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 PA in October 2017. I have a professional license in my maiden name and have been working in my field for over 9 years. I have not yet done anything to change my name.
I want to know if I am able to add my husband's last name to my name and still just use my maiden name for professional purposes or if I have to update that license to list both of our last names (and use them in the professional setting) once I legally change it with SS and DMV.
Would I then have to update everything else – bank, credit cards, utilities, mortgage, etc. of the name change and use both last names when signing legal documents?
If you undergo a legal name change, you'll have to notify the entity that issued your license to determine if they'll require a reissue with your full name or if your prior name can continue to be used.
You'll have to inquire with your employer if you'll be able to use a professional alias.
If you update the SSA and DMV, you might as well update everything else.
Yes, you'll want to apply both last name when signing legal paperwork.
Hello, I got married 30 years ago in Washington, DC and took on my husband surname. My license, passport, social security etc all states husband surname. This year, I decided to change my middle name and maiden name on my birth certificate as it now reflects my fathers surname (Walker) instead of my sisters fathers surname (Kennedy). I was married with the maiden name (Kennedy) and would like to amend my marriage certificate to reflect the correct maiden name of (Walker). Is this something I need to do? I already changed my SS information and will change my license and passport soon.
Hi Sonji. Such marriage certificate amendments aren't allowed.
Is it valid to retain my maiden name in our marriage certificate and in all other documents once married to a US citizen? I will not be using my husband surname at all.
Yes, it's fine.
Hello,
Lets say my maiden name is Sarah Barnow and I married Daniel Gold. I never legally changed my name but when I got pregnant, my husband put me under his insurance as Sarah Gold (they did not ask for proof of this).
Eventually, I had to open a hospital file as Sarah Gold (to match the insurance docs). I had my baby a few months back and the mother's name on the hospital issued birth certificate is Sarah Gold as there was no provision for either married name or maiden name.
I intend to legally change my name to Sarah Gold eventually but the problem is right now I'm not sure I can prove that I am my baby's mum (in visa application) since Sarah Gold does not legally exist and even if I change the name today, the name dint exist when my baby was born.
So, do I ask that my hospital file and Baby's birth certificate be changed back to Sarah Barnow? I am really confused.
You can have both records corrected. It's not a big deal. You'll want to contact your vital records office and hospital for their precise procedures and whatever documents they'll need.
Typically, you'll just need to compile the necessary identity documents, including your birth certificate. Your marriage certificate can also be used to explain the name discrepancy and bridge the gap. Certificates should be originals or certified copies.
Thank you Valera.
If I decide to leave my baby's BC as it is (with Sarah Gold), will I have any issues proving that he is mine while I am still Sarah Barnow, especially during visa applications? Will my Marriage certificate, which does not have any 'married' or 'new' name (just my maiden and husband's full name- Daniel Gold) written on it be sufficient?
I intend to legally become Sarah Gold when my passport and driver's license expire in a couple of months.
Hi Sarah. If push comes to shove, you'll be able to verify your identity with plenty of supporting documentation, so it's not as though you'd be facing a scenario with no possible resolution. When you do eventually change your name, all documents will be in sync.
Thank you very much Valera.
Yes .. Go get your live long form hard book copy from county of your birth. If it is all proper names.. Authenticate,it in your birth state. Then go to probate and take back your full name at birth.. The name that is protected ?
Hi, I got married 2 weeks ago and want to change my last name, but as a newly health professional, do I need to keep my maiden to match with my certificates? Is there somehow that I can end up with only 1 last name that won’t be too complicated with paperwork?
Example: I am Mélissa Beaulieu and married Jacob Hambrook. I want to be known as Mélissa Hambrook, but would it be smarter to keep Mélissa Beaulieu-Hambrook ?
(I am not a fan of the double last name due to document signing)
Hi Mélissa. I don't see it making much different. Either name change would require the same amount of paperwork and effort. You should choose whichever you prefer.
Hi I got married 2016, I got my new ssc with first name married-maiden. Is this incorrect? The DMV wouldnt issue me a driver's license until I correct my last name to first, maiden-married. I live in Ohio.
Hi Jennifer. The DMV operates on a separate track from the SSA. You can request the DMV produce documentation that mandates their demanded surname sequence. If they're unable to produce it, you can request again (with greater standing) that your name change be properly processed.
I got married in Hawaii in 2015 while I was in the military and decided that I wasn't going to change my name until after I separated from the military. The clerk doing my liscense said to put my choosen name, or "after marriage name" to whatever I would use immeidately following my wedding, so I put my maiden name. Now that I am out of the military and we are expecting our first child I am thinking about going through the name change process, because I want my child to have the same last name as me. If I choose to keep my maiden name on my marriage liscense in 2015, can I still use that liscense and follow the typical name change process, or do I need take extra steps since I chose my maiden name on the liscense instead of the married one? If it makes a difference I live in Maryland now.
Hi Kodi. You'd go through the regular marriage name change route of changing your name, which doesn't involve the courts.
I have not yet changed my last name to my husband's last name (I have been delayed due to travel out of the country, etc.) However, my mom (and aunt) quickly updated my name on their legal documents ("pull to plug" form and will – I am also power of attorney for her and my aunt). They put my name as follows in their documents: First name, Maiden name, Husband's last name
I am definitely going to continue going by my maiden name for work, even if I do legally change it, because I have an established career. And I totally don't mind if people call me by his last name – but it is just a pain in the butt to do! Especially when you're older with an established career, etc.
That said, if something happened to my mom or aunt say tomorrow – would the difference in last names be an issue? Is this something I need to legally change/rectify asap?
Thanks!
That's doubtful, as you should be able to provide supporting identity documents to bridge any gaps, such as your birth certificate and marriage certificate.
Thank you!
I just got married at city hall in New York. In the moment I decided to keep my maiden name. Now three days later I’m wishing I had at least hyphenated my maiden name and my husbands last name. Is it too late to add his name? Since we married at city hall they gave us the certificate the same day.
Yes, they're highly unlikely to allow a change on the marriage certificate unless they made a mistake.
I am getting married this year (in PA) and would like to change my name (SSC, etc..) to my husband's name, but I am also a licensed Nure Practitioner with 25 years of practice under my maiden name. Can I keep my m,aide name on my license but change my legal name to my married name? How does that work with payroll?
Hi Brenda. This is entirely up to your state's licensing board and employer. For your license, you can inquire if they'll allow the use of your maiden name on your license as an alias.
I got married under my old full name now I have changed my full name and seeking divorce..so is my marriage void if that's not my name anymore?
Hi Brendon. Your name doesn't impact the validity of your marriage.
Ok so a while back I gotten a divorce, my SS card has my ex married name on it, i went by my mother's maiden name before my first marriage, then later changed it to my father's last name, but didn't apply for a name change yet, it's still under my ex married name. Now I'm remarried and want to change it to my new husband's last name. What documents will I need?
Hi Chanalaya. That'll just be a regular marriage name change. You'll need a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
Hi I’m getting married in NY in a few weeks and am struggling with the name decision. I will be taking over my family business in the future and it is important to me to be able to use my madien name for business but I was hoping to take my future husbands as well. Is it possible to change my name to Jane Doe Smith and use Doe professionally and Smith for legal documents (SS card, drivers liscence, etc). What is the best course of action to keep my maiden name for business but still have some connection to his name as well?
A DBA in your maiden name would be a good option.
Hi, I recently got the green card as a USA citizen’s wife and they put my husband’s last name, my Social Security Name is with my maiden name and I want to get a driver license or ID, I really want to use my maiden name on the driver license or ID because I plan to study and would like those certificates with my maiden name, is this possible?
Hi Cecilia. The driver's license office will likely want to see your social security card and green card. If there's a name mismatch, it could cause a problem processing your request.
Hi, I was married 37 years ago. The marriage didn't work out and I was able to afford getting a divorce, so i did the next best thing, started using my maiden name. I never changed it legally, but systematically started using it on everything, banks, credit cards, government papers, income taxes etc. No one, and I mean no one has questioned it. But now i may have to sign a document reversing a decision on a matter that I signed 36 years ago while I still under my married name and i don't know what to do without it possibly undoing everything I've accomplished under my maiden name. Note: I never did remarry.
Sorry, there is a misspell" I wasn't able to afford a divorce" is what I meant to say.
Hi Lorrie. Assuming you're referring to a contract or legal document, you should consider contacting an attorney to determine if your signature at the time is going to cause a present day conflict.
Hi,
I got married on Jan 2016 in NY. I opted for name change to my husband's last name on my marriage certificate but I never made the change in anything else. I know feel like I would just like to keep my maiden name. I am about to renew my passport and change my drivers license and I am going to be keeping my maiden name. My question is, is it going to be an issue for me to keep my maiden name on my passport, SSI, License etc because I opted for name change of the marriage certificate? Also, how can I go about opting out of name change on my marriage certificate?
Thanks!
No, it won't be a problem.
There's nothing to opt out of. Changing your name isn't obligatory, regardless of what's on your certificate.
Apologies if this question has been posted already.
My wife and I got married in November of 2017 in NYC. She didn't pick the option to have her name changed at the time and our marriage certificate has her maiden name on it. She now wants to change her name. What is the best course of action?
Get remarried and elect to change the name on the new application?
Petition the civil court? If we choose this option, will we have to get a new marriage certificate to reflect her new name after the civil court approves it?
If available, that would be a good option.
This is likely your only option.
No.
I just recently got married and I have changed my ss# but have not been to the Dmv. I need to get my passport ASAP. Can I bring my marriage certificate with my new ss card and my Valid ID ? My valid ID has my name before marriage.
Hi Glenda. Yes, you can use those documents to change your name. You don't need your SS card though.
I got married on april and now i need to submit may adjustment of status and working permit to USCIS ican i still used my maiden name to the USCIS documents??? Thank you
Yes, as name change is optional after marriage.
You have already commented on this above, but I am wondering about the specifics in Texas. I got married in December and switched my maiden name to a second middle name and took my husband's name as my surname in January, both on my SS card and DL. I am having a change of heart (especially as my company will no longer accept my maiden name as my professional name) and wish to change my my surname to include both my maiden name and husband's last name (no hyphen). In Texas, do you know if this requires a court order through the county clerk, or can I simply change it at the SS office? Thank you.
You'll have to get a court order through the county courthouse and not the county clerk.
Hi,I got married a year ago. The only documents I changed were the marriage certificate, and I jointly with my husband on his bank account. Those are the only places that I have my maiden last name changed. SS, Passport, driver license, Green card have my maiden name. I am thinking to fly out of the country first week of July. Would I be able to fly with my maiden name?
Yes, you'll be able to travel. Make sure the name on your ticket is in your maiden name.
I recently got married and requested to take on my husband's last name. I plan on changing my name on my SSC to his last name, and also updating my DL after the name change also. Do I have to tell my bank, employer, car insurance company, and county tag office about my name change? Or can I keep it a secret as long as my old DL isn't expired?
Many of these institutions will query databases for your social security number, which will result in a name disparity with what they have on file. You may be setting yourself up for some headaches down the road by changing your name on your principal identity documents and nothing else.
I live in Broward County, FL. I got divorced in 2011 and court granted me the right to go back to my maiden name which I never did because of all the hassle with SS. I am now engage and planning to get married in a couple of months, can I still use my id with my ex's last name to get married? would it be a legal marriage since I never changed my name? can I be penalized because I never went back to my maiden name? Can I choose to take his name when we get married and then decide if I really want to do it without getting into any legal trouble?
Yes, you can use your ex's last name, as it's still your legal last name.
Yes.
No, definitely not.
Yes, there wouldn't be any legal problems for not having changed your name back then.
Hi!
If I choose to have two last names after getting married, is there additional paperwork that I have to do if I choose to keep my maiden name professionally?
Thank you!
Hi Mary. Assuming you're able to obtain two last names through a marriage name change, maintaining your maiden name is an entirely separate matter. You could look into registering a "doing business as" in your maiden name for professional purposes.
Thanks for responding Valera!
I work in the healthcare profession and wanted to keep my maiden name. What happens if I don't notify them that I added an additional last name? I thought the pro of having two last names was that you can use them interchangeably? For paperwork wise, is it easier to have my maiden name as a middle name as opposed to having it as one of TWO last names?
Many state boards (or equivalent) require the name on your personnel records to be up-to-date. If you're going to skirt those rules, you'll have to deal with whatever consequence arises.
Perhaps you can switch between them informally or during social settings, but you'll only have one legal last name.
If you're changing your last name, it doesn't really matter. You'll still have to update all your credentials.
I got married back in 2010 signed marriage certificate with his las name but never changed it with ssn But my Iicence is with my maiden name and my passport and my car registration and insurance is with my “married” last name! Can I get in trouble for this? What needs to be done ?
Although you won't get in trouble, you may be setting yourself up for headaches and inconveniences by having so many of your credentials split between names.
Hi,
I got married last year. At the time we put his last name on the marriage certificate… but I love my maiden name and would like to keep it.
I have not changed my SSC, drivers license, or any of my financial names to the married last name. But I need to get a new drivers license soon. Since I haven’t changed my SSC can I just keep going with my maiden name? Is there a time frame I have to change my SSC by?
Yes, of course.
No, there is no time limit.
I've been married 3 months ago, do I need to change my passport from maiden name to his surname ? Is it not difficult for me when travelling abroad using my maiden name if ever?
Hi Angie. You're not obligated to change your passport.
I recently got divorced and went from my married name to my maiden name. My ex spouse and I all hypothethically still living together and he is paying my health insurance benefits for the rest of this month. Can I still use my married name for them?
Your insurance company should have your current legal name on file.
Hello there! Great article :)
I am licensed with many insurance companies and have my online reputation built up under my maiden name Alicia Lenae Smith. I got married last year (Clark) and we are expecting our first child June 22, 2018~! YIKES! I want to change my name but am worried about all the cost of getting re-credentialed with insurance companies (they will hold my billing and could take months) . Also, my license states Alicia Smith as well as all my credit cards, accounts,etc. I have a business set up as Smith Health and Wellness already. What do you suggest I do?
Alicia Leane Smith- Clark
Alicia Leane Clark
Alicia Smith Clark – drop middle name?
Please help!
Hi Alicia. First, you'll have to decide if you'll ultimately undergo a legal name change or just choose to take on your spouse's name informally, in social settings. If you choose to do the latter, you wouldn't have to change anything.
If you do choose to undergo a legal name change (the name combination doesn't matter), you may want to look into registering a DBA in your maiden name: Alicia Lenae Smith or Alicia Smith. You'll have to contact your licensing agencies to determine if you can be credential as your DBA or if they'll allow an alias. It's possible they'll just need to update their internal records without having to issue you new documents.
How do I sign the marriage certificate if I may keep my maiden name or decide to go with his last name and still don’t know the day of the wedding.
Hi Linda. You wouldn't sign the marriage certificate until after your marriage ceremony has concluded. By the way, in some states the couple doesn't even sign the certificate. If this isn't what you're referring to, please clarify.
Hello,
I was married in 2006 and divorced in 2010. I never changed my last name for any organization or on the marriage license. Have always been first name, birth last name. I am completing paperwork for a background check. Do I need to list my ex-husband's last name as an additional name? I called their help line and they wouldn't give me a straight answer, just list any name you've ever gone by. Please advise!
No, just your birth name.
I am a tax professional who was required to get a TIN for my business, which is connected to my maiden name. I just got married and was wondering if I can take my husband's name, but keep my maiden name on all my professional related areas?
Hi Robin. Yes, you can continue using your maiden name for business purposes. Have you looking into registering a DBA?
Hello I have been married for 14 years and I hyphenated my maiden name with my husband’s last name..I have changed my SS to my hyphenated name as well as my passport.. I also file my taxes married..I never changed my name to the hyphenated name at the DMV (New York). It is almost time to renew my license can I renew with just my maiden or Do I have to use my hyphenated name on my renewal? I still just use my maiden name for some credit cards, car insurance and my professional business. Is it okay use both my hyphenated name for some affairs and just my maiden name for other affairs?
The DMV might or might not query the SSA database for a name match/mismatch. If they do, you'll have to use your hyphenated name. If they don't, you can use your maiden.
Sure, as long as you use them in the proper context.
We live in Texas. My fiance and I are about to get married. Each of us are previously divorced. Her driver's license and legal documents still have her old married last name, but in her divorce decree she was granted her maiden name back. Does she need to update her driver's license before we get a marriage license?
No, she does not need to update her driver's license before applying for another marriage license.
Hello,
Quick question: I married, changed my name with SSA, updated my license and all other documents, then 3 months later the marriage was voided by the state. Is my ex-spouse's last name still my legal name or am I required to switch back to my maiden name?
Hi Julie. If your marriage was annulled, you can optionally revert to your prior name.
Hi,
I need to renew my passport which is in my maiden name. My Social Security card has my married name. I would like to renew my passport in my maiden name as I have continued to use that name for all credit cards and frequent flyer miles programs.
Can I renew the passport with my maiden name?
Yes, you can. For future travels, you'll want to make certain the name on your airline tickets matches the name on your passport.
There is a question on the passport application asking "Has your name changed since your most recent document was issued?"
Since I am renewing my passport in my maiden name which is the same name as my old passport do I answer 'No" to this question?
Again, I have changed my name on my Social Security card to my married name but I would like to renew my passport in my maiden name.
You'd answer no, as you're choosing not to change it on your passport.
I changed my married last name to the last name of my first husband. Now, all i want is my maiden name and no more 'husbands" names. My maiden name is on my drivers license before married name
Can I do that automatically or do I need paper work?
Hi Sharun. Unless you have a divorce decree which contains an order restoring your maiden name, you'll have to petition the court to go back to your original surname.
Hello, I am going to be married later this year, am 52 and have had my maiden name all my life except for a year due to a prior marriage/divorce. My son has my maiden name. I would like to use my new husband's name in some instances but still use my maiden because of my son, who has two more years of high school. After he is out of school I would probably just use married name. How should I handle this at the time of the marriage application? Should I just put both last names and then drop using one? I'm confused even after reading all of the comments. I live in Ohio.
Hi Deb. If the marriage application provides a spot to specify a new name after marriage, enter your married name. It doesn't bind you to this choice, but preserves the option to change it later, if you so choose.
Hi there! I got married February. On the marriage certificate I said I was to take his surname. I have not changed my name on any other document- Social, Drivers license, etc. When I went to my bank she asked for my wedding certificate, as we were opening a joint account, and I hadn’t realized she’s open the account with his last name. They told me that because I signed I was to take it legally I am his last name now, but I was under the impression unless I changed with social security I was my maiden name. Am I 50/50 last names now or how does that work? No one can seem to give me a positive answer, only assumptions.
Hi Laura. It's possible you simply encountered an employee who's mistaken in interpreting the strictness of their bank's rules. Your legal name is your maiden name. It's what's on your social security card, existing credentials, credit report, etc. You can return to your bank and request a correction.
I've been married for 9yrs. and never took husband last name. I lost my green card and replaced it with only his last name.But now my question is, can i go to the ssa and add his last name with mine? i would like to have both last names but dont want to have a problem when i travel.
Hi Maria. Yes, you should be able to change your name with a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
help with this one…..I am divorced. I haven't changed my name yet because of being an elementary teacher and my son seemed a little upset when I mentioned of changing my name. However, Both of my parents passed last year and I feel very compelled to re-claim my birth name. What could I do to add in my birth name so it becomes hyphenated? & do I have to use both in all situations? they are both really long names. uuughhh….struggling with this decision. any advice???
You'd have to obtain a court order for this.
1. Legally change your name, but use your married or maiden name name informally.
2. Do not legally change your name, but use your maiden or married name informally.
The latter approach will allow you to experiment before committing to a court petition.
OK so I have a question I got married I took his last name and mine now that we're devore's on the papers I put that I didn't want his name but he hasn't sent me the papers do I have to by law change my last name now or can I just leave a like that and keep his last name
Hi Cynthia. You can do either: keep his last name, or go back to yours.
My name is currently first middle married. I am legally divorced for three years now, but I have kept my married name for the child I have which I hear I can not change her last name without the other parents approval even though I have full decision making/custody. I am starting work in the same field as my ex and do not want to be associated with him. Can I use any last name I want or even my maiden name as a minimum? I am in hiding from my ex and it would be great to keep that privacy.
That would be up to your employer, although they'll have to file taxes in your legal name.
I was divorced in 2008 and kept his last name. Then remarried to someone else in 2012 but didn't change name yet for my kids. I now want to change my last name but back to my maiden name. What decree to submit, divorce decree or marriage certificate? And what is the best order to change name at my office? First social security, driver license, passport, then at the work place then rest of other institutions? Thank you.
You can use your divorce decree if it includes language that restores your maiden name.
Social security first, then the others can be done in any order or simultaneously.
So, I got married in '96 and legally changed my name with my maiden name and hyphenated my husband's last name. We divorced in 2000 and I was released to change my name but I didn't do so through SSI. I remarried in '04 and only used my maiden name. My question is was my marriage in '04 legal?
Yes, it was.
Hello, i am in NJ and getting married soon. Do you know if its legal in the state of NJ to create a new last name that both me and my fiture husband can keep? I dont want his last name and he doesnt want mine, but we want to have the same last name! Help!
Through marriage? No. Through a court petition? Yes.
Im guessing the court petition would have to be done after we do get married?
It can be done before or afterward.
I recently got married and I just added my husbands last name. I still sign my forms with my maiden name. Im in the process of getting my license renew. My question is do i need to notify the DMV or may i just keep it as it is?
Hi Biance. You should notify the DMV. They may even attempt to query the SSA database to confirm your current name, so they may be aware of your name change without you even bringing it up.
I haven't done any changes with SS, banks etc. pretty much everything is still the same with my information. Would I have to make changes? Because i added my husbands last name
In that case, no. If your intention to change your name to you husband's is only shown on the marriage certificate, then you can ignore it and change nothing.
Hi there my name is cecilia got married in 1996 my husband passed away in 2002 we were still married when passed away,his family ill treated me after that,im using my husband surname now but i want to use my maiden name now,what can I do
Hi Cecilia. You'd have to petition the court to legally restore your maiden name.
Hello, I got married 8 yrs ago in NV. I changed everything to my husband's last name since I got the Green Card. Now, i want to get my maiden name back and add a middle name. Will I need to file a court order for this change? I am going to travel to my country next month. Do I need to get a new passport first with my maiden name before I travel?
Thank you.
Yes.
No, but your tickets must be booked to match the name in your passport.
Hi Valera,
So I am getting married in MA. Can I have the marriage certificate be First Maiden HisLast but just leave everything else as is?
Essentially I am not sure what i want to do, so if I were to change it on the marriage license next month, I can leave everything else as it is currently? If in 5 years I decide, I can just go ahead with the SS and all that?
My passport renews in 2019, for example. So I would just renew it as my current name until I choose to take his name?
Thanks so much… I am sure this is a simple topic for you but I just want to be sure ;)
Yes.
Yes, you could renew your passport in your current name while maintaining the option to change it to your husband's down the road.
Hello
My offic surname n bank account name is my maiden name but my adhar surname is both surname like ashvarya Rai bucchun. I m asking just this is right for my future.
Hi Vibha. The name on your aadhar card should match the name on your bank account.
Does a Florida marriage certificate have the space for the new married name? And if yes, does it allow for the wife to be FIRST MAIDEN MARRIED?
and finally, from reading many of your previous q&a, did i correctly understand that even if the marriage certificate says FIRST MAIDEN MARRIED, i wouldn't have to legally change any documents and therefore while being legally married, use new married name socially, yet keep all legal documents with current name (first mi maiden)?
No.
Yes, this name combination is allowed.
Correct.
I'm confused. If the FL marriage license, certificate doesn't have the space for the new married name, where do you record the new married name? What is actually on the Florida marriage certificate?
Hi Cindy. The marriage certificate as-is permits you to change your name.
Hello. I've been widowed for ten years and would like to return to my maiden name. My concern is that all legal documents for the last 32 years – our children's birth certificates, home, cars, life insurance, etc. were signed with my married name. If I change my name legally will all those documents and certificates be compromised? In other words, would I have to re-sign all of these legal docs with my maiden name to show ownership of mortgage, policies, etc. in the event I wish to sell my home or car or…? Would my children have difficulty filing a beneficiary claim when I die?
No.
No.
No, as they should have no problem confirming your identity.
Me and my husband have been separated (not legally) for 8 years. We have a child who is about to be 9. He hadn't been a part of her life unless it is convenient for him. Me and my daughter have moved to another state, and she has no want to see or be in contact with him. I am trying to get a divorce from here and I have many messages from him saying I can have full custody and he will sign is rights over. Then he turns around and says he doesn't want to. I want this divorce and want to move on with me and my daughter. Idk where to turn! Any suggestions?
Hi Echo. You should consult with an attorney within your state. Was there something name-related you were also concerned with? Such as your changing your child's name?
I live in Missouri and was married in Colorado about 7 months ago. At the time I was undecided on what to do about my last name. I have since decided that I would like it to be first middle maiden married. Are 2 last names without hyphens legally recognized? And if I’m not mistaken, i believe I just need to take my marriage certificate to the social security administration to start the name change, correct?
Hi Christi. I don't believe that combination would be supported without a court order.
Hello, I really need this questioned answered I got Married 7 months ago I have not changed my name in Drivers license or anywhere else , I have never taken out a passport planning to go out the country to Mexico in a few months do I have to change my name before I can get a passport
No, you can get your new passport in your current, pre-marriage name.
Hi! So I got married in November. Bc of my higher ed / accomplishments I wanted to go by my maiden professionally or hyphen. When we signed the license I signed it was new name “maiden-married” well whirlwind of a cross country move for his job. And then I got a job as a contractor for gov – I had to be rushed to make a “business entity” in my name- so I did it all in my maiden since I haven’t done anything with social security yet.
We already filed our taxes for 2017 w no problems. But looking forward – and especially w future kids or mortgage and social security benefits in way future… do I need to change my name w social security or just unofficially go by “maiden-married” ? (For example when have kids and sign birth certificate will it make it invalid if I sign maiden-married but not changed at social security? ) ?
If I change with social security will it affect my contract position or my business entity if it is registered still with my maiden name since my new name will have my maiden name still in it and it’s the same number ?
Name change isnt' perfunctory just because a new name is cited on your marriage certificate.
No.
It wouldn't affect either negatively. You can update the name on your business entity (DBA?) to reflect the name change.
I was married in Michigan in 1976 (way before computers) and changed my name to my husband's with Social Security, but not my driver's license or any other documents. Within a year, I "missed" my pretty maiden name and so resumed using it.
But I never told Social Security of the change back.
In 1979 we moved to Massachusetts, where I have ONLY been known by my maiden name, having turned in my Michigan driver's license (that had my maiden name on it) for a Massachusetts license. My license, my passport, my tax returns, my medical records, by financial transactions, my will and health proxy . . .even the court adoption for our son from Bogota, Colombia, in 1989, all are in my maiden name.
Seeing as how I am turning 65 in 1919, I decided I'd better correct my name with Social Security, but much to my surprise that, unlike "the old days" when doing such things were much more lax, I have been told that they cannot change it back without a court order name change. (They were surprised that I had gone for so long without being "flagged" somewhere along the way!)
I have no idea what Massachusetts is going to say to requesting a "change," since THEY'VE ONLY KNOWN ME BY MY MAIDEN NAME!
Do you think it would be worthwhile to file a review of my case to Social Security, seeing as how I have been so long and with such a firm (and rather convincing, I think!) "paper trail" of my identity being my maiden name . . . Or should I just bite the bullet and see what the Massachusetts court system says to "Hey guys, I need a name change!"
Court orders to reinforce the legality of a current name may seem curious, but is not an unusual circumstance.
You could give it a try, but you'll likely wind up right where you started.
The court wouldn't scoff at your request. They'll process your name change petition just like any other.
Hi I got married for my green card and on my marriage certificate I add his last name to mines as gladden-Anderson and my working permit and Social came back as Anderson so my question is will it affect me from getting a ID what should I do
Hi Kenisha. If you've only specified the hyphenated name on your marriage certificate while all your identity documents are only in his last name, then your subsequent ID's would just be in the non-hyphenated name as well.
Hi, My fiance and I are getting married in May. I am planning to add on his name instead of hyphenating it.
Ex. My name is Kayla Brown and his name is Luke Smith, so my new name would be Kayla Brown Smith.He is planning on taking my name too but in the reverse: Luke Brown Smith.
Because I am not hyphenating it, do I still have to change my name on all of my documents? We are doctors and I really don't want our medical licenses and degrees changed.
We wanted to know if it were possible to make this change on the marriage license only. Would he still be able to go by just Luke Smith everywhere else??
I hope this isn't too confusing!
If you're going to legally change your name, your documents should be updated to reflect the change.
They may not change visually, but the licensing boards will have outdated information.
Space-separated name changes aren't typically supported using a marriage record. You'll likely have to opt for a court-petitioned name change.
Informally.
Can I use my maiden name in my passport if my government id is already with my married name? Its my 1st time to get a passport.
Hi Genalyn. You'll have to use your current legal name for your first time passport.
Hello,
I recently got married in CA (11/2018). My marriage Certificate reflects:
FIRST MAIDEN MARRIED
I have not changed my name anywhere – All of my documents (Passport, SS, DL, Bank, etc.) still remain as: FIRST MIDDLE MAIDEN
I would like to change my name to reflect (on SS/DMV/PASSPORT):
FIRST MIDDLE MAIDEN MARRIED
Will I need to file a court order for this change? Can I start using FIRST MIDDLE MAIDEN MARRIED?
Thank you.
Yes, you would.
Hi –
I got married at city hall this week and listed my husband's name as my new name. I'm not feeling very attached to my old name and not sure I want to give it up! That said, we're moving to Switzerland in a few months for work and have to get the visas processed soon. Do I have to change my SSN, Passport etc to match the name on the license? Or can I leave it as is? I've heard the Swiss are sticklers for paperwork, so not sure how thorough they'll be.
I'm ***now** feeling very attached… bad typo :)
You do not have to change the name on your social security card or passport to match your marriage license/certificate. You can leave it unchanged.
They will not be concerned that you chose no to change your name to match what's on your marriage record.
Hello,
I want to keep my father's surname(A) after marriage but my surname was changed to my husband's surname(B).Me and my husband are together. I want my father's surname back for different reasons.
Is it possible to change my surname to my father's surname(A).If possible what is the procedure.
Please help me I am in need.
Hi Sanjana. If you've already formally changed your name, you'll have to petition the court to change it back again. You can review the court ordered name change article that discusses the procedure.
Hi! I changed my last name in 2013 to my son's Dad's last name. But is it possible to change it back to my maiden name? My Dad wanted me to pursue college and he wants me to graduate using his last name. And it is his last request for me since he has been sick and weak. Please help.
Hi Marian. You'd have to pursue a court-ordered name change to change your name again.
I have couple Questions:
1. My husband is Latino and he has two last name (paternal and maternal) his birth certificate has both last name . Some documents have both last names and some only have the paternal last name . Our marriage certificate he used his birth name ( with the two last name ) From what i know in the U.S we only recognize one last name correct ? So can I change my last name to just his paternal last name ? He wants or family as in me and our kids to just carry the one last name . If it’s possibke to just use his paternal last name would we have an issues such as buying a home or anything else if his under two last names and I’m just under his one last name ?
Second question:
Say I file my 2017 taxes under my maiden name because at the time of filing I was still under my maiden name but say I just recently changed my last name (last week) on my SS card to my married name , Would i have an tax issues?
You'd typically have to take both, although a few states will allow you to take just a portion.
It's possible, but it's usually resolvable. A financial organization may require additional identity verification.
It could result in a delay. If the tax office isn't able to resolve your name mismatch internally, you'll be contacted to make a correction.
Do you know if the state of NJ would take one last name only ?
Hi Mia. No, I don't believe it is supported.
I’m married (for 3 years now) and have accepted my husband’s last name, which is on my marriage certificate. I have certain benefits that I receive where I need to retain my maiden name, where I could potentially lose them if I go about changing my legal documents to my married name. I’m currently pregnant and was told by the hospital that if I wanted my married to be on the baby’s hospital ID, then I would need to change my ID reflecting my married name. Is there any way around this? I would like my baby to have my married name on the hospital ID.
Hi Takeesha. Did you try presenting a copy of your marriage certificate to the hospital?
That’s a good idea! If my insurance card has my maiden name on it as well, will they still accept my marriage license?
Hi Takeesha. It's possible it may be accepted. It's ultimately up to the hospital.
Is there a certain reason you want your married name on baby's ID? I'm a L&D nurse and the reason we use mom's name is so that we know baby is with the correct mom. For example, if your name is Jane Smith, baby's ID would say BB (baby boy) or BG (baby girl) Smith, Jane. It has nothing to do with what name you put on baby's birth certificate or legal name. It's strictly to keep mother and baby's records together
I will be getting married at the court house and then having a wedding later on. I plan on changing my name to his last name and that's what i put on the marriage certificate but i dont want to change my name with Social security and other documents cause we dont want people knowing until the wedding. But i was wanting to add him to my insurance. Can i legally do that without a name change and just as long as i provide the marriage certificate?
Yes, as the surname isn't relevant in such cases.
I got married a week ago, changed my last name to his on the marrage license, now I receive ssi. Do I need to change to married name or can I keep maiden name? I haven't changed anything except the marrage license. I want to be known as his last name.
It's optional. You don't have to change anything.
I got married almost a year ago and that married name is on my marriage license. (My current last name is my previous husband's last name). Do I have to change my last name since it is on that marriage license? In other words do I have to change my last name with the Social Security Office, my license, etc, or is it ok and legal to keep my last name I have now but not change it on anything but a marriage license? I call my self and sign documents with my new married name, but if I don't have to change my name on all the other things I won't. Thank you!
No, you do not have to change your name on any of those documents. Having a new name on your marriage certificate gives you the option to change your name, but that doesn't mean you have to use it.
Hi, i recently got married and still to go through the process of legally changing my name. However am confused when posed with the question single or married, for instance during my medical appointments. Does a name change matter to change my status from single to married, or i can now go with married eventhough i still use my old names.
Thank you!!
You'd answer marital status questions the same regardless of your name.
On the mariage certifiçate I have signed my maiden name. Can I go back to my maiden name without seeking a lawyer?
Hi Julie. States handle things differently. In some, it's possible to restore a maiden name as part of the marriage name changing process. In others, not so much. Without knowing the state, it's simply too variable to say definitively.
Here's a brain teaser:
Jane Doe married Freddy Stagg and her legal name becomes Jane Stagg. She never changes her IDs to the new name and continues to use Jane Doe.
Later, she has a legal name change using Jane Doe (using the outdated IDs) to Sarah Doe.
Sarah Doe separates from Freddy (no divorce) and marries John Young. She takes his last name in the marriage and becomes Sarah Young. Again never changing her IDs.
Sarah then uses the name Jane Doe to divorce Freddy Stagg. In the divorce with Stagg she has her name changed to Sarah Doe.
What is her actual name?
Did she legally divorce Stagg?
Is Young married to anyone?
Note: she did commit bigamy, but in the state of Georgia the marriage is valid (though prohibited) until challenged in court. The question with Young is if the woman used an invalid name is the marriage even valid or is Young married to someone that legally does not exist.
This is my current circumstances just the names are changed. I would be John Young in this story.
Let me correct two errors.
1- the separation with Stagg comes before the name change to Sarah Doe. It shouldn’t have any bearing on anything.
2- when Sarah Doe marries John Young, Sarah does get a driver’s license in the name of Sarah Young.
It doesn't.
This doesn't really matter.
Jane Doe is still her name.
Unclear. Obtaining a court order to change your name doesn't legally change it. Once it's changed with the Social Security Administration, then it's for real.
That's bigamy, but you allude to this later.
At this point, it's not clear if "Jane Doe" or "Sarah Doe" is actually the her legal name. Did she ever go through the motions of effecting a name change after successfully petitioning the court?
Same as above. Did she actually change her name with federal and state government authorities after obtaining a court order? If so, her name is Sarah Doe. If not, it's still Jane Doe.
Even though the name used in divorce proceeding was Jane Doe, the court could have been using false information unbeknownst to them based on old identification cards/documents.
If the divorce was decreed final, it was legal.
Yes, she's married to John Young.
The marriage exists and it's real, but it's void. A petition for annulment can be filed by a party to the marriage.
Alleged name changes may add some weight or flavor to an annulment petition, but it wouldn't be the core rational for the Superior Court to grant or deny an annulment. Bigamy is the elephant in the room.
You may need to consult an attorney, if your intent is to end the marriage. If you don't want the marriage to end, it can be ratified as valid with your consent and continued cohabitation as husband and wife. This is possible since the impediment of the prior marriage did end in divorce.
Yes, the petition for the Name change is effected through the Social Security Agency.
On her SS card it reads Sarah Doe (not Jane Doe)
Hi
We got married in October , when we got married I assumed his name on the big day. 5 months later I’m still using my maiden name because we are still waiting for our marriage certificate to come in the mail. Hope this is legal.
Hi Kb. Yes, it's fine for you to continue your maiden name now and for as long as you see fit.
Hi,
I got married June 2016 and left my maiden name on the marriage license. I would like to change my last name to my husband's now. What procedures do I need to take?
Thanks!
Hi Stephanie. If you were married in a state where they print a new name choice on your marriage certificate and you chose to do so at the time, you may not able to change your name with the certificate. If your application never asked for such information, then you'd use your certificate as-is to effect a name change.
I am married but separated. My drivers license is in my maiden name. I honestly don't remember if I ever changed my SS to my husbands last name but I do have a SS card in my maiden name and all paperwork at my place of employment is under my maiden name. I need to get a passport and they ask about marriage and other names used. I did use my husbands last name at my children's school when they were young. Not sure if I ever had a DL in his last name. Will I have a problem getting my passport in my maiden name when I list I am married and have used his last name for some things?
You can go to your nearest social security office to verify your name on file.
They were referring to prior legal name changes, but it's unlikely to be an issue as you'll be renewing under the same name.
I have been married to my husband for almost 12 years. I want to incorporate my maiden name. My married name is Susan C Jones. I have recurring ID theft daily! I want to make my name:
Mrs. Susan Carol LowryJones
Hi Susan. You'll have to submit a name change petition with the courts.
I married in 1981. I changed from my maiden name to my married name on my drivers license only. I have used my married name all these years with no questions asked, until recently when I went to renew my Ohio drivers license and was told the name and ssn doesn’t match. I went to the social Security Administration and decided since I haven’t lived with my husband for 12 years, I would like to have my maiden name on my license. Got proof that I never changed it through as office and still they need either a divorce decree or name change. If I never changed it through the social Security Administration isn’t my legal name still my maiden name??? My licenses is expired and they won’t let me use my maiden name at the bmv. Even with my social security papers . I feel like the bmv is forcing me to use my married name or file for divorce.
Also the last few years my taxes had to be filed under my maiden name.
Yes, that makes sense as the SSA and IRS names must match.
Hi Beth. Confirmation documents from the SSA wouldn't suffice. They'll need one of three things: marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Marriage certificate is out, since you're looking to revert to your maiden name. If y our divorce decree has an order restoring your maiden name, it can be used. Otherwise, you'll need to obtain a court order.
Hi.. before i get married i have my id with my maiden name and now its not yet expired this is the only one i have.now im going to get some certificate can i have my maiden name also to match it..and if i will renew i will use my married name all together.
Do you want the name on your certificate to match your maiden name or do you want the name on your ID to match your certificate? Are you looking to maintain your maiden name or to switch to something else? Please clarify.
Hi, I just got married 5 months ago and I removed my maiden name and took his. Now, I’m regretting it and i want it back. What can I do to get it back? I even changed my social security but not my drivers license. Can I change it or I’m gonna love forever with this regret? I’m super sad.
***live forever***
You can definitely get your maiden name back, but you'll have to petition the court to do so.
Valera,
I want to thank you giving Stephanie the information you gave her. Until my recent marriage this year, I had my maiden name for 15 years after divorce. I'm 50 years old and realized I want my maiden name back.