyphen can she use my new husbands name in everyday situations and be referred to that last name (w/o ex's last name) by teachers & in activities? Her biological father recently moved to Fla. & they have had very limited contact since she was 3. She wants to use the same last name as me & her new "dad" but ex will not allow her to totally remove his last name & she does not want to give up her middle name but wants to be known primarily as her stepdads last name. What is the best way to handle this situation???? TIA
Yes, it is possible if the school will agree to refer to your child by an alias. You'll have to contact the school to arrange that.
I changed my last name when I got married 30 years ago. For approximately 10 years now I have been doing unpaid professional advocacy work and have used my maiden name. I am now completing my Ph.D. and would like to continue to use my maiden name to do paid consulting work. I will be creating an LLC, and I'm wondering if I can use my maiden name for legal transactions when 1) forming the LLC, and 2) doing business with clients. Thank you.
Hi Sharon. For legal purposes, you'll have to use your actual, changed full name.
Hi, I'm new to your site. I have a question. I got married 6/26/11. I wanted to know if it was too late to change it. I had two days off from work and never got around to it. When I do change next week will it show that I'll only been married since the date that I changed or will it be for the dated that it was issued.
I know that I have been legally married since 2011 but my name haven't been changed. My husband and I work together so my job has my name under my married but my SS and DL still under maiden. Please help
No, it's not too late.
I'm not sure what you're referring to. Any reference to the date you married would be the actual date.
Hi my W2s form have my maiden name in my Id have my marriage name but I never changed my social can I still fill our will I have to change everything
The name on you W2's must match the name on your social. Since they do currently match, you should be good to go.
22 years ago when I married I intended to take my husband's last name but never changed it with SS. (He put the certificate away in the security deposit box right away and I never got it back out to do the paperwork) I did renew my drivers license using my maiden name as middle name and his last name. Now this year they won't renew my DL because the name doesn't match SS card. Went to change SS card today and they can't use my marriage certificate because it is more than 2 years old. I don't really care which name I go by but I do need a new DL. Any suggestions?
Hi Janet. Contact the vital records office where you certificate was filed, then order a new certified copy. Your driver's license is an identity document showing your new name. Your marriage certificate provides proof of marriage. The combination of these two documents should be sufficient to process your name change with the SSA. After the SSA updates their records, return to the DMV to renew your license.
Hi, I was married in November and my marriage license states my first name, my maiden last name, and my husband's last name. I dropped my maiden middle name so I could keep my maiden last name as my middle. I need to renew my passport for our honeymoon in May and want to keep my name the same on it (maiden). So my question is, do I need to report the marriage name change if I want to keep my maiden name on my passport? I have not changed any other documents and will not for a while. I just wanted to be sure that I am doing the right thing before I send my application off for the passport renewal. Thank you for your help!
No. Keep in mind, the name on your airline tickets must match the name on your passport.
I decided to take my husband's last name when we got married two years ago. I'm fairly young, and soon I'll be entering college to refine my writing skills. If we could go back in time, I probably would have stuck with my maiden name, seeing as how it seems slightly costly to petition your name change in court. (We are happily married, I've just had a change of heart when it comes to the name situation.) I've changed all legal documents to his last name. My SS, financial aid, passport, driver's license, & banking info. When it comes to school, for social and artistic reasons, especially if I ever end up working for a local newspaper…I would very much like to be known by my maiden name. Especially in school, including my diploma at the end of it all. Would this be acceptable by the college if I address it with someone and provide my birth and marriage certificate, just making it apparent I want to go by one and not the other? Thanks for taking the time to read this, I appreciate it.
It may be possible. It's up to the college, so you'll have to take it up with them.
Hello,
I'm in process of getting a divorce. But I have some confusion. I never change my name on my greed card to my married name. Its still under my maiden name. Its almost time to renew it. I would like to keep it with my maiden since I'm going through a divorce. Even though I have DL, SS ,and credit card under my marriage name. Do I need to renew my green card with my married name or can I just renew with my maiden name.
It's important for the name on your green card to match your social security record. At the time of renewal it should match your current legal name, whatever that may be at the time.
Prior to renewal you can bring up your intent to restore your maiden name following your divorce and how they can accommodate that ultimate modification.
I got married in 2001 and I signed my married name on the marriage certificate but the night we got married he burned it so I couldn't change my name I have been using my maiden name for everything. Can I get in trouble for this? and how do I go about filling for divorce so I can get married to my fiancée now? I live in Ill. Thank You
No. From what you've described, you never went through a name change, so your legal name remains your maiden name. Divorce, and other legal documents, should be filed under your actual legal name.
Hi, I am a hindu guy, got married to a muslim girl. Yes its a love marriage. while getting married, my father-in-law accepted me only if i change my name like converting. So they have arranged documents for name change. Like a letter from a advocate.. its been 3yrs now, i didint change my name to a muslim name.even my marriage certificate is with my real name only.Was using my old name only.bt now,my wife is conceived. so they were asking me to change my name. i dont want to change my old name in all the proofs right from my school, office and social(bank,credit cards, passport).. is there any idea to change my new name without affecting the proofs of old name.As i have many proofs in that. please advise me. Can i add my old name to the new name(like Zafer Anand?), so that i dont need to change in any proofs…please advise.
Hi Anand. What country is your name change taking place in?
I got married in September, and I did put in a request to change my SSN. I would like to continue to use my maiden name for now- at work, on my DL, my credit cards, etc. Is that okay, or am I legally responsible to change it everywhere since my SSC says my married name??
Anything tied to the SSA database – your work, the IRS, (in most states) your DL, etc. the name must match (so in your case that means you must use your married name for those). For credit cards (like I said a few posts above) it depends on whether or not the company will let you keep one under an alternate name.
Hi, I changed my ss card a about 3 months ago, but I haven't changed my passport yet. Is my passport still legal?
Thanks?
Yes.
i am about to get married again.i use my maiden name ,the registry office said i need to show them my marriage certificate to link the names together,i don't have it it was sent to the court.what do i do now ?
Hi Kathleen. The marriage certificate isn't available until after you're married. Are you looking to get a certificate from a prior marriage? Here's some info about getting a copy of your marriage certificate, which should be able to help you get what you need if there's a filed certificate in existence.
i was married in august '13, and added his last name to mine at the social security office and dmv. so now its lauren maiden married. can i still use my maiden name when i file my taxes this year?
No. You'll have to file your taxes under your married name, which must match what's on record with the SSA.
Hi,
Thanks for all the info, I read through a lot of the comments, it is very helpful. Here is my situation:
I got married 2 weeks ago and added my husband's last name to my maiden name on the marriage certificate. I haven't gone to SS office or DMV or anywhere to change my name yet. It is only in the marriage certificate so far because I changed my mind and do not want to change my name now. I am currently in the US with a work visa, H1B, on my maiden name. My husband will apply for a green card for me. Here's the question. Do we apply for the green card using my maiden name (since it is my legal name) or the new name (as it is stated in the marriage certificate)? I understand that marriage certificate is not a legal name change document but it is the proof that I am married to my husband for the green card purposes. I really don't want to change my name, it is such a hassle but I am not sure if it will be a problem with the USCIS office. If I apply with my maiden name, will they issue a green card to me with my maiden name even though the marriage certificate shows that I changed my name to a different married name? or will they give me a green card with my married name, since it is what marriage certificate says? Please advise. Thank you so much in advance.
You'll be using your maiden name. Since you've decided not to change your name, the alternative name on your certificate isn't applicable.
hello, I am having a couple issues with my last name and my bank account. I was married for 5 years and now am divorced for the past few years. When I married I never changed my ss card to my new last name. The only thing I changed was my DL. The issue I am having now but have never had in the past years is with my tax refund. I use my maiden name for everything due to my SS cars not being changed. I have had my tax refund deposited in my bank account last year and this year. Well now I get a phone call from my bank saying that I need to get a new debt card saying my maiden name before I am aloud to touch my money in my account.
Heres the problem: 1. My purse was stolen last year and my SS card was in it and I have not gotten a new one yet. 2. I dont have my divorce papers but can get them from my lawyer but in those papers it states I was keeping my ex-husbands last name due to my 3 children. 3. It doesnt matter to me what last name I have, I just want access to my money. 4. This was not a problem last year at the same bank.
What can I do when the DMV wants a SS card and the SS office wants a DL with correct name. Either way it seems like I am screwed! How can I go back to my maiden name????
Hi Anna. You need to get a duplicate/replacement SS card. Since you can't supply a driver's license, you'll have to provide an alternative identity document, such as a school or employee ID card, U.S. military ID, life insurance policy, or U.S. passport. You'll also need to bring in the original or certified copy of your birth certificate.
Hello, my daughter got married June 2008 and then divorced two months later. She took his name in marriage but never had it changed on her drivers license or ss card. After the divorce, she just went back to her maiden name without contacting the court. It does NOT stipulate that she may return to her maiden name in her dissolution papers. Now she is wondering if it was legal going back to her maiden name. She was married such a short time. Can she continue to use her maiden name or does she need to go through the name change process? She lives in Ohio incidentally. Thank you.
If she stated on her marriage documents that she intended to take her ex-husband's name but never actually did so, then she never actually changed her name. So, even in divorce, her current name is her maiden name. In that case, there's nothing to change.
You may want to suggest that your daughter contact the court clerk to have her divorce decree corrected/amended to reflect her actual name, which is her maiden name.
I'm looking for clarification on name change guidelines. I'll be getting married in Wisconsin but am a resident of California and will continue to live in CA after the wedding.
The guidelines around middle name change seem confusing for CA and since our marriage license will be issued by WI I'm not sure what to do. I'm considering taking my future husbands last as my middle and dropping my given middle name OR adding on his lastname as a second lastname. If I do the latter, will I always need to use both last names or just on formal documents?
You'll have to use both names on legal/formal documents. For non-formal circumstances, use your best judgment. For instance, if you're going to fill out a form that will likely attempt to cross-reference your name with a credit check, it's important for the names to match. When filling out a job application, background checks may be performed, so it's important for the names to match.
If I do want to change my middle name in California, will I need to petition the court or just go to SS and DMV?
Petition route.
Hi from ALASKA
Our marriage certificate states my maiden -married hyphen name ex. Tiffany Cooper-Allen. But I kept my maiden name Tiffany Cooper legally. Which name should be on my retirement / joint retirement / life insurance etc? My leagal name or my marriage certifcate name? My husbands doesn't know which name should be on these important documents.
Thank you for your time.
Tiffany
Legal name, since you haven't change it.
My wife was told by a Texas DMV representative that since she does not have a middle name it is required that her Maiden name be used as her middle name on her driver's license. We felt this was a security risk since maiden names are used by banks and other financial institutes to verify identity. (she has already been a victim of identity thief) Also, my wife does not want to use her maiden name as her middle name. Her SS card already states just her first name and her married name and that is it. How can include only her first name and her newly married name on her TX DL?
Texas Administrative Code (Title 37, Part 1, Chapter 15, Subchapter B, Rule §15.23 Names) references this:
I'm wondering if the bit at the end isn't being misinterpreted by the agent you saw. The three full names requirement would apply for someone who has a middle name, but didn't want to use their maiden name. But you're saying your wife doesn't have a middle name, so I don't see how the rule would apply to her situation.
Just to be clear, are you saying your wife doesn't have a middle name printed on her SS card, even though she actually has a middle name. Or she really has no middle name, going back to the birth certificate?
Regardless, I would try again and reference the administrative code above to see if it's truly applicable to your wife, considering she's never had (I'm assuming) a middle name.
hello,
I have a question, I had my u.S. citizenship interview on monday, my certificate has my maiden name. I got married in 2009 , in the marriage certificate im with my husband's last name, but I never used.
my question is .. can I take my husbands last name after 5 years of marriage? what do I need to do to change my naturalization certificate , SS, etc? i need to go to court? thanks
Hi Maggie. You can still change your name using the regular marriage name change process. You can use your marriage certificate to update your SS. You can contact USCIS about modifying your naturalization certificate.
I was married last August and have done my name change on everything but my soc. sec card and passport. I had submitted my taxes for this year and they came back rejected because I put my married name on the form (as that is what is on the W-2 from my employer) but it's rejecting it because my maiden name is what is on the soc. sec. card. Can I put my maiden name on the tax form even though my married name is what shows on the W-2?
The names must match. You'll need to contact your employer and have them issue you a corrected W-2.
Hello
I am a US Citizen and I married my wife in Vietnam. We got our marriage certificate which shows her maiden name. When she came to The United States, I took her to the Social Security Office. The person there said she had to take my last name and wouldn't let her keep her maiden name. They told me I need to change the green card name after. I want to know is it possible to change to maiden name again because there is no legal documents requesting a name change. I feel like I need to get a divorce to change her maiden name but I don't want to because I love my wife.
Thank You
Quan
Hi Quan. I feel like there's a missing piece of the puzzle here. What was the explanation for why they said she had to take your last name? Of course, anyone can change their name by going through the courts, but it's not clear that your situation merits that path. Please provide some additional clarification.
The Social Security person said that since she is married to you It is better for her to take my last name. I said to him that i want her to keep her maiden name but he kept on insisting. I decided to went with it because I thought it was a law. My mom and dad kept their maiden name. My dad took my wife back to the Social Security administration and they said they can't change it. I think because they had a problem with my out of the country marriage certificate.
Thank You
I got married last year and have not changed my SS card. I have changed my name on a few accounts and my DL. Is this ok? Can I continue changing my name without changing my SS card? I did read where it might cause a problem when I have to get my license renewed. Would it be best to just go ahead and change the SS card?
Thanks,
Amanda
When renewal time comes around, the DMV is likely to query the SSA database and find a name mismatch, which could result in problems renewing until you correct the discrepancy.
Yes, unless you want to go through the process of reverting to your prior name.
This is wonderful information-thank you! I am really stressing about what to do in my situation.
1. I had been married for 15 years and was hyphenated smith-jones. During this time my carreer took off and I have been published in a number of texts and have obtained my masters under Jones. I dropped off smith (maiden name) a long time ago.
2. Divorced but kept Jones for my kids sake and professionally all over bios/publications/ and is my identity. Although I hate being apart of Jones and giving my ex's family name credit for my accomplishments
3. Engaged to be remarried to an Italian man with a great last fun name- I was open to taking it completely, but professionally people are telling me to go back to my maiden name which sounds professional and is well respected. SO here is the real question: If I go back to my maiden name Carrie Smith and hyphenate his fun, but long name —- on my publications and documentations legally (as an advance practice nurse) can I sign only Carrie Smith. On Checks, and CC and life stuff can I be Carrie Funname OR Do I have to be hyphinated on everything with will be a nightmare.
Any advice is so appreciated..I am so confused and it sucks I am professionally established under Jones- but I have 30 more years to be re-established professionally. My Fiance is absolutely against me being Jones-Funname.
Not on legal-based documents. You'll have to sign your legal name.
On check's, your bank may allow flexibility if you explain the situation. For CC's it's more problematic. They'll want your name on your card to be your legal name. They'll want it to match the name on your credit report. There are identity theft issues as well.
Maintaining the name you've established over the years is the path of least resistence. Draw up a t-chart weighing the pros and cons, and that could decide it for you. If you must change your name, but need to maintain your established name for business purposes, you may want to consider registering your preferred name as a DBA and using it as you would a company name.
In terms of your nursing documents – ask whoever's in charge if you can "truncate" your name. As long as you're clearly identifiable you may be able to just use a part of a hyphenated last name.
If you'd like to maintain a credit card under your maiden name, contact the CC company – chances are they'd be OK with it. I've known cases where an individual maintains a CC under a truncated last name (as in your case), initials, middle name, and in my experience with transgender people even a case where one got a CC under her chosen name before it was legally changed. Remember any form of your name you use for credit purposes will be recorded as an AKA on your credit report (but in your case your maiden name would probably already be recorded on there, so for you this is a moot point).
Once again, contrary to what some assume, what is exactly your "legal name" is not cut-and-dried since "common law" permits (in many cases) individuals to assume another name as long as they're not being fraudulent. Of course others are not bound to recognize a non-ordered name change (even technically a name change from marriage if the license does not specifically state the name change, but for most heterosexual marriages it will in practice be universally recognized). You can often use an alternate version of your name as long as you're clearly identifiable, but if you want to significantly change your name (where there would be question that it's the same person) that's where you usually need a court order to be successful.
Kelly, thanks for chiming in with this potential workaround.
Hi! I would like to know how to change my name back to my maiden name. I was divorced 7 years ago but did not at the time change my name because I wanted it to stay the same as my children's. However, my children are older now and I miss my maiden name.
Someone once told me that since I didn't change my name with the social security office that I could just revert back to my maiden name with the dmv by bringing my birth certificate and social security card and having it changed. Is this correct or do I need to go through the formalities of changing it through the courts?
Hi Kim. Did your divorce decree have an order restoring your maiden name? If so, use that as proof of name change. Otherwise, the courts.
Actually, according to the SSA guidelines, they will allow you to revert to a maiden name (as shown on your birth certificate, you'll need that for proof) without any court papers IF you can obtain another form of ID under that name. In other words, if your state will let you update your DL/ID without a decree that orders the name change, you'll likely be good to go. If the state requires court papers to do the name change, then you'll need to do that. (This is a form of "common law name change" that I've described before.)
hello, i am a green card holder,i got divorced in December 2013 and married to a new guy in January 2014. my question is can i filled in for my new husband with my ex husband name on my green card,ssn or changed it to my new husband's name before filling for my new husband.thanks
Hi Misty. Not sure what you're getting at here. If the form is asking for your husband's name, you should specify your current husband.
Hello,
I moved from California to Texas…I never got the chance to change my last name when we got married. So when I moved to Texas I said that would be my opportunity to do so when I change my license. My husband has 2 last names because he is from Puerto Rico Rodriguez Barrios and we got married in California at the court house they asked me what I was going to go by and I put down Rodriguez because I don't need his mothers last name so when I when to switch my license at the DMV the lady told me that I had to by law pick up the Barrios Last name and I told her that's not what I was told plus I didn't get married in Texas I got married in California. So I wanted to know if I they can make me take the Barrios name if I don't want to…is a Law? I appreciate your response thank you
DMV is a state-level institution, so you'll have to abide by their guidelines. What may have been applicable in one state won't necessarily apply in another.
Hi, I am getting married this spring. I know it is uncommon, but is it possible to have my husband (to-be) 's surname as my middle name and keep my current last name?
FYI I do not have a middle name right now. So it is not a change but an addition.
I thought it is a great compromise solution to have both names,because I do not want to lose my name which I established my career on but at the same time it would be nice to have my husband's name incorporated officially. Many websites talk about having maiden name as middle name and husband's surname as new surname but could not find any resource for this idea.
Hi Mika. You wouldn't be able to accomplish this with a typical marriage-based name change. You'd have to go through the court for such a change.
hi
i got married 2years ago to a muslim. My name in my husbands passport is Heena .Now we just wanted my name in my husbands passport as Hema only . Kindly can you advice us how to go about.
Hi Hema. What country is the passport issued from? Are you looking to modify your first and/or last name?
Tax purposes. Am I still able to use my maiden name even though my name is hypnated? A lot of people told me either way.
Hi Tonicia. Some people will register their maiden name as a DBA, then use that to file their business-related taxes. If this is not your situation you'll need to use your legal name.
For federal tax purposes (and probably for state as well) the name on your tax form needs to match what is shown on your (current) Social Security card. So it'd be best to put your name down as such.
Hi i just got my permanent residence approved on it is my husband last name,i want to change my ss card name too but my problem is have been applying for jobs under my maiden name,am hoping some1 will employ me soon but what happens if they run my maiden name and they cant find my ssn on it should i wait till i get a job?secondly i dont want to wait coz i want my ssn to match with resident card coz am applying for a school loan?what should i do?
Hi Daisy. Could you contact the establishments you sent applications to and notify them of your upcoming name change? Provide them an addendum of some sort so that they're aware of the potential name difference? You should contact your school about your loan to determine which identification(s) they'll expect, accept, and will verify.
since i got married and just recently changed my name, i was curious.. is my maiden name still associated with my social security number?
If you haven't notified the SSA of your name change, then your SSN is still applied to your maiden name.
I love my maiden name and I recently just changed it to my married name at the SSA and at the DMV, but I'm having doubts about it now and would like to change it back to my maiden name. Is it possible?
Hi Marissa. As you've already changed it once, you'll have to petition the court to change it again.
So my wife and I got married last year, in another country. I have made things complicated. I changed my name legally, through the court, to my mother's maiden name after the wedding. What would be the easiest way to start to change my wife's name? Since the marriage license has my old name on it. Should we just go to social security and dmv with my deed from the court or do they need to see it on the marriage license?
Hi Brandon. Your own recommended course of action is a smart way to go about it. Your court document can be used to verify your identity.
I have a ? I was remarried over 11 years ago never change my name to his. But on my marrige License I use my maiden name not my current name i go by i still use my x husbands last name. But did not want my x husbands last name on my marrige license so I used my Maiden name.
But i want to change it to my current husbands last name since my kids from my x are older. So when i go down to get a new card my drivers license will have a different name than what is on my marriage license. Got remarried used my madien name on the marriage license but currently go bye my ex-husband's last name wanted to change to my current husband.. Confusing i know lol
Hi Armywife. You shouldn't face any issues. If necessary, you can provide documents detailing your maiden name, such as a birth certificate. The name you're planning to change to (your new husband's) is listed on the marriage document. So that's what'll be used as a reference.
I recently got remarried after being married to my first husband for 30 yrs. I did not change my name when I got remarried because I wanted it to be the same as my children. My question is am I only married on paper until I change my name and let SS know, do I need to do that before my marriage is validated and recognized?
Your marriage is valid. You don't need to do anything extra.
I've been married since February 2013, i have not changed my name on any documents expect the marriage license. My question is now that its tax time does social security automatically get the information about my marriage or do i need to report it before filing my taxes thank you
It's not automatic. You must report your name change to the SSA for your record to be updated.
hi Im wanting to apply for my first adult passport I was married but now divorced but kept my married surname but I know for the passport they want my birth certificate and that as my maiden name on do you know what documents I will need to send in with the birth certificate and how I get copies plz
Hi Amanda. You'll also bring in your driver's license and two recent 2×2 color photographs of yourself. You can go to most large-end drugstores and request some passport photos be taken. You can contact your local vital records office to get one or more copies of your birth certificate.
Hi, I am married for last 4.5 years now and we have a 3 year old son. I never wanted to change my maiden name after marriage and so did I stand by my decision. It was very obvious that my in-laws were against it but surprisingly even my parents were not very happy with this.
I didnot really face any major problem so far but today when I went to fill up an admission for in a well known school in Mumbai for my son they refused the application saying that Father's and Mother's surname differ. This is really disturbing for me. Can you please advice me what can be done and can I still apply for his admission with my maiden name.
On other hand I am also doubtful about sending my son to the school which does not respect basic rights of a human being or rather a woman.
Awaiting for your comments.
Thanks.
Nilambari
Hi Nilambari. Is this a policy of the school or government? Are they refusing entry due to the names not matching or because they don't have sufficient documentation verifying you're the parents?
Hi
I only have one name( diana) .im from refugee. I here in Canada at 2007 and I saw everybody has a last name, now I want to add my father name for my last name, his name is ( kyi sain) so I want to have my father name (sain) to become my lastname, it wil be possible?
In Canada, you can change your last name through the vital statistics office/agency.
When I came to Canada My age is two year older, when I call cic to fix is they say they need birth certificate but I told them that I'm from refugee n I don't have it, so what can I do?
What was their reaction when you notified them you weren't able to supply a birth certificate? Did they suggest an alternative form of documentation, such as a passport, school records/certificates, membership cards to political organizations or unions, or business documents?
Hi…..When I married I dropped my middle name and used my maiden name and husbands last name. Now I am divorced but still legally have my ex husbands last name. I want to re-marry. So, when applying for marriage license do I apply using name on my birth certificate or my married name? thank you
Married name.
Hi ..
what name does a divorced woman use when applying for a marriage license in Tunisia..my passport name or name on birth certificate
Hi Linkin. Use your current name.
I'm having a bit of an issue. My husband and I recently got married in Illinois but had to relocate to California soon after the wedding (so soon that I was not able to change my name at the DMV). My question is this- In Illinois, on your marriage certificate, they only put down your maiden name. My mother's maiden name was listed as was his mother's. In California they change your last name on the marriage certificate. I'm having a really hard time changing my name here (California) because they won't change it (legally) without a legal document that has my new last name. Well….I don't have any documents that have my new last name. Is there any way I can get around this besides filing a petition to get my name changed (this is a long and expensive process)? I have the legal marriage certificate and I've explained that Illinois doesn't change your name legally on the form…you do that by going to the DMV…but I haven't received much help. It wouldn't be such an issue but I need to change my last name for government related paperwork. Thanks.
Hi Emily. Update your social security card first. Once that's done, return to the DMV, as your SS record will now reference your new name.
I live in Missouri and am getting ready to get a passport. I have all documentation. My first husband passed away and when I married a second time, I kept my first husband's last name (as my middle name) on Social Security Card and Drivers License. My first husband and I had children together and I still wanted to have their last name. I am using my current husbands last name. So my name is
First name, First husbands last name, and then current last name–ex. Lucy Jones Smith.
My birth certificate has my given middle name which is Mary. Will I have to prove somehow where this middle name (jones) came from? (like that marriage certificate). Again my SS card and DL match, but my birth certificate has my true middle name. Does this matter when getting a passport.
Thanks
Not if that's what you previously changed it to. From their perspective, it's simply your middle name. Nothing more, nothing less. Once it's legally changed, its origin doesn't really matter.
It matters when completing the passport application, as there will be a spot for you to list previous names (e.g., birth, maiden, prior marriage). But it won't prevent you from getting a passport.
HI, I recently got married and just changed my last name. went to social security and the dmv the whole bit..however I was curious because I am currently on unemployment under my maiden name now.. does that affect my unemployment will i stop receiving it?
Hi Erica. It shouldn't be a problem. You can provide proof of your identity and name change with your marriage certificate. You may want to call your state's labor department and inquire if their database automatically syncs with SSA changes. If not, request details of what you need to do to update your record on file.
I am getting a passport for the first time, and after that getting re-married, Do I have to change my name on my passport
Thank you
No. If you later undergo a name change you can update your passport to reflect the change, if you so choose.
I had my name changed through my citizenship last September, since then I did not change any legal document (social security card, havent applied for passport, basically nothing has been changed at all). Now I am applying for a job I was thinking if I have to use my name Ive been using with my green card or the name I've changed it to? please help. thank you
Hi Anne. Green card's the principle document. You should update your social security card to match your green card.
Hi Valera,
I hope you can help me. I recently married and have decided to keep my maiden name.
For the family I married into, it is very unusual for a woman to keep her maiden name after marriage. My husband in particular is worried that in the future because I choose to keep my maiden name; we as a married couple will encounter problem upon problem and a lot of delay when dealing with any authority upon any matter in the UK. He also believes that when we have children we will have endless issues, and go through hoops and procedures, and a lot of hassle just to prove that we are married.
Will I have to continue proving to any authority in the UK, for the rest of my life that I am married to my husband if I keep my maiden name?
Will it complicate things in regards to paper work, procedure etc when we have children?
FYI: On my marriage certificate, my maiden name is documented. On my passport and all other official documents my maiden name is documented. The only action I have taken is to inform all authorities that I am now a Mrs as opposed to a Miss. And that is the only thing I have changed. Because I am currently pregnant; for our future child I intend to keep our child's last name as the father last name. So it really is only me that is "not part of the family unit", due to keeping my original name/surname.
Are these fears and worries of future complications true?
I have searched the internet and to this particular issue of mine have found no answers as of yet.
I think your worry is understandable, yet unnecessary. Your marriage certificate is sufficient to prove marriage.
No, it shouldn't be an issue.
I'm not sure what you mean by "authorities"?
Not really. Name change is optional. Various institutions understand this and accommodate it without issue.
I got married in 2010 and took my husband's last name. I changed my SSN card with my husband's last name but my maiden name shows as my middle name. I have not changed my DMV and Passport – it still has my maiden name. Can I continue to do this? My passport is due for renewa and I want to know if I can continue to use my maiden name? When my DMV renewal comes up , can I continue to use my maiden name? What kind of problems will I encounter for continuing to do this? Thank you for your advice.
Hi Mitch. Although it's possible for you to renew your passport and keep things as-is, it's a good idea to sync up your vital documents. For your driver's license, it's unlikely you'll be able to renew as there will be a name mismatch when they query the SSA database.
can i get new passport by using single? while before i get pasport but i use marriage now i want to get passport can i use single?
please help me? thanks
Hi Lei. Please clarify, as I'm not sure what you're referring to. You can get a new passport (assuming you've never received one before) or get an existing passport updated, regardless of martial status.
Hello, my name is faye, I have a question I just got married! Jan 4,2014 my full name is Faye Amanda Crouse but when I married I took Faye Amanda Crouse Garland, it's now only 2 weeks. Later! And I hate that my name is so long! I wanna drop my last name and just have his ! Faye Amanda Garland! The only thing I have changed was at the DMV! (License) Can I still go to dmv and change it ?? Or is that goin to be a problem?? Plz help me!
I also live in Nova Scotia
It can possibly be a problem. Something like this can vary by office or agent, so there's no definitive answer. They may not be willing to change it again based on the reasoning you laid out. You'll just have to inquire directly.
Hi,
I am getting married in about a month and I want to take my fiancé's last name as my new last name, but not right away. I am still in college and it would much easier for me to do it after I graduate. I am busy enough as is. But my question is can I sign (or "take") his last name on the Marriage license or Certificate if I'm not legally changing my last name yet? Or do I just sign my maiden name on the license? Also, if I do not change my last name, will it affect switching to his medical insurance and car insurance or anything related to that? We plan to rent an apartment too. My fiancé is also in the Military so I am not sure what their regulations are either. I just want to do what is easiest for now.
Thank you!
Yes.
No.
I have a question in regards to name change after marriage.
I got married in November. On the marriage license I changed my last name to my husband’s last name. I kept the middle name blank as I didn't have a middle name.
After submitting the license, I realized that I should have made my middle name as my maiden name since I have no middle name.
I wanted to know if updating my middle name to my maiden name will be considered an amendment and if I can request this change Vital Stats office.
No, name additions or modifications aren't considered applicable amendments. But you could always give it a try anyway. What have you got to lose?
hello,
i have one issue if passport name of husband which is correct but in marriage certificate their is a speeling mistake of maiden name is it probllematic for h4 visa please reply
Hi Priya. You can contact your local vital records office to have them amend your certificate (correcting the mistake). Afterward, they'll issue you a new certified copy.
After my divorce in 1991 my maiden name was legally restored but I continued to use my married name as my sons carried that name and I never changed my name on any other documents, i.e. social security, passport, etc. I now want to change my last name to my mother's maiden name. Do I have to legally change it from my former maiden name, which I never used, or can I simply change it from my married name, which I did use on all documents?
Thanks for your help.
Hi Dorothy. If there was an order in your divorce decree restoring your name to your maiden, but you never changed it on your documents, your name is still your married name. You'd change it from your married name.
Hi,
I was married in September and have not made any changes to my name. My husband really wants me to take his last name but knows that I'm not completely on board so we've sort of left it alone. We use his name when making reservations and the like but everything is still in my maiden name. My license is about to expire so I need to make a decision. Can I change my license and nothing else? (I feel like this could be a good compromise or a sign of good faith). Also, what is the difference between hyphenating and just adding his name ..for example: Elizabeth [middle] Cady-Stanton v. Elizabeth [middle] Cady Stanton? Can you still sign your maiden name if you don't hyphenate? Finally, does my passport need to match my license? I know all of this sounds chaotic, I guess I'm just looking to preserve a little bit of my name when and where I can. I have a hard time changing my name on my bank accounts and credit cards…
Your license renewal may be rejected if your name doesn't match what's on file with the SSA.
Just personal preference.
Yes, assuming your maiden name is still your last name. If you're referring to a spaced last name where yours precedes your husband's, you should sign your full last name for legal based documents. For other, less formal documents, you can use your maiden. Use your best judgment. If you're unsure, default to caution and use your legal name.
Depends on the usage. For travel, what's important is for your name to match your tickets. If you need to use your passport as a valid I.D., depending on what you're using it for, a name mismatch could result in the passport not being recognized.
Hi
I have a question i got married last year and decided to change my last name to my husband last name but I haven't gone to dmv and ss and all credit cards im still not ready to do the change yet. I want to get my citizenship but I want to keep my fathers last name on it after I do that can I still change my driver license to my husband last name even though my citizenship shows my dad's last name?
Hi Fabiola. If you're attempting to change the name on your license to something other than your legal name, it's not likely to go through.
Hi.
After I got divorced last year I had my married name changed back to my maiden name with the final judgement of the court order. However, I haven't started changing any of my documents yet: driver's license, passport, green card, etc. So would it be okay if I DIDN'T change my documents back to to my maiden name and wait until November (I am getting married again) and change my name to my new married name then? Or should I change it to my maiden name now and then again to my new married name in November?
Please advise.
Thank you.
Yes, you can wait to do it then.
Hi there.
I got married last February, took my husband's last name, & rather than keeping my last name as my middle name, I just kept my middle name. Now I am mourning my last name & want to keep it as my middle name, for myriad reasons. Can I do this through the "affadavit to amend marriage record"?
Thank you*
Unlikely. Such amendment requests are meant to correct errors or to add information to empty items. Name modifications, removals, or additions wouldn't be applicable.
If you search the Internet for "common law name change" you'll see that in many states assuming another name via consistent usage is not illegal – unless you're doing it for fraudulent purposes, as Valera said. (If that weren't the case then entertainers who go by a stage name or authors who write under a pen name differing from their legal name would be breaking the law!) Nonetheless, especially these days with all the identity theft going on, you'd have a lot of resistance with changing legal documents this way – since unlike a court order other parties (including government agencies) aren't bound to honoring a change via usage alone (and that's why for example after a divorce you typically need the decree to specify the name change).
The "common law" technique works best when you're still clearly identifiable as the same person, like singing using a nickname or other variant form of your first name or going by your middle name or initials – I've known quite a few people who've done that (there's generally less flexibility with last names – apart from for example truncating a hyphenated name you usually need documentation to change to something different). The important point is that you remain consistent since flip-flopping will cause people to maybe think you're doing something fishy. At least when it comes to credit reports, each "version" of your name you use for those purposes will be recorded as an "alias" and show as such on your credit report (just like those who've changed their name because of marriage/divorce or other reasons).
In fact, except in the cases where a marriage license actually dictates what the name should be changed to, a woman changing her last name to her husband's is just a near-universally accepted form of name change via usage. (As a side-note, for those who are in same-sex marriages or other unions, that fine point will likely make the difference as to whether or not states that don't recognize the marriage/union must still recognize the name change – if the document states that the person in question's name is changed to such-and-such vs. no notation as to the name change desired and relying on assumption.)
my x-wife never change her last name to mine she just always used it, now we are divorced and she still uses my last name is that legal ?
Depends on the usage. Probably not, if it's an informal sort of thing. On the other hand, if the usage delves into fraud or attempting to avoid certain debts, it could be an issue.