How to Change Your Name After Marriage
Changing your name after marriage is a big decision, whether taking your spouse's last name, hyphenating, or creating a new last name. Yet it need not overwhelm you.
This quick and easy guide will show you how to complete the marriage name change process with precision and in proper order. Get ready to change your last name with confidence.
Authorization to legally change your name
Legally changing your name after your wedding is a hefty legal task. So focus on bite-sized chunks. Begin with a new social security card. Then a new driver's license. Persist.
There are three prevalent name change events:
- Marriage
- Divorce
- Court order
And each has a related legal name change document:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree (with restored name order)
- Court order (with name change order)
The name change process using your marriage certificate works the same when using a decree of dissolution or judge's order, which decrees or orders your name changed.
Civil union and domestic partnership name changes use the same process as changing your name by marriage—using their comparable certified documents.
Name change through the marriage process
If your marriage certificate says your new last name will be XYZ, you may only shift to that name. Otherwise, pick whichever last name you decide works best, within acceptable limits.
Within acceptable limits refers to default social security rules for surnames:
- Take your spouse's last name.
- Hyphenate your last names (or use a space).
- Take half of your spouse's hyphenated last name.
You may also replace your middle name with your maiden name (or birth last name), alongside changing your last name. Or add another name to your middle name.
Tip: If you want to change your name without reading this detailed guide, our secure online name change kit is a great time-saver.
Is name change after marriage automatic?
Your last name will not automatically change after you get married. There are legal steps and forms to fill out. You must alert multiple government offices to make it legit.
Likewise, your name will not revert or switch by itself after divorcing or completing a formal name change petition. You must put in the work.
So if you plan to change your name after marriage, get ready to review your name change checklist, sorted by priority.
The name change process begins now…
1. Get your marriage certificate
The first step to changing your last name is to get your marriage certificate. This is one of your most important legal name change documents. You cannot move forward without it.
You can use an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate to change your name after marriage among government agencies.
But you must apply for a marriage license to get a certificate. New England states, NY, and NJ, visit your city or town clerk. Others, see your county clerk's office or county courthouse.
Either you or your officiant must return your completed license to the issuing office for recording after your wedding. Get your certified certificates from the same office.
Marriage license vs. marriage certificate
People often mix up the marriage license and certificate. But there is a key difference:
- Your marriage license allows you to marry.
- Your marriage certificate proves your marriage occurred.
Depending on where you live, your marriage license and certificate may be the same document; only the status shifts after your ceremony takes place.
Get your marriage certificate as soon as possible
You can get certified copies of your marriage certificate delivered straight to your mailbox; just preorder copies when you apply to get married. Yet a quicker way exists…
Many couples assume only their officiant may send back their marriage license. Not true. You may return your own marriage license after getting married.
You may obtain your marriage certificate fastest if you:
- Return your marriage license in person.
- Get certified copies before leaving the clerk's office.
One certified copy of your marriage certificate will cost between $5 and $25. Fees each state levies vary. Yet most hover around $20. (They will often discount extra copies.)
Consider getting no less than three certified copies of your marriage certificate. This saves time when changing your name across multiple entities.
2. Update your social security card
Your name change becomes legal once you update the name on your social security card through the Social Security Administration (SSA).
You can view our extensive social security name change guide, which covers filing options, identity documents, name change possibilities, turnaround times, etc.
In short, submit SS-5 by mail or in person with a certified copy of your marriage certificate, and proof of ID and citizenship (e.g., birth certificate). Your new card will show in 7–14 days.
Your local social security office will mail back any ID, certificate, or personal document included with your paperwork. They will get delivered before your new card.
Your updated social security card will print your new full name, but your social security number (SSN) will not change.
3. Update the IRS
The SSA will alert the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of your name change. File your tax returns in your new last name to avoid delays in processing and refunds.
You must mail IRS Form 8822 if your "home mailing address" changed. Note prior names for both you and your spouse. You need not attach proof of name change or photo ID.
4. Update your driver's license or state ID card
Note: We will use DMV as shorthand for your state's Department of Motor Vehicles office. State acronyms vary—e.g., BMV, RMV, SOS—but their offices are equivalent.
You must first update your name with the Social Security Administration before changing your name on your driver's license, REAL ID, state-issued ID card, or learner's permit.
You cannot change the name on your driver's license by mail or online. Complete this corrective renewal at your local DMV. And factor in potential deadlines.
Come prepared to take a new photo and pay a renewal or reissue fee. Bring cash or a personal check. Offices accepting credit card payments may add a surcharge.
On May 3, 2023 May 7, 2025, the oft-delayed REAL ID deadline goes into effect, requiring adult air travelers to own a REAL ID compliant driver's license, enhanced driver's license (EDL), or other valid ID to fly within the United States.
Documents needed by the DMV
Bring your current driver's license, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, and proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, bank statement) to change your name with the DMV.
You will need to show proof of your full SSN, such as a:
- Social security card
- Pay stub
- W-2, or
- 1099 tax form
The DMV will not keep your certificate, but may retain your old license and issue you a temporary ID. Your new license will arrive by mail.
You do not need to bring a social security office receipt of services rendered.
SSA to DMV verification (mind the 24 hour gap)
The DMV will confirm your name change with the SSA Online Verification System (OVS) by querying their database. This search requires your SSN.
Wait at least 24 hours between your social security card and driver's license name change. This gives the SSA database time to propagate new data before getting queried.
The new name on your new driver's license must agree with your SSA "Numident" record. This explains why your SS name change precedes your DL name change.
You can visit the DMV to update your license without waiting for your new social security card to arrive.
5. Update your car title and registration
You must update your vehicle title and registration when your name or address changes. You can often complete this process online, by mail, or by filling out papers at the DMV.
The procedure for car title and registration changes varies across states. You should consult your state's DMV website for precise details.
At a minimum, you must hand in your current vehicle title. Both your new title and registration should arrive by mail within a few weeks. Your title should come last.
Revising your vehicle title and registration is not a DMV role in every state. Most states assign this task to an approved license plate agency.
6. Update your passport
You may change the name on your U.S. passport with the U.S. Department of State before, during, or after changing your name with the SSA or DMV.
There are two feasible passport name change scenarios:
- Change the name on your current passport.
- Get your first ever passport under your married name.
Choosing the right passport application
There are three core passport forms (DS-5504, DS-82, and DS-11) and one conditional (DS-62). The upcoming three subsections will explain which one you should fill out.
But, first, three vital notes…
If you have a passport, forfeit it with your completed form. You will get your old passport back by mail, albeit voided with a hole punched through or stamped "cancelled" inside.
For all filings, attach a certified copy of your marriage certificate as proof of name change, requisite payments, and a recent 2-by-2-inch color headshot.
Pay by check or money order. Payable to "U.S. Department of State." File at a U.S. embassy or consulate if outside the U.S or Canada; both accept credit cards and exact cash.
Now, onto the forms…
Which date was your passport issued?
A. Issued less than one year ago
Mail DS-5504 with your current passport if it got issued less than a year ago. This application offers filings free of cost. There is no book, card, or processing fee.
B. Issued between one and 15 years ago
Mail DS-82 with your current passport if it got issued between one and 15 years ago. The passport book costs $130. The passport card costs $30. You may get either or both.
C: Issued over 15 years ago, lost, destroyed, or first-time
Submit DS-11 in person—with photo ID and proof of U.S. citizenship—at an acceptance facility, such as the thousands of designated USPS offices, if your passport is:
- Over 15 years old
- Lost
- Stolen
- Damaged, or
- Nonexistent, since this will be your first passport
You may get a passport book for $130, passport card for $30, or both for $160. The acceptance facility will charge a $35 execution fee to process your application.
You must attach DS-64 to DS-11 if your passport becomes lost, stolen, or damaged. This combo is required regardless of your passport age.
Passport processing times
Routine passport turnaround time is 7 to 10 weeks (application received to delivery by USPS Priority Mail). Adding $60 expedited processing drops the wait to 4 to 6 weeks.
If you need to travel right away, urgent or emergency travel options exist. Urgent means within 14 calendar days. Emergency means within 72 hours.
Traveling under your maiden or married name
The name on your passport and airline tickets must match when you leave the United States. This detail may get overlooked during the wedding and honeymoon rush.
If you cannot get a new passport before departing, book your plane tickets under your maiden name. You can update the name on your passport when you get back.
If you cannot alter your boarding pass to match your new passport, show the airline your marriage certificate linking your old and new name.
7. Update your bank accounts
Steps to update your legal name differ across financial institutions. Your bank or credit union may let you change your name online, by mail, by phone, or in-person visit.
Show proof of name change, such as a marriage certificate, or a new social security card, driver's license, passport, military ID card, or government-issued photo ID card.
It is possible your bank may request both a marriage certificate and updated photo ID showing your married name.
Expect to at least supply your old and updated name, account numbers, and IRS W-9 Tax Identification Number (TIN).
Your TIN is a:
- Social security number (SSN)
- Individual tax identification number (ITIN), or
- Employer identification number (EIN) (for businesses)
When updating your name at a local bank branch, bring certified or original documents. Photocopies or scans are often fine for mailed or uploaded online filings.
Specify if you need new:
- Checks
- Deposit slips
- Credit and debit cards
You may order new checks any time online from either your bank's website or a third-party check provider. (This could serve as your first official name conversion.)
If you ask, various banks may let you keep cashing, depositing, and writing checks in your old and new name. They may have you sign two signature cards.
8. Update your credit cards
You should update the name on your credit cards to match the name on your social security record. Your marriage certificate can serve as proof of name change.
You may make account changes by calling the customer service number on the back of your credit card or visiting a nearby branch location. (Assuming one exists.)
The process varies per creditor. Some allow you to change your name by phone, mail, fax, online chat, official mobile app, or online account area.
Various credit card issuers may allow the display name on your card to differ from your new legal name. For example, you could continue using your maiden name.
The three credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—will automatically update the name on your credit report once you change your name on one or more credit cards. (No need for you to contact them.)
9. Update your employers and HR
Notify the Human Resources (HR) department where you work that you have legally changed your name. HR must update payroll records to equal what the SSA has on file.
The IRS requires your name match between your social security card, W-2, and W-4, for payroll taxes. Your marital status may impact employer-based health insurance and W-4 allowances.
Inform HR if you have opened a new joint bank account with your spouse to ensure direct depositing of your wages proceed without interruption.
Ask your employer for a corrected W-2 if your issued W-2 shows your old name. The IRS may intervene on your behalf if a current or former employer does not comply.
10. Update your name with the USPS
You should alert the United States Postal Service (USPS) if you have changed both your name and mailing address to set up and schedule mail forwarding.
Filing separate requests in your maiden name and married name is key. (Plus every other prior name you have held.) See our USPS name change guide for instructions.
11. Update your voter registration information
You may change the name on your voter registration by mail using the downloadable, federal National Mail Voter Registration Form. (It supports 21 languages.)
U.S. citizens living in the country (or with a U.S. address) may use this document in four ways:
- Register to vote.
- Report a name change.
- Report an address change.
- Register with a political party.
Caveats: This document will neither work in Wyoming nor North Dakota; WY law blocks it, while ND does not register voters.
12. Update or notify everyone else
After you change your last name on legal documents, deal with these key leftovers:
- Business documents (e.g., DBA, LLC, corporate charter)
- Business relationships (e.g., attorneys, accountants)
- Clients, customers, and vendors
- Doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and therapists
- Email accounts (name and signature) (e.g., Gmail, Apple Mail, Outlook)
- Gym memberships
- Insurance policies (e.g., auto, home, dental, life, health)
- Mailbox services (e.g., PO Box, PMB)
- Mobile apps (bio or profile name)
- Mortgages, deeds, and leases
- Payment services (e.g., PayPal, Venmo, Zelle)
- Professional licenses and degrees
- Retirement and investment accounts (e.g., 401(k), IRA)
- Ridesharing profiles (drivers and riders) (e.g., Uber, Lyft)
- Schools (yours and your children's)
- Social media accounts (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, TikTok)
- Streaming profiles (e.g., Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+)
- Trusted Traveler Programs (e.g., Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, SENTRI, NEXUS)
- Utility companies (e.g., gas, electric, water, phone, cable, Internet)
- Wholesale retailers (e.g., Sam's Club, Costco, BJ's)
- Wills and powers of attorney (POA)
Create a list of who else to update about your new last name by reviewing your email inbox and sent folder, phone contacts, and postal mail pile.
Conclusion
After getting married, many couples want to change their name. It is not as hard as you may think. Your marriage certificate is your name change checklist starting point.
If you want an easy way to make these changes, consider using our name change kit. It can streamline the time-consuming process of changing your name after marriage.
We hope this article helped you understand the steps needed to make your name change possible. If you have questions, ask us in the comments section below.
I got married last week in Paris. My husband and I are both US citizen. I took my husband last name. What I need to do to change my last name in New York State?
Hi Draga. Use your marriage certificate. New York will accept foreign marriage certificates.
Hi I got married 7 years ago in California and on my marriage license added my husbands last name to mine without hyphenating it. I was told I would be able to use either one legally this way and not necessarily both but when I went to change it at the dmv they made me use both. It’s way too long how can I change it to just my husbands last name now?
Whoever told you that was mistaken.
You'll have to petition the California Superior Court. You can review the California name change page which delves into this further.
Hi, I just got married for the second time in SC and too my husbands last name. I have changed my SS card to my new last name and now need to go to get my SC license ( I currently have a maine license). In order to get a real id do I need both marriage licenses to prove names changes scence birth or just the most recent one?
Hi Meggan. You just need to bring the most recent one.
I was married in August. On the marriage certificate I did change my last name to my husbands. Do I have to use his last name and change it with Social Security and DMV or can I continue to use my Maiden name and change nothing? I live in Minnesota.
It would just be easier for work purpose if I was able to keep my Maiden name the same.
You don't have to change anything.
I am in the same situation! What did you end up doing? My last name is hyphenated only on my marriage certificate, nothing else. I don't want to go through everything else.
You don't have to go beyond your marriage certificate.
Hi There, I got married in VA in 2015 and kept my maiden name on my marriage certificate, I wasn't aware that I should have changed to my husband's name then.
Now, in California, I'm interested in finally changing my name and I thought I could just take my marriage certificate & license to the SSA and start with a new social security card. Do I have to go to the superior court and apply for a name change there before everything else? I was just told about this from a friend yesterday.
It seems like such a long and arduous process and if I do have to do this I might just stick with my maiden name. Thanks for the help!
Virginia's marriage application, license, and certificate don't provide spots to show a new name, so you didn't miss an opportunity there.
You can. Just take your Virginia marriage certificate as-is to change your name. You may want to review the dedicated Virginia name change article.
Hi! I’m getting married but I want to change my first name and take his last name can I do the on the certificate?
You cannot change your first name through marriage. You'll have to get it done in court.
My husband an I married 2 years ago, but I chose not to take his last name at first because I was undecided (I'm a writer and already had recognition under my maiden name). Now I am ready to take his last name, but the process seems muddy! I don't have any formal documents of my new name. I live in Ohio. Any instructions?
Hi Kathryn. You just need to use a certified copy of your marriage certificate from two years back to change your name. That document authorizes various federal and state institutions to process your name change request.
I want to change my first name when I get married. But they say I need to apply for a legal name change through the court. Why can’t I change it through marriage like I could through divorce
You can't change your first name through marriage or divorce. It's just the ways the laws are set up.
I change my name on my marriage certificate and now I don’t want to change my name legally….
Can I go back and change my marriage certificate to my original name?
I live in California.
You don't have to change your name to match your marriage certificate. Changing your name is voluntary.
You cannot change the name on your marriage certificate unless it's a clerical error, which this is not.
I'm in Florida. We are both wanting to hyphenate after marriage. For example, me:first middle his last-my last and
Him first middle his last-my last. Is this able to be done without a petition to the court?
Hi Torri. You may both change your names without going to court.
I recently got married but I am going out of the country in a couple of months. I was going to wait to get my name changed so I don't get caught up in customs with one name on my passport and my new name on my driver's license ect… I was then told to change my name as soon as I can because if I wait too long it will cost $$$. Is there a short window in which I can change my name after getting married? If I do change my name, will it cause me trouble at the airport?
Thanks!
No, there is no time frame to abide by.
Book your tickets to match the name on your passport. Keep a certified copy of your marriage certificate with you to explain any name difference.
I got married in April of 2019. My marriage certificate does not have my new last name…I wanted it on there. Do I got to get a new certificate with my new last name? Also am I able to change all my important cards (dl & bank card) with the current certificate with my maiden name? I live in PA.
That's normal for Pennsylvania and most other states.
You'll be able to change your name fine using your marriage certificate.
Hello, I have change my name in each document Vanshita. But in my school certificate my name is Vanshita nee basanti Devi School board say's nee means alias.
Now I'm married I want in my marriage certificate only Vanshita basnet Basnet in my husband sir name. Is this effect in my future document Is this legal also?
Depending on what state your marriage took place, your marriage certificate may or not show a new married name. Most states will show your pre-marriage name on the certificate.
If your marriage license application didn't provide an opportunity to choose a new name after marriage, then your certificate wouldn't either.
You can't modify your certificate in such instances, but you can still use it to change your name.
Hello, I live in IL and was married two years ago. I am now planning in changing my last name. Instead of taking my husbands last name or hyphenating it I would like to make a new last name that is a combination of the two (Smith+Jones=Smone). Would I still be able to do this with just my marriage license or should I go through a legal hearing to have it changed?
Illinois is not one of the few states that allow combination names. You'll have to go to court. You can review the Illinois name change page for what to expect when changing your name by court order.
Hi there,
I live in Oregon and got married in Oregon in May 2019. On the marriage license/certificate I had put that I wanted my husband’s last name after we were to be married: First Middle Hisname. We are now married and our license/certificate was filed by the judge that married us… my questions are:
1. Did my name automatically change when the license/certificate was filed or do I still have to take proactive measures to change my name legally? (ie. driver’s license, social sec., etc)
2. I haven’t updated my driver’s license, social security card, or anything else and don’t want to change my last name anymore. Do I still have to because I had put it down on the marriage license/certificate that I was going to change my name after marriage?
3. My husband left the “name taken after marriage” box blank on our marriage license/certificate when it was filed and now wants to change his last name to my name: First Middle Myname. How can he change his last name to my (maiden) name when our certificate has already been filed?
Name change isn't automatic. You have to file the paperwork.
You're not obligated to follow through.
Short of requesting a marriage certificate amendment (which is unlikely to be approved), he'd have to petition the court.
Hi,
I am Vietnamese, living in VN, my husband is US, how to change my last name to his ?
Thanks
Hi Tram. Is there a specific document you're looking to update?
Hello-Question-was married a few months ago in NYS which indicated that I could not add my husband's surname to mine unless I hyphenated it. I went to SSA who said since they are federal I could make it what ever I wanted. So I took my maiden name as a middle name and husbands surname. This does not match the nys marriage certificate and I am attempting to establish my new primary residence in NH, but have current residency in MD. I prefer the SSA name but am not sure how I make this change given the marriage certificate says something else. Does the name on SSA require a court order name change in either MD or NH?
FYI-in NYS hyphenated it for the marriage certificate
If you've already changed your name with the SSA in New York, you're done. There's no need to go to an SSA office in Maryland or New Hampshire. If you're referring to something else, please do clarify.
Recently I have been getting mixed information about this whole name change and I've never been so confused! I have been married for 6 years and never used my marriage name. I have continued to use my maiden name. Is that ok? Everything is under my maiden name. I'm from Boston, MA.
You're fine. It's a nonissue.
Hello,
My wife and I got married in 2017. We were married and reside in California. At the time we filled out the marriage certificate/license she was not ready to change her last name to mine. She now wishes to change it to mine. Is there a simpler way for her to do that in CA or does she have to go through the traditional long name-change process?
She is contemplating moving her maiden last name to be her middle name and dropping her middle name, would that make a difference? Also, we are same-sex couple (I don't think that makes a difference but just wanted to mention it in case it does).
No, since she didn't choose a new name when applying for a marriage license, she'll now have to go to court to change it.
Unfortunately, it wouldn't make a difference.
It wouldn't make a difference. California is interesting because it provides a great deal of name change flexibility. However, the downside that catches many people off guard is when they choose to not specify a name change on the marriage license application and that non-choice is reflected on the marriage certificate.
This causes a great deal of confusion and ambiguity. Does not choosing a new name leave room to maneuver or does it close all doors? In California, it closes all doors. You're left with having to petition the court.
When I got married I kept for divorced husband's last name. It was fine with my new husband and I did it for professional, personal, and family reasons. It has created some issues.
My biggest problem is societies reaction. Although I never used my new husband's last name nor "hyphenated" my name, I started seeing companies I do business with hyphenating my name. I told my husband maybe I should just change my name and "hyphenate" it, but after reading the problems and hassle of making a name change, I am totally disgusted with the outside pressures.
Everywhere I turn people have my name listed with my current husband's last name or with my deceased husband's name and current husband's name hyphenated. What the heck to do? I am who I am and I dearly adore my current husband and was considering changing my last name by hyphenating, but do not want to go through the hassle, if it is just going to create more problems.
I reside in California. Have you come across this scenario? Society is just not willing to accept that my last name differs from my current husband. Help!
I don't recall a situation quite like this garnering much commentary in the comments section of these pages. It's odd that people would hyphenate your and your husband's names unprompted.
Let's cover the business aspect of it. If you're having trouble managing incorrect use by others of your hyphenated name, you could register a DBA of that hyphenated name.
Going through the process of hyphenating your name to satisfy the mistaken interpretation of others does seem to be a great use of your time.
However, if you like the hyphenated name, there's nothing stopping you from making the transition. It wouldn't be as straightforward as a regular marriage name change, as you'd have to go to court, pay the fees, publish your name in the newspaper, and attend a court hearing.
If that's the road you're looking to go down, you can review the name change in California page that explains the court process.
Hi I got married back in 2011 is it to late for me to change my name? I was a teenager when I got married I thought the certificate was all that I needed.😩
It's not too late. You'd still use your marriage certificate.
Hi. I am going to be getting married in Ohio in December, but live in NY. I want to take the last name of my fiancee. Will that be an issue in Ohio? Does Ohio's form have a place to indicate what I would like my surname to be after marriage?
Many thanks
No. But, on an unrelated note… If neither you nor your soon-to-be spouse live in Ohio, you'll have to apply for your marriage license in the county where your marriage will take place.
No, it only asks for your current name. You can't specify a new name after marriage.
Hi there, my fiancé and I live in Tennessee, but we will be getting married in Las Vegas next month. There is a form on Nevada's marriage application to indicate if I will take a new last name. At this point in time, I'm not sure that I want to change my name, but I may change it down the road. If I do decide to change my name in a few months, will I need to initiate that in NV, or TN? Will it be a problem if i indicate that I *don't* plan on changing my name, but then do so anyways at a later date?
Any guidance is appreciated!
In your state of residence, Tennessee.
No, you'll still be able to change it if left unspecified.
I want to change my last name. My dad had an affair and got divorced and it has all been nasty and I no longer want to be associated with him at all.
I am also getting married in 1 month and realized I don’t want my wife to have to change her last name to my current last name then change it again whenever I finally decide to change my name.
If possible I would like to either just both change our last names at the same time when we sign everything and are about to get married or to do it before the wedding so when we are married she can just change hers to my new last name.
Where do I begin and what do I need to do? How soon after we changed our names would we need to get a new passport and ID and everything. What are the steps I need to take to change my last name before we get married that way we will just have my new name after the wedding?
Petition the court for a name change.
There's no deadline.
Court petition, but you'll have to time it properly. You'll have to file the paperwork, get your case scheduled, likely publish your new name in the newspaper for a set period of time, etc.
You may want to look over the court ordered name change page that delves into this further.
Hi I am recently engaged. My future husband is in the military. Shortly after getting married in Ga ( Wheres he’s from and I currently live .) I will be moving to where he’s currently stationed for secondary schooling ( He lives off base. )
Before , I go through the process to get a Military ID I would like my name to be changed . Do I have to do this process in GA 1st then move to where he is and do it all over for Drivers license etc. ? Or can I move then start said process where he is with just the marriage license from Ga ?
Hi Emily. You can initiate your name change before after moving, as long as you are married and you can present a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
Hi, Is it normal that my marriage certificate is still my maiden name? Or should have change that when I apply for my marriage license
It depends on the state. It's normal for most states. If you specify where your marriage took place I can tell you for certain.
Hello! My husband and I were married in MI in 2016 and I did not take his last name. Now that we are expecting a son we want to combine our last names to create a new one to carry both last names on by our son. Just to be clear we do not want to hyphenate but rather put the two names together back to back. Can we both use our marriage certificate to do this kind of change?
Hi Christina. What you're seeking is possible with the Social Security Administration, but you're likely to face problems with other institutions, such as the SOS. The first problem is using a space instead of a hyphen. The next is your husband is likely to hit a roadblock trying to change his name through marriage in any way.
We weren't planning on using a space either. It would just be our current last names combined into one whole new name. Does this change anything? From Lumm and Mueller to LumMueller.
Sorry, I didn't reply to your comment.
This wouldn't make a difference.
Hi,
We got married in 2013 and I never changed my name. Now, my husband changed his name legally and now I would like to change my name to his new legal name. How do we proceed to make that change on the original marriage certificate so then I can change my name. I also need to make the same change on our daughters birth certificate, his new legal name needs to be recorded there. Any ideas? I have been searching and can not get far….we are in Illinois.
Thank you!
It's unlikely you'll be able to make such an amendment. You can contact the county clerk's office that recorded your marriage record if such a modification would be allowed, but it's unlikely.
That's handled by the Illinois Department of Health.
Hello! Me and my wife we got married in Cook County, Chicago, Illinois, last Saturday. When we applied for the marriage license, I told them, that my wife wants to take my last name, but from there said that will be on the marriage certificate.
On the wedding day, at the court I told the judge to put on her last name mine; she said, she is not the one who is doing this, but on the certificate will be changed. I called the Vital Bureau Records, and from there they said it’s not possible to change it; that I have to go to the consulate for that ( I’m a US citizen, my wife is Romanian); right now I’m confused. We didn’t get the marriage certificate yet; it’s not ready, maybe just next week.
I would like when I will apply for her immigration status, everywhere in the documents to appear my name. So actually, where is the 1st place where they suppose to change it?! Thank you
This appears to be a minor misunderstanding between you and the Cook County clerk. Illinois marriage license applications, licenses, and certificates don't ask for a new name after marriage. Your wife's new last name will be derived from your last name as shown on the eventual marriage certificate.
The certificate won't need changing. Your wife will be able to change her name just fine using the marriage certificate as it will appear.
Hi. My fiancé and I are getting married in MA. I really want to get his last name but I cant afford the name change in all documents for now. Just for change my name in my Green Card will be $540. My question is, if I decide keep my maiden for now, can I take my husband’s last name 2 years from now?
Yes, there's no time limit.
I got married last month and planning to change my last name to my husband's last name, but here in Texas they hyphenated his both last names (Dad & Mom's last name) Last-Last I don't want to use his mom's last name only his first one. Is that possible?
Hi Gabriela. The SSA would allow it, but TxDPS might give you some trouble. If your husband's legal last name isn't really isn't hyphenated, you can seek a correction of your marriage record.
I was married for 24 years and then we went through divorce and I kept his last name because I have full custody of my then, minor children. I got married again 2.5 years ago and now that my youngest is almost 17, so I would like to add my husband’s last name and keep my previous married name too, professionally speaking. If I do that without a hyphen can I choose when to use each name or do I need to use both names always?
For business purposes, you may want to look into filing a DBA in your preferred name.
You could use either name informally and in social settings. You must use both names for official purposes, such as taxes, filling out a job application (for background checks), or a loan, bank, or credit card application.
Anything that might query the legal name attached to your social security number should use your full name.
Is there a time frame for changing your license (I'm in NJ) after going to the Social Security office for my new name? I'd like to get the process started, and was hoping that the Real ID would be available by now. Since the Real ID is being tested in certain locations, can I just change it for Social Security and wait until the Real ID is available to get my new license?
It's generally a good idea to space out your SSA and MVC name change by at least 24 hours. If the MVC electronically queries the SSA for your new legal name, the 24-hour wait could provide enough time for updates to propagate.
Hello,
i just got married in Arizona and have an Arizona marriage license. i am moving to Colorado in a week and was wondering can i change my last name in Colorado at their social security office?
Yes, you can change your name at any social security office.
hi,
I added my husband's last name on the marriage certificate but i dont want to change it in real life (I don't want to change any of my IDs or SSN, or literally nothing) Would I have any problems? especially when travelling internationally?
You don't have to change it.
No.
Your fine as long as the name on your ticket matches the name on your passport.
thank you!!
Hello! I'm getting married in 3 weeks. My fiance and I live in Florida. We both want to change our last names to his maternal grandfather's last name as he didnt really know his father.
Can we both just change our last names once we receive our marriage certificate? Or does he need to file for a name change with the court first?
If he needs to file a name change and it isnt complete before our wedding date, will there be an issue in changing my name to his new last name?
No, that wouldn't work.
Correct.
If his court-petitioned name change isn't complete before you're married, he wouldn't be able to show ID in his new name when applying for a marriage license. In that instance, you'd have to petition the court for your own name change.
Hi! I got married in August in VA. I went to change my name at SSA and did First Name, Middle Name, Maiden Name, His Last Name. I have now decided I want to drop my Maiden Name and just have First Name, Middle Name, His Last Name. Can I do this at SSA with my marriage certificate?
Yes.
I got married Oct 5th. When we filled out the marriage license I chose to hyphenate (maiden name – husbands name). I haven’t updated any of my IDs yet with my new name. My question is this, do I legally have to go by my married name now? I’m due to leave the country in February, am I able to book my ticket in my maiden name and use my passport with my maiden name in it??
You can stick with your maiden name for as long as you prefer. You're under no obligation to change.
Yes, that would be most appropriate.
Ok so I was just filling out paperwork to register to vote by proxy back home in England. One of the questions was “has your name changed since leaving the UK”? I selected “No” as technically I haven’t completed any of the processes to update my name since getting married. Currently the only document that has my new name on it is my marriage certificate. Am I correct in looking at it like that document gives me the right to legally change my name but until I do, I haven’t changed my name and my legal name is still my maiden name… or am I totally wrong 😂
That's right.
Hi, i got married 2, almost 3, years ago in Texas, but i signed with my maiden name. How can i change it my last name to my husband's ? Do i just take the marriage certificate to the dmv ? Would it be valid to change it, since i signed with my maiden name?
You can't, and it's not necessary.
Yes.
Yes.
Hi,
I got married in California few months ago and when we were filling out the marriage certificate I said I don’t want to change my last name however now I changed my mind and would like to take my husband’s last name.
Do I have to go through court to change my last name to his?
Thank you!
You do if you live in California.
Hello Valera,
Thanks for all the information you provide.
I recently got married a few days ago – the license and certificate both have my maiden name.
I’ve since decided to tack on my husband’s last name with a hyphen. Ex: MaidenName-HisSurname. Do I need to request a new marriage certificate that reflects my desired hyphenated name or will the DMV/SSA just put two and two together and realize the hyphenated name I want to add belongs to my husband?
We reside in Maryland. Thank you!
You don't need to request anything extra. The SSA and DMV will derive your hyphenated name from your marriage certificate.
Hi, we just got went to San Francisco City to get our marriage license and we also the the ceremony there. My wife hyphenated her last name and my last name at the end. We made a mistake and both decide to use her last name as the middle name instead. For example Betty Chow-Chen.
Is it possible to drop the hypenated and just have Betty Chow Chen. So Her original last name would be the middle name instead. So we won't have two last name. Today is the day two. We went on December 27, 2019. Today is December 28, 2019. Is it too late to change it?
Thank you much for your advise. Hopefully, its not too late and its easy process? thanks again and greatly appreciate it. Happy holidays.
Hi Andy. Unfortunately, it's not possible to amend the marriage certificate because you prefer another name choice.
Hi Valera,
So we have to request the name change/can we request to correct the marriage certificate? We can't change it back? what would you recommend if we want to change to just one last name? please advise, thanks again Valera, greatly appreciate it. I didn't have a chance to call the City Hall today. It has been 3 days now.
Will i have to file a petition with the courts to do so, to correct and drop the hyphenate last name? haven't gone to get her change her SSI or driver license yet, one again its day 3 now. Hopefully, its an easy process to correct it back? please advise, thanks Valera. :) Happy New Year!
A court petition wouldn't be used to modify the certificate, but to initiate a brand new name change, independent of marriage.
Hi Andy. While California is quite generous with what you can change your name to after marriage, it's equally strict on altering your marriage certificate after marriage. It's not possible to amend it the way that you think. At best, you can contact the county clerk and plead for a modification and reissued certificate, but it's unlikely.
Thank you so much Valera for the quick respond. Greatly appreciate it. I see, so the only possible way is to petition the court right? We should get her new SSI change first? I thought we can modified it since its still fresh? When you mean reissued certificate, meaning we have to change the marriage date? They did the ceremony on December 27 also.
True, if she wants to change her name to something other than what's on the marriage certificate.
If she's already changed her name on her SS card, they'll want another document showing a new name change event. Such as a court order. She could request a name reversal, but that wouldn't achieve the ultimate end goal.
The certificate? You could request a modification for clerical errors. Unless you can convince the clerk that it's an error and not a regretful choice, the certificate can't be changed. It doesn't hurt to ask, as long as you understand that the odds are not in your favor.
If you can get the certificate amended (unlikely), then they'll issue you a new certified copy with the amendment attached.
The likelihood of an amendment being approved or denied doesn't depend on how soon the marriage took place. A valid modification would be honored for a marriage that took occurred yesterday or a decade ago.
Sorry about that, so its too late to change it now? There is no way to change it huh? My wife will stuck on two last name with the hepend? We really regret it. Having two last name is really not a good idea. Does it mean my wife, Betty will stuck with the two last name right? Betty Chow-Chen forever?
If she wants to change her name to differ from what's on the certificate, she'd have to petition the court for a new, separate name change. Once approved, the court order would supersede the certificate.
If she's already (and only) updated her social security card, there are procedures in place to request a name correction or name reversal using the marriage certificate. It's like an undo. Beyond that, she's not stuck. She'll just have to file a court petition and go through the motions.
Hi Valera,
Thank you so so much for your quick respond, and very helpful advise. I will try to see tomorrow. or maybe after new year. By the way, do you think the City Hall of San Francisco will automaticlly send us the official marriage license? or do we have to request for it? They only gave us like a survior one at the ceremony. By the way, I just wanted to take this quick opportunity to thank from the bottom of my heart for your advise. You're the best in this post, God bleed you!
You have to contact them and order a copy for $15. It's typically available to order 10 business days after they receive your returned marriage license.
You're very welcome.
Hi Valera,
Happy New Year! We contacted the San Francisco Country Clerk Office and spoke with Deputy County Clerk. She told us that once we are married and we can't not take out the hyphenated last time. Once again, my name is Andy Chen
My wife name is Betty Chow-Chen. We got mixed information, a person from http://www.cdph.ca.gov said we can amendment and correct the error and can take out the hyphenate. On the other hand, the lady from SF County Clerk said that we have to go throw the declaration of name change throw the superior court which will cost us about $900. Please advise, thank you.
Hi Andy. The county clerk can sign off on amending a clerical error. The San Francisco clerk is refusing because what you're requesting isn't fixing a clerical error, but a change of heart.
I got married in nevada , my husband is from mexico and has both his parents last name Hernandez , dads last name and Chairez from his mom maiden last name they told me i have to take both last names . So im stuck with both how can i just leave his last name Hernandez Only
Hi Jessica. It's all or nothing with the last name. The alternative is to petition the court.
hi i got married in 2017 in qld.
im now trying to change my last name to my husbands last name.
we applied for a marriage certificate and it just came in the mail and it has my maiden name on it still in the name section. can i still use this to change my name im so confused we wrote his last name on the certificate on line and now its arrived in the mail still my maiden name :( soo stressfull! im trying to change all my id. will this marriage certificate still work
Hi Jasmine. Could you clarify what you're referring to with "qld"? Queensland, Australia?
hello, my husband and i got married 8 years ago in IL and now with 2 kids i finally want to change my last name and take his. Do i go through a normal last name process or do i need to go through the court?
Hi Aneta. You'll go through the normal process.
Thank you for confirming. "name to be shown on card" on the SS application is my new (husband's) last name, correct? what about signature? also sign with a new one or previous maiden name?
Hi Aneta. Name to be shown on card would be your new name. Sign your new name as well.
Thank you – that's very helpful. One last question, Since i've never specified my husband's last name on the marriage license when getting married, is there any proof of name change docs i need to include with the SS application? or is application itself enough along with the other docs (current SS card, proof of identity & citizenship)?
Hi Aneta. The certified copy of your marriage certificate is proof of your name change event. It doesn't have to explicitly say your "new name is" because they'll be able to derive it from your husband's last name.
Hi, I got married back in 2019. I've been meaning to change my last name to my husbands but I haven't done so yet. We got married in Kentucky. Is it too late to change my last name? I'm scared it will be.
It's not too late. There is no name change time limit.
I recently got married in Florida. When filling out the license in the courthouse, I asked the clerk what name I should put on the license and she specifically told me to put my current name that matches my ID. I’m now worried she gave me incorrect information and will have trouble changing my last name to my husbands.
Hi Vanessa. The clerk gave you the correct information. You won't face a problem changing your name.
Hi! I got married on December 2019 in Connecticut. I wasn’t aware that I could use my new name on my marriage certificate so it still has my maiden name on it. What’s the process now for me to change my name? Thank you for your help!
Are you certain? I'm not aware of this option or such a change in marriage license or certificate paperwork.
The name on my marriage certificate is still my old name not my new married name. Can I still change my name through the social security administration or do I have to get a court order to change my name?
Hi Lizeth. You should be able to change your name using just your marriage certificate. No need for court.
Hi ,
I got recently married in Chicago . We applied online for license and just went to pick it up and signed later . We did not see option there for new last name after marriage .
Would I be able to still change my last name even I didn’t fill it out in my marriage license aplication?
Thank you
Hi Nattaly. You didn't miss anything. The option doesn't exist. It won't stop you from changing your name the regular way though.
I got married to my husband in 2006, and on the marriage certificate it has my maiden name. I would like to officially take his last name now. Will I have to go to court to have my name changed?
Hi Jennifer. Assuming you weren't given the option to choose a new name when you applied to get married, then you can use your marriage certificate to effect a name change. No need for court.
I got married in Florida but live in Kansas. I didn't put my new last name on the marriage license, therefore it isn't on the certificate, am I still able to change my last name to my husband's even though it isn't on the certificate? Or do I need to have Florida amend the certificate?
Hi Tiffani. Your marriage certificate is fine as-is.
Hello I livening Colorado and we got married several days ago. Our certificate has my maiden name only. I don't see a space where I could have indicated my preferred new name. I'm concerned that I may run into a problem when I attempt to change my maiden name to my married name, since my marriage license only has my pre – marriage name. What do you think? Thanks!
You didn't miss anything. Colorado has no such space. You'll be fine to change your name the usual way.
Hello,
My husband is Brazilian and has two last names so after the marriage I decided to take only one of his last names. Long story short, I am trying to register our marriage abroad and I am not allowed since I didn't take both his last names. Would I have to go to court to add the second last name?
Thank you
Hi Andreea. What country are you trying to register your marriage in?
Hi Valera, I'm trying to register my marriage in Romania and I went to the Romanian consulate after putting together all the paperwork, but they informed me that I need to add both last names from my husband.
Hi Andreea. In this case, you would have to take both last names. What works in Brazil isn't valid in Romania.
Thanks! I was just wondering if in that case, since I only took one last name 3 years ago, in order to add the second last name do I need to go to court?
Hi Valera,
So any idea if I would have to go to court to have this thing solved or is there another way. This was my initial question.
Thank you
Hi Andreea. You'll have to contact the consulate to ask if they require a court order and in which jurisdiction.
Hi Valera, I live in the US, so this is all happening here. In order to add a second last name from my husband, do I need to go to court?
Hi Andreea. You may have to go to court. You'll have to contact the consulate to determine if they'll accept a U.S. court order.
Can i change my name at the dmv first or do I absolutely have to do the social security office first? I reside in illinois. Thank you in advance
Hi Bonnie. You must update your social security card first. This is confirmed on the Illinois SOS Cyber Drive:
Hi,
I got married in Las Vegas in 2010 and there was no section to change my name to my husbands name so it just shows up as my maiden name. Do I have to change my name officially through court before going to DMV and all the other places. I live in NYC.
No, you'll use your marriage certificate.
My husband change his last name since we've gotten married in Florida. I never changed my last name to his former last name, and I now want to change my last name to his new last name. How can i go about doing so?
Hi Anouk. You'd have to apply for a court ordered name change. You wouldn't be able to do it using your marriage certificate, as it doesn't list his updated name.
I live in California. I have two first names, one middle, and one last (A B C D). When I marry, I would like to drop my second first name and middle name, and then hyphen my last name with my spouse (A D-E). Is this possible?
Hi Nikki. Changing your first name isn't possible through marriage using your marriage certificate. In California, such a name change will have to take place by petitioning the Superior Court.
Got it. Thank you so much!
Hi,
I think I've read too many articles and have confused myself… My husband and I got married in Arizona five years ago. We now reside in Ohio and I'd like to change my last name. Do I need to petition to the court for a name change since it's been so long and because I signed our marriage license with my maiden name? Thanks for any help!
Hi Liz. You don't need to petition any court. Just because you waited a few years to change your name, doesn't mean you've run out of time. You can change your name through marriage the regular way. You can review the Ohio name change page for more specifics.
My husband and I got married at the courthouse in California in July of this year. We’ll still be living in California for a few years because he’s in the Marines. I didn’t change my last name at the time and kept my maiden name, now I regret it, is there a way I can change it now? We still plan on have a wedding later in the future. Is there a way to do it with having to go to court? Please help.
Realistically, there's no name change through marriage option available. You had to make your choice when you applied for your California marriage license.
Unfortunately, no.
I live in Pa. Getting married. does it matter how I fill out my marriage application in regards to how I sign my new name after I am married? example i use my first name, middle inital,last name.
We got the license and it has my middle initial which I dont want. I want my middle name spelled out on my marriage cert because it is actually my maiden name. They told me i cannot do that and have to fill out the app exactly how my state license reads which does not have my middle name spelled out.
I did call a clerk back and she said i could go back and she would change it hersefl and update the records to reflect. Will this cause any issues with my ss by me wanting my middle name spelled out? Would really appreciate your help
It's a nonissue. The SSA doesn't even consider your middle name as part of your legal name, but they're still perfectly willing to add it to your social security card.
I live in Michigan i got married last year and i putted my husband's last name on the marriage certificate. After thinking about it I decided that i want to keep my unmarried last name
What should i do now?
Nothing, then your name will remain the same.
Hi, my question is similar to a prior question. I live in NYS. I have been divorced for 20 years but kept my married name. Everything has that name on it including my mortgage. I will be getting remarried. Can I put his name as my new surname on the license but not change anything else? He will be putting me on his health insurance at work, what name do I use? No matter how much I read on it, it is confusing to me.
Yes, the change will be isolated to that document and won't spread beyond that point.
Your current legal name, not whatever new intended name will be shown on your marriage certificate. If you decide to change your name later, update your health insurance record then.
I've been married for 7yrs now and now decided to change my last name to my husband's. We got married in Texas but now relocating to OK. Can I change my name and update my driver license there at the same time?
Hi Tram. Rule of thumb: wait 24-48 hours between updating your name with SSA and the DMV to allow the prior's database to refresh in time for DMV's query action.
Hello, i recently got married in Nevada but currently live in California. The clerk had told us that because my husband has 2 last names that i had to take both of them and since it's tradition for my family to take on our husband's last name, i agreed.
After talking to several family members, they have informed me that i did not have to take both last names and that i could have kept my last name along with one of his last names. I have not changed any documents to my new last name but was wondering if i could still fix this issue. I got married on November 15th.
Hi Cecilia. The clerk in Nevada had it right. It's all or nothing. You can see the Nevada name change article that explains this in detail.
I got married 14 years ago never changed my name can I still do it
Hi Deborah. Yes, there's no name change time limit.
Hi: I have been using my fiancé last name for over 40 years all of my important documents including SS i went to get my Real ID but the BMV said my birth certificate did not match my marriage license and I needed a name change. How do i go about that. Are do i have too since everything is already in my married name.
Hi Tissue. Which is your name change taking place in?
I recently applied for the application to get married in Nevada (and reside in NY) and chose the option of having my name hyphenated, i.e. maiden name – his last name; but my question is when I do a legal name change, does it have to reflect how it appears on the marriage certificate or can I just change documents and things to just his last name, without the hyphen
Hi Mona. If your marriage certificate shows this new name, you're locked into this choice when it comes time to update your social security card. If you haven't gotten married yet, you can either apply for a new marriage license or ask if the county clerk is able to amend and reissue your existing license.
Hello We got married in New York city but have moved to North Carolina since. My marriage certificate has my maiden name ( last name) but I would like to take my husband's last name now. How do I go about that in North carolina?
Will my marriage certificate work for last name change purpose or do I have to petition in the court for name change. All my documents, SSN, DL has my maiden name on it.
Your New York marriage certificate will work fine in North Carolina as-is.
My husbands birth name was recently changed so is now incorrect in our marriage license. My maiden name is also on it. How can we both update our names?
Hi Kimberly. You can request an amendment, but it may not be accepted for this circumstance. Your certificate is meant to be a snapshot in time. Name changes after the fact isn't likely a justified reason to grant an amendment.
Hello, I have received my marriage license last week, however, there is an error in my first name. That error is caused by an original error on my birth certificate which is additional spacing between the letters of my first name. I have never had any issues with it up until this point. All of my documents including my social security card, ID, passport, diplomas have my correct name (without any spacing).
If I can get my birth certificate amended after my marriage, will I be able to make that first name correction on my marriage certificate? I currently live in NY. My documents are all from here.
Hi Natalie. You can file an Affidavit for Correction of Marriage with the New York State Department of Health.
Hello! I got married in California 7 years ago and did not take my husbands Last Name. I now live in Texas and want to change my last name to his. What would I need to do?
Hi Ariel. You can use your California marriage certificate as proof of name change to make the transition in Texas.
I am getting married this month and have a trip planned in February to use my passport. Can I change my name on everything except my tickets and passport until after the trip?
Yes, but bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate with you to tie your old and new ID together.
Can I leave my ID in my maiden name also?
Hi Tiffany. If you update your social security card, you'll likely have to update your ID (e.g., driver's license, state-issued ID card) to match when it comes time to renew. So it's delaying the inevitable.
I live in MA and the marriage license asks if I want a new last name. I'm wanting to wait to change my last name until after honeymoon or closer to having kids. Can I keep maiden name on marriage certificate and easily change my last name later? Or if I put my new last name on the certificate do I have to change all documents right away?
Hi Kathy. You don't have to change your name right away. You can schedule it when it's most convenient for you.
I changed my first name 2 decades ago but never corrected my birth certificate. In order to get my marriage license I needed a birth certificate as proof of ID so I showed my birth certificate and name change paperwork. When I got my marriage license there was a line for "birthname if different" and the city clerk's office put my birth name down- which is no longer my legal name. I changed my name for a reason so it is VERY annoying that it is now reappearing on this document. Does this line HAVE to be filled out or can I file to amend the certificate?
Hi Zari. You'd have to supply a corrected birth certificate to amend an existing marriage record. However, if you haven't gotten married yet, you'll have to first update your birth certificate, then return to the marriage licensing office to get a new marriage license. You'll either apply for a new one or ask that they reissue a corrected copy.
If you're already married or don't have to time to go through vital records to correct your birth certificate, you'll have to request an amendment to your marriage certificate after the fact. This isn't guaranteed to work. And even if it did work, it wouldn't necessarily wipe out your prior name on file. They may attach a corrected notation or document to your flawed marriage record. So both documents would exist, with the newer meant to set the record straight.
I got married last week in WI. I received the copy of my marriage certificate in the mail today and realized it still had my maiden name on it. Am I still able to use it to change my name since it shows we are married or does the certificate have to have his name listed? It was an accident as I had all intentions of taking his last name, was just misguided at the county clerks office.
Hi Erin. Your marriage certificate is fine. Wisconsin marriage certificates will only show your current name at the time. In your case, it's your maiden name. The SSA and other federal and state entities will derive your name from you spouse's last name. That's standard operating procedure.
I live in Florida and got married 5 years ago and kept my maiden name. Now I would like to change to my husband's last name as that we are planning a family. Do I have to go through the court to petition a name change or can I just start with my marriage certificate at the SSA?
Hi Mel. You can just get started with your marriage certificate. No need to petition.
Thank you so much!
I didn't see anything like that on my Missouri marriage certificate application, how can I go about changing my name after my wedding next week?
Don't see what? I'm not sure what you're referring to. In Missouri, all you need to effect a name change after marriage is your marriage certificate as-is.
I got married in May 2022 in Illinois and was wondering is there a time frame on changing my name to my husband's name? Is there a fee after so much time has passed?
Hi Nita. Please review the deadline article that delves into this question.
I got married in OKLAHOMA on November 2, 2021. My marriage license shows that I would be using my husband's last name. It took me a few months before I went to the SSA to get a replacement SS card/update my name to my new married last name.
I haven't updated my DL due to the cost and bc my current DL doesn't expire until April 30, 2024. I also did not change it at work etc… I no longer work at that employer so the name on my W-2 will be my maiden name.
I am starting a new job now and I haven't updated my DL to match my SS card. Do I need to get my DL changed and fill out all of my tax forms for my new job with my married last name?
Your new job needs the name they have on file to match your social security card/record, not your driver's license. When you updated your social security card, they alerted the IRS of your name change. So your tax documents need to be in your married name.
I got married in 2018, and on my marriage certificate I took my husband’s last name. However, I never officially went to go change at the social security office, DMVs, passport, ect. because I was busy.
Can I still use my marriage certificate to officially change my name now? Some people said the marriage certificate is not valid anymore and that I have to get a new one issued if I want to officially change my name.
Yes, your marriage certificate is still good for name change, regardless of how far back your marriage took place.
They're wrong.