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 needn't 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 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 last name at birth), alongside changing your last name. Or add a second name to your middle name.
Consider our convenient online name change kit, designed to save you time and effort alongside this comprehensive guide.
Is name change after marriage automatic?
Your last name won't automatically change after you get married. There are legal steps and forms to fill out. You must alert multiple government offices to make it official.
Likewise, your name won't 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 can't 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. For 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's 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 completed 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'll often discount extra copies.)
Consider getting at least 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 arrive in 7–14 days.
Your local social security office will mail back any ID, certificate, or personal document included with your paperwork. They'll get delivered before your new card.
Your updated social security card will print your new full name, but your social security number (SSN) won't 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 needn't 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 can't change the name on your driver's license by mail or online. Complete this corrective renewal at your local DMV. And factor in potential name change 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 social security number (SSN), such as a:
- Social security card
- Pay stub
- W-2, or
- 1099 tax form
The DMV won't keep your certificate, but may retain your old driver's license and issue you a temporary ID. Your new license will arrive by mail.
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.
So with proper timing, 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 arrive last.
Revising your vehicle title and registration isn't 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'll 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." If you're outside the U.S or Canada, file at a U.S. embassy or consulate; 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 was issued between one and 15 years ago. The passport book costs $130, with an optional passport card available for an extra $30.
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 (from application received to delivery by USPS Priority Mail). Adding $60 for expedited processing shortens 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 your wedding and honeymoon rush.
If you can't 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 can't 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's possible your bank may request both a marriage certificate and updated photo ID showing your married name.
Expect to provide at least 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've 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. If your current or former employer doesn't comply, the IRS may intervene on your behalf.
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've 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, which 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 doesn't 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 and 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)
- 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's 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 them in the comments section below.
I got married on August 2011 and haven't change my new last name. Im I going to pay for taking long time to change it?
Hi Maria. No, there's no deadline to change your name.
Hi im liana lives in arizona.im married for 12years but not happy with my husband.and im using my husband last name.i uae it also on passport.my ex husband name is diaz.i want to change to lewis were my last when im not yet married.can i change diaz to lewis?what will i do?
Is Lewis your maiden name or current husband's name? If it's your maiden name, then petition the court for a name change. If it's your current husband's surname, then use a certified copy of your marriage record to change your name with the various government institutions.
Hello, i got married two years ago but in my married license I appear with my maiden name and now that I want to change it to my husbands last name in my social security they told that I have to appear with my husbands last name in my marriage certificate, I call where I got my marriage license to have my last name change and the told me that they cant that my name in my marriage license have to stay with my dads last name. I live in austin TX. What can I do?
Hi Deisy. The issuing office wouldn't amend your marriage record unless there's a mistake. You'll have to get a court petitioned name change.
Hello, my name is Samantha but I go by Lucas (I'm transgender) and I'm getting married in July to my fiancee. He's taking my last name. But I was wondering if I could use my name I want to be called on the marriage application for the marriage certificate?
Hi Lucas. First name changes require petitioning the court. Only surnames and, for the most part, middle names can be changed as a result of marriage.
Having said that, you specifically asked about using the name you want to be called on the application. Well, most officials who issue licenses require the name you specify on your application to match what's on your provided identification. If the names do not match, they'll likely not approve your application.
Hi, I got married in California in 2014 and didn't change my last name to my husbands name. I want to change it now. We are having a baby and I want us all to have the same last name. I live in Kansas. Both CA and KS told me I need to do a change of name form, but that will be 300 bucks and change my birth certificate. Can I just write my new name on my marriage certificate and go to the DMV and SS office to obtain new ID's? Thanks!
Hi Jessica. The SSA and DMV wouldn't accept a marriage certificate that's been doctored.
Hello , i got married 2 years ago and i wanted to keep my original last name and then my husband and now im.going to make the name change at social security and dmv but the only problem is that in the documentnof my.marriage document it say my name and my husbands last name ,, can i fix that at social security
Hi Jenifer. The Social Security Administration doesn't have anything to do with what's on your marriage record. You'll have to take that up with the office that recorded it. Also, not all states specify new names on their marriage record, so it may not even be necessary.
Hello I live in Florida and I recently just applied for my marriage license. Where it has the name of the Spouse, on my driver's license is what they used. Was I supposed to put my intended last name in that section and will that affect me from changing my name over to my husband's name? Do I need to get that fixed?
Hi Georgia. Your only option is to put your current, legal last name, and not the name you want to change to.
Hi, I got married 2 years ago in New York. I did not change my last name at the time , but now that I am done with school I am ready to change it . The problem is i moved to New Jersey. What is the process that I have to do to be able to change my last name ?
Hi Genesis. Get a certified copy of your marriage record, then go to change your name with at a New Jersey SSA office, then MVC, passport office, etc.
Lived in Florida since 1989, married in Vegas in 1999. After marriage I went to SS and got a new SS card with my married name only. However at the DMV I hyphenated my name with the two (at the time my mother was ill and did not want to go through changing my name on her documents). I file my taxes under the married name. My Passport, W-2 and nursing license come under my hyphenated name.One bill/title/insurance under my maiden name, some under my married name and some under my hyphenated name. Anyway, will I have any problems at the DMV because of the new REAL ID compliant check since my SS card is different than my passport, current DMV license and registration. Or because it is hyphenated I am ok to carry on as usual? Thanks
Hi Melanie. There's a possibility you may be able to carry on considering you have supporting identity documents reflecting your hyphenated name, but you may also face a problem with the name mismatch with your social security card. Consult the Florida Real ID and the supporting gather go get website for further information.
Hello,
I live in NY but was just married in NC on the 16th of may and I am pretty sure I screwed up the last name. When I filled out the license information I put my maiden name and then my maiden name again.Will I need to have my license amended before I can change my last name?
Hi Elena. If there's a typographic error in on your marriage record, you can contact the country register of deeds about obtaining a correction/amendment.
Hey Just got married in nys..didn't take my husband last name..he is about to peption for me..will it be a problem when I go for my interview at immigration..or should I try and change my last name to his..just worried please help
Hi Terry. Name change is optional. Not changing it wouldn't cause a problem.
Thank you Valera…I was a little bite worried.
So it's ok then
Yes, as name change is optional.
Hi! I live in Georgia and got married a year ago, May 2016 here in GA as well. I haven't changed my last name and I would like to do that soon. When we applied for marriage license I informed the clerk from the courthouse that I would take my husband's last name but when I received my marriage certificate it has my maiden name still.So it's my first name and maiden name. What do I need to do now in changing into my husband's last name? Do I just go to SSA or do I need to do another process to request for a name change?
Hi Rebekah. Georgia ask this on the application, so not having it reflected on your certificate can be a problem. If the clerk made an error, you can request an amendment. Trying to use your certificate without the change reflected may not go through.
When I filled out the marriage license I hyphenated my name with my husband last name (lane-smith) and I want all my legal documents ( SSA, etc.) to have the hyphenated name but on my driver's license, credit cards, bank accounts, and etc. can that just be my husband last name?
HI Erica. Perhaps you can work it out with your bank, but it's unlikely to work with the others.
Hi, I am in NYS, recently got my marriage license, and have not done the ceremony yet. At the time of applying for the marriage license, I haven't decided to change my surname, or do a hyphenated last name yet. Will I still be able to make the change on the day of the ceremony?
No, it has to be done on the application, before you're issued the license.
How do I get an original marriage licence if I was married at the court house.
Hi Carol. Contact the office where you license was recorded, which is typically the same that issued it. If you specify the state, I can provide more detail.
Aloha…. I'm currently seeking information about marriages in Vegas and name changes in Hawaii. I live in Honolulu Hawaii but getting married in Vegas. I've heard that Hawaii doesn't recognize legal name change when Married in Vegas. Therefore you must petition with the Lt. Gov of Hawaii for legal name change after the marriage in Vegas… is this correct? Can you shed more light for me please? I'm Planning on an October Wedding in Vegas and trying to figure this out ahead of time and save me some headache!! Thank you for any insight you are able to provide!
Hi Shadybrook. I've not heard of this, nor found any reference to it.
We live in Illinois, but are getting married in California. I still have my California license but will change after marriage as I don't have time to get a new license before our wedding next week.
Do I need to put my maiden name on my certificate since I won't be changing my SS or license in CA but in IL or do I need to put my new name? I'm super confused. I was told illinois won't recognize my marriage certificate if it doesn't have my maiden name?
Please help
Hi Ashleigh. When you apply for your marriage license, put your new name on the part of the form that asks for your new name. It'll be mirrored on your marriage certificate.
Hi I got married 2 weeks ago in Vegas we are both from the UK it was a same sex marriage on the marriage certificate, I would like to take my husbands name but the certificate shows both our names with our separate last names can I just use my certified cirtificate for proof? and take that to my bank ect.
Hi C. Yes, the certificate as-is will work fine.
In California, what would happen if I were to get married and not get all of the name changes? For example, if I changed SS and license and bank, but didn't change it at work?
Hi C. If you didn't change it at work, it can lead to a mismatch with the IRS when your employer submits tax-related documents. The name they report wouldn't match what the SSA and IRS have on file.
Hello, I'd appreciate your help. I've been married for 4 years now and hasn't changed my last name (IL). I have a fancy copy that we got at the day of marriage. As I understood, my first step would be to get a license and certified copies at the Clerk Office, correct? So after that I'd go to SS office and request a new card with new name, then DMV etc. First concern I have is I want to change my last name AND correct my first name (there is one extra letter that needs to go away), where would I do that and if it needs to be done before all this hassle with my last name or there is a way to do it simultaneously?
Secondly, I'm a legal resident and not a citizen yet, so I do have some additional paperwork like work authorization card and green card and foreign passport. Is it possible and how complicated it is to change the name on all of those documents? Is there a different process? Will it affect my out of US travel (since I have a foreign passport with old last name)?
Thank you very much for your help.
Correct.
If there's a typo in your name, you can bring an identity document showing the correct spelling. Something such as a birth certificate.
You can do the correction and changing of your last name together.
USCIS handles names changes on your work authorization and green card. It's not difficult to do. They provide forms for such cases. For your foreign passport, you'll have to consult your country's procedures. As far as travels, your marriage certificate can be used to bridge your old and new name. Carrying your birth certificate with you may also help to bridge the names.
I'm getting remarried in July but always kept my last name from my previous marriage. We had children and wanted to have the same last name. What name do I use for my marriage certificate? Do I use my madien name since I'm divorced or do I have to use the name that is on my SS card and drivers license?
Hi Brandy. Use the name on your SS card.
Greetings,
My fiance is an American citizen and I am officially not yet. I am in the country under a J1 visa. We will get married in a couple of weeks. How should I sign my marriage licence and certificate then ? I know my US residency process will take several months, but we decided I will take his last name. Also, can I start the process to change my name at the DMV, bank, Social Security, etc, even if I don't have a green card yet? Lots of questions, but I want to do everything right. Thank you kindly.
Hi Vivian. Sign your marriage license how it specifies. For the name field, use your current name as it will stand at the time. If it has a blank space for a new name, specify the new name you intend to change to. It's a good idea to change your name during the green card process.
Thank you kindly
Hi, I'm filling out an application for a marriage license in the state of NY. I want to hyphenate my name on the marriage license but I want to keep my maiden name on all other legal documents, ie. Passport, driver's license, social security card. Is it mandatory that I report my new hyphenated name? If I want to change the name on the legal documents listed above will I be able to do so at a later time if I don't do it right after marriage. Is there a time restriction in the state of NY?
No, you don't have to report anything; it's not mandatory.
Yes, you can do it later.
No, there's no time limit.
Hi….I got divorced in NY and kept my husband's last name. I got married in CT again 3 years ago and still using my previous husband's last name. I want to use my actual husband last name. Can Social Security change my last name again. And what do I need to do that.
Thanks for your help
Hi Luciana. Yes, use your marriage certificate to change it.
Hi. We got married in Belize and we live in Idaho. It will take two months to get our certificate, unfortunately. On the certificate, they put down what matched my maiden name, clearly! How do I change that after it arrives in the states? Additionally, can My husband begin the process of putting me on his work insurance before we have the marriage certificate using my maiden name and then update it later? I'm hyphening my maiden name to my husbands name. Thanks
You'd have to contact their registrar for an amendment, which isn't guaranteed will be provided. It wouldn't be necessary to change your name anyway.
Yes.
Hi, my question is, how can I switch my middle name and first name on my marriage certificate. After we got our marriage certificate, we found out that my middle name is written as first name while my first name is written as middle name.
Please what are the steps to take to switch them back to how it appears on my Green card but with my husband's last name as my last name?
Hi Chinnie. You'll have to contact the office where your certificate is filed to inquire about getting it amended, how much it costs (if any), and if there's an affidavit requirement. If there must be an affidavit ask if they provide a fill in form that you can use or if you have to compose it yourself. If you have to compose it yourself, what details must you include.
Hello, I am getting married and like all of my names and want to keep them but I also want to take his last name. Both of our last names are a mouthful and would not be a good combo to hyphenate. My plan is to take his last name, move my maiden name to my middle name and change my first name to include both my first and middle name. So instead of FN: Kerry MN: Lynn LN: Pennington it would be FN: Kerry Lynn MN: Pennington LN: Rolverston. Could I just change it all on the marriage license or do I have to go to court to legally change it this way?
Hi Kerry. You can change the last name as you'd like with your marriage certificate. Same with the the middle, as long as you're not in one of the following states: NJ, OH, PA, WA. First name change would require petitioning the court.
Been married 12 yrs. I took Husbands name. Now 12 yrs later I am wanting to hyphenate with my maiden name. How do I do this?
Hi Kristy. You'd have to petition the court for a general adult name change to change it a second time.
When I married 12 years ago I changed my name (just included his last name to my last name, no hyphen). I'm rolling over a bunch of older retirement plans and I need to fill out a Notice of Change of Name form. It asks the date of my name change and the court name. I live in the state of Washington (Seattle) how do I find this information out?
Court name? What are they referencing?
I got married in Lousiana 3 years ago but I guess I was unsure of how to fill the paperwork and it has my maiden name in it but when I signed my marriage license i used my husbands last name. I still haven't changed any of my documents and now I want to. Will they change it even if my marriage license says my maiden name. I live in Georgia now.
Hi Silvanus. Yes, you should be able to change it fine.
Hi Valera,
My husband and I are residents of New York but got married several years ago on the island of a wahoo in Hawaii. On the marriage certificate my declared last name was a hyphenation of my maiden name and my husband surname. I did this as a nod to my in-laws but have not, and do not intend to, change any of my official documentation such as Social Security card, passport, drivers license, names on financial accounts etc.
Since I know these things can sometimes be state specific I'm wondering technically what my legal name is in case I have to sign future contracts such as loans or mortgages and also when I reapply for a new passport if they will insist on the hyphenated surname?
Thank you!
Typo, make that O'ahu :)
Your legal name is not what's on your Hawaiian marriage certificate. It is your current name, or the name you had prior to getting married. For instance, if your name prior to marriage was your maiden name, then that's what you'll sign. That is still your legal name.
No, they will not insist on it. They shouldn't even know about it, as you wouldn't need to present them with a copy of your marriage certificate. You'd only provide your marriage certificate with a passport renewal if you're changing the name on your passport as a result of marriage. Even if you did unnecessarily show your marriage certificate, they still wouldn't insist upon it.
Hi. Got married a year ago. On my marriage license i intened on taking my husbands last name. After a year i havent gotten around to it and dread it. Changing home title, nurse licensure, dmv, banks credit cards is a lot of work. I wanted to keep using my maiden name. Can i legally do that in Massachusetts? Without doing a name change.
I havent changed my ssc or dmv. Nothing yet. Can i keep using my maiden name?
Hi Rebecca. Changing your name is not required, regardless of what you intended at the time. You can do nothing and keep everything as it is.
Please help. When my husband and I went to apply for the marriage license, the County clerk asked for all kinds of information, SSN, DOB, parents maidens names etc and had us (very quickly) look over the information for no mistakes and now i am worried that i did not look over my SSN for any errors. Does the County clerks office authenticate that the SSN i gave them is an exact and correct match to me through the system? They did not ask me for a SS Card copy, they just wanted word of mouth..i used to have trouble remembering this number, so i just want to know that My SSN is authenticated.
Thank you for helping!
forgot to mention that i am pretty sure i know my correct number, just want to know if it is accurate and checked to my information and put my paranoia to an end.
THanks
Hi Alyssa, it's not likely to be an issue that would result in the invalidation of your license and subsequent marriage. If you're concerned about it, you can contact the clerk to determine if they'd want you to provide verbal or written confirmation of the number. The SSN solicited during the marriage license application process is typically used to perform look-ups for delinquent child support payments.
Hello, thank you for any help you can provide!
My wife and I got married in Rhode Island in 2015, and she kept her maiden name for business recognition. We now live in North Carolina, and want to change both our last names to a completely new last name (combining last names from our ancestors). Can we use our RI marriage certificate to prove our marriage and get new documents (social security, dmv, etc…) with our new desired last name? We each want to keep our current last names as new middle names, do you think this is possible? or do we need to go about doing the standard name change procedures for our state? or could we get remarried in North Carolina and fill out a new marriage certificate here with our desired names? Thank you!!!
Hi Gregory. You would both have to apply for a general adult name by change by petitioning the NC Superior court. You can read more about changing your name in NC, specifically the general adult name change section.
The new name change field was not law at the time of my name change, I got my SSC changed but not my license. When I went to Change it the law change (months after I was married) and now I have to get a court order to fix it (very expensive) is there a way around that?
I'm in California
Hi Ebony. Did you attempt to change it and had your request rejected? If so, did you explain the law wasn't active at the time?
My fiancee and I are getting married in NY in April. I want to have a dual last name, so maiden name husband name without a hyphen. When I went to the NYC clerk's office today, I had filled out the marriage license with my new surname as above, but then they hyphenated it. I told the clerk I didn't want it hyphenated, and he said it could only be hyphenated. However, I know people who have gotten married in NY and have dual last names without a hyphen. Should I go back and get it amended without a new surname to make it easier to change to a dual last name after I have the marriage certificate, or does it not matter at all? Please help!
Hi Melissa. I believe the clerk gave your correct information. Hyphens are allowed, but I do not believe spaced names are. It's one thing to have a space reflected on your marriage license and subsequent marriage certificate, it's another getting it recognized when it comes to changing your name with the necessary institutions.
My spouse and I got married in Dec 2016 in PA (same sex couple). We both kept our maiden names on the marriage certificate. I am now thinking about hyphenating both names. How can I do that? Do I have to go to court or can I just change it at the SS office.
Hi Nelly. You can hyphenate. No need to go to court.
Getting married in the next 15 days. On marriage license I chose to take: my first & husbands last name. I'm not sure I want to change any official documents yet (ss#, DL,etc)..
Do I have to change my official documents? Or can I continue to use my maiden name as I have been without changes? I'm in CA. Thank you
Hi Karina. You don't have to change any documents. It just gives you the option to do so later.
I got married 9 years ago in NV (we live in CA). I have recently decided I want to change my last name so that it's the same as my husband (and children). However, my marriage certificate contains my maiden name. Will I need to file a petition for name change with the court in order to change to my husband's last name? (I would like to move my maiden name to second-middle, and add his last name as my new last name.) Thanks!
Hi Jody. No, you don't need to go to court. Your NV certificate should be sufficient. If you were married in CA and your California certificate didn't show your new married name, then you probably would have had to petition the court. But even for that, it depends on when your marriage took place, and how the California marriage licenses/certificates were designed nine years ago.
This is a point of confusion many have. They live in California, hear that they must specify their new, change-to name on the marriage license, which will ultimately be reflected on the certificate. If they didn't do this, then they'll have to petition the court. But, if a California resident gets married in another state, that rule doesn't apply. So they get their marriage certificate from, say Nevada, which doesn't reflect any new name choice, so they're left wondering if it'll pass muster. It will.
Hello,
I have been reading the comments to try and get an answer to my question but I'm not sure if I am correct.
I got married in Hawaii 2012 and at the time I decided to take my husband's last name; but not in it entirety. My husband has two last names hyphenated, consisting of both of his parents last names.
Example: (moms last name-dad's last name)
On my marriage certificate I have firstname/middlename/husband'sdadlastname as my declared surname.
So I did NOT pick up his moms last name.
I never went to get a SSC or DL so I still have my maiden name. However, I want to take his full last name since our future children will also have that name. We now live in Virginia.
Is taking his full last name possible?
Thank you.
Hi Shy. I don't believe Virginia recognizes that sort of partial hyphenation. You can contact the VA DMV, then SSA for verification.
I got married 2.5 years ago in Hawaii and took his last name. I have never changed my social security card, drivers license, etc. in Missouri. Is there a time limit to do so?
Hi Lisa. No, there's no time limit.
I already filed my taxes, but the IRS declined it because I used my married name and I haven't changed it at the social security office yet. Do I just go to the social security office and apply for a new card and they will submit it to the IRS or are there other steps I need to take?
Hi Jennifer. The SSA won't resubmit your taxes. If you update with the SSA, they'll notify the IRS of the name change. Afterwards, you'll have to refile in your married name. Alternatively, you can refile in your maiden name, which is what will currently match what's on file with the SSA/IRS.
Hi! We applied and picked up marriage license last week. Now we have 90 days to get married. I took my husband's surname as my last name…. I really want to keep my last name as middle name and his last as my last name: first name, my last, his last.
Can I still change it if we did not have ceremony yet? If I will wait over 90 days without ceremony, can I reissued marriage license and apply again and then add my last name as middle one? Thank you for your help!
You may want to check end of the maiden to middle article for a list of states where this is not recognized.
Some states require the new name be specified on the application, so you may need to get it reissued with your preferred name.
You can get it reissued now; you don't have to wait until it expires.
Me and my husband got married a few days ago and I just got the marriage certificate in the mail from the register of deeds but it has my maiden last name instead of my husbands. Not sure what went wrong, does this mean I have to file a petition to change my maiden name to my husbands last name?
Hi Viki. It can depend on the state. For some, it's binding, others not. If the mistake was on the part of the clerk's office, you can request an amendment/correction.
I got married in Punta Cana in December, and they sent me my marriage certificate. It has my maiden last name on it. Will this be a problem when I want to change my last name to my husbands last name?
Hi Kaitlyn. No, it shouldn't pose a problem.
I'm in Maryland and got married in oct 2012 and legally changed my name in April 2015 is it possible to get certified copy of my marriage certificate with new name?
No, it's not possible. It's a historical snapshot, and cannot be changed unless there was a typographic mistake on the clerk's/office's part.
Hello, I'm in Minnesota. When I got married 2 yrs ago I kept my maiden name but now I'd like to take my husbands last name. Can I still use my marriage certificate and just go to the SS office and DMV to change it? What if my maiden name is what I wrote on the marriage license?
Hi Nicole. The name change would have had be specified on the marriage license application so that it would be reflected on the certificate.
Hi I just got married in New York on my marriage certificate my husband last name was not hyphen beside my last name which I think was my error,however how can I go about adding his last name to mine and can it be done at any court house in NY or I have to go back to the court house where I got married?
Hi Nicky. If you're referring to getting your certificate amended, you'll go to where your certificate is filed. If you're talking about petitioning the court, any will do.
It says you can use your spouses name personally and your maiden professionally but doesn't say how to go about that ? I'm ca. If also says that I would of had to of put my maiden as my middle on my marriage certificate in order to do this – can we just get married again for $98 or no?
H
What are you referring to here?
You'd have to contact your county clerk/recorder's office, but I'm not aware of a remarriage option in California. You're likely looking at having to petition the court.
Thanks in advance for your help!
I got married 18 months ago and my marriage certificate reflects my new name. I also have a D.L. with my new name. However about a month ago I got a new S.S. card with my first name, former married name as middle (for business reasons) and new last time. I am now dropping my former married name from use.
Is it possible to get a new S.S. card with my new name even though I just got one?
Hi Katherine. You wouldn't be able to reuse your marriage certificate for a secondary name change. You'll need a new document signifying another name change event. You'd be looking at petitioning the court to get it done.
I got married to my husband on July, 2016, but I didn't take his last name. Now, I really want to change my name on very paperwork that I have, including my marriage certificate. I want my new name stated in my marriage certificate as well. I'm living in Virginia. Will my marriage certificate be changed with my new name on it? And will I have to remarry?
It's unlikely you'll be able to modify your certificate. Amendments are for mistakes, such as typos.
I got married in California just over a year ago and I have not formally gone thru the process of changing my name as I just can't seem to give up my last name. How do I go about changing and adding back in my maiden name to my middle name ?
Hi Sonya. If your marriage certificate has your maiden as middle, then you'd use your certificate to change your name. If didn't specify this choice during the application process, then you'll have to petition the court for a name change. More info can be found on the California name change page.
I Just Recently Married On December 31, 2016 & I Was Wondering Can I Use My Certified Marriage Certificate I Applied In Tennesse In Another State For Name Changes
Hi Shirra. Yes, you can.
My husband and I just recently got married on December 12, 2016. When I filled out our marriage certificate I didn't realize I had to write down my name, middle name and my new last name, instead I filled out the marriage certificate with my full legal name so now on my marriage certificate I don't have my husbands last name, but my dads last name. How could I change my last name?
Hi Jessica. You can contact the office where your marriage certificate is filed to see if they will amend it, but it's unlikely they will unless it's an error on their part.
Hi Valera,
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ANSWERING ALL THESE QUESTIONS.
I got married in September in New York. I did not indicate a "new surname." There is no "new surname" on my marriage certificate. It only says "stephanie madian name" was married to "husband's name."
Can I use this marriage certificate to change my name at the social security office in New York? Or does New York require that a new surname is indicated on the certificate.
Please help! And thank you!
You should be able to still change it even though your certificate doesn't reflect it. Failure to specify your new, intended surname during the NY marriage application process doesn't forfeit your right to ultimately change it later. That goes for your middle name as well.
My husband and I got married in 2010. On my marriage license my name is hyphenated but on everything else including my SS card, drivers license, it only had my husbands last name. Apparently NY state will not fix the marriage license unless we re-marry! We currently live in VA. Is there anything I can do so that EVERYTHING has just my husbands last name on it? Will a legal name change work?
That wouldn't "fix" or replace the old document. They're just issuing you another document. Both would remain publicly recorded and available for copy requests.
Not really. At this point, your marriage license (or certificate, if that's what you're really referring to) is just a historical document. The clerk's office isn't going to correct it unless there's a mistake (e.g., typographical) that's their fault.
No. A legal name change would just be another document allowing you to change your name to something else. It wouldn't amend your marriage license.
Hi Valera,
I Changed My Name in my passport When I Got Married and Then I want to Chang It Back to my single surname.
The reason is i found out that my ex husband is married before we get married. :(
do you think is possible to change back my surname? do have any ideas the procedure.
Hi Maria. You'd need a new document to authorize another name change. Something such a certified annulment or divorce decree. Other than that, you'd have to get a court order.
I got married in Wisconsin where there is no line for married name on the certificate, only for my maiden name. I reside in Illinois so that is where I will be changing my name. Will I be able to do it even though the certificate has me listed as Jaclyn Higgins but my husband's last name is Walsh, so I want my name to be Jaclyn Walsh?
Hi Jaclyn. Yes, you'll be able to change it.
HI, just got married in CA,ready to file my docs through your agency tomorrow. How long does it take to change my last name, to be able to purchase a plane ticket to fly over US?
HI! This is Tatyana again. Can I change my driver license separately in person to speed up the process, and do all other changes with you?
Hi Tatyana. SSA first, in case the DMV queries the SSA database for a name match/mismatch. If you complete it with the SSA, it's worth waiting at least 24 hours for their database to refresh. Then you can go into the driver's license office and get it done there.
Hi Tatyana. Turnaround time is around 2-6 weeks, depending on how many documents need to get changed, how you go about it (mail vs in person), sequence, queue/backlog of the departments, time it takes to get a copy of your marriage certificate, if you don't already have it in your possession.
Hi Valera!
Shall I wait first from SSA, getting my SSN changed, and than send applications to all other places? I'm planning to come in person only to DMV office.
Hi Tatyana. You don't have to wait.
Hello. We were married in NY in April. I hyphenated my last name and my husband's last name on our marriage certificate. I haven't changed my name with SS or DMV yet but I would like to change it to only my husband's last name. Would I be able to to change my last name to just his at the SS office and the DMV without a court order? Thanks!
Hi Jade. You may be able to. You can contact the DMV to confirm. If they wouldn't accept it, you can try to get your marriage certificate amended or opt to get a remarriage marriage license.
Hi. I'm Quianna, I just wanted to know if God forbids anything happens to my husband. Will I be able to take over everything? We do have a marriage license. I just never changed my last name.
Hi Quianna. I don't know what you mean by "take over everything?" Changing or not changing your name doesn't put you at an advantage/disadvantage when it comes to things such as property, insurance, joint accounts, etc, if that's what you're referring to.
Hello I am currently a Florida resident, my soon to be husband lives in Virginia. We are getting married in Florida and moving to Virginia immediately after, as far as the whole name change thing goes… do we have to be present in person here in Florida for copies or the marriage certificate/name change process? Are there other ways around this where it is possible for us handle the process in Virginia or Is this something you suggest us stay extra time to do?
Also, if I have no middle name
Can I move my maiden last name in place of a middle and take his last name?
Hi Vanessa. Yes, that shouldn't be a problem.
No, you can order certified copies remotely.
You can get it done in Virginia.
Hi, I got married in Las Vegas 14 years ago and didn't change my last name then. My marriage certificate shows my maiden name. Now I want to change my last name to my husband's. Will my marriage certificate be sufficient or do I have to go through the court? We live in California since married. Thank you!
Hi Qian. Your marriage certificate is sufficient.
I got married in Las Vegas this year, the certified marriage certificate only shows the maiden name. I live in ND and was wanting to have a double-barreled last name, but I'm unsure if the marriage certificate will suffice to get it changed to that or if I will have to go through the courts? So it would be first middle maiden married. It's hard to know where to start. Thanks!
Hi Clare. Consider contacting the ND DOT to inquire if they'll even accept a double-barreled name change. Hyphenation, sure, but the prior is not guaranteed. If they will, your NV certificate will be sufficient without having to go to court.
Hi, I just got married in Georgia. When we applied for the marriage license they asked for my full name and I gave them my legal name (maiden name) and there was not a spot to indicate what my name was going to be after marriage. Will I still be able to change my name with the social security office and DMV? Or will I have to have it changed on the marriage license/certificate?
Hi Alex. Yes, you'll be able to change it fine. Not every state has a space on the application to specify a new name.
Hi there. I married in Georgie in late July of 2016, and changed my name to first/maiden/his. I moved to South Carolina August 1st, however I claim residency in Georgia as I am only a student in South Carolina (and wanted to keep a Georgia driver's license). I successfully changed my name with the SSA here in South Carolina in August, but have yet to get back to Georgia to update my name on my driver's license. The DDS/DMV website for Georgia says I have 60 days to update my name, but it's been about 5 months. Will I encounter issues at DDS/DMV when trying to update my name if I go there now? Do I need to go to court to eventually get my name changed on my driver's license? Thank you!
Hi Ellen. You should be fine to change your name as your normally would (without court).
Hi, we just got our marriage licence few days ago and didn't change my last name on it. Can i correct it before the ceremony? I would love to have my future husbands last name!!!. Thank you
Yes, you can typically amend a marriage license before you get married. You may be charged a small fee though. Contact the office that issued your license for instructions on how to do so.
Hello,
I was married 4 years ago in the state or Florida and I wrote/sign my marriage license using my Maiden name. I took my marriage license to my local social security office and had my name changed to my first/middle/his last. I am still married but I would like to resume my Maiden name and just hyphenate my husbands name at the end. How do I go about doing this?
Thank you for your time and help.
You'll have to undergo a general adult name change to change it again. Using your marriage certificate won't do you any good, as it's already been used. The FL name change page details the process of going to court.
I got married in Texas back in 2008. I never changed my name to take on my husband's name (I was too lazy to change all the documents.) When we were pregnant with our first child he asked me to change it. I went to SSA in Oregon and they said it had been too long and I needed formal ID in the new name. So I went back to Texas, got a new DL in the married name. I went back to SSA and showed my DL and they turned me away (I really cant remember the reason why). I got frustrated with the process and never went back to SSA. I recently had to renew my DL and I had to go back to my maiden name b/c my DL and SSN did not match. I want to make one more attempt to change my name. What documents will I need?
Certified copy of marriage certificate and driver's license.
Hi,
I got Married in Puerto Rico; in Puerto Rico we do not change last name at marriage. Over a year ago we relocated to FL, how do I go about changing my name to my husband's name?
You'll need to obtain (if you don't already have one) a certified copy of your marriage certificate from Puerto Rico to change your name in Florida.
I am from Canada (BC). Instead of taking my husbands last name or him taking mine. Can we just take a different one? Example – His/Smith Mine/John Married Last Name/Gibbler
Not through marriage. In British Columbia, you'll have to undergo a legal name change.
Hi, I changed my new last name as my maiden name hyphenated with my husband's name. Now that we've settled in and everything, I want to change my last name to just my husband's. Do I need to go back to court and change my now last name to just his last name?
That's right. You have to go to court to change it a second time.
I got married in October in California. i reside in Arizona. I am going to back to California in January. can I go a Social Security office in California to change my last name, or do i have to go to a social security office in Arizona?
* going to back to california for a visit, my family lives there
Hi Megan. You can go to either.
Hi! I just got married last month. In my marriage license I signed my first name and my new last name. When I got back home, I didn't have a chance to change my last name whatsoever. Now, I just want to stick to my original name… how do I go from here? Please help, I am getting overwhelmed.
Just don't do anything. Your name will remain unchanged.
Hi I got married last year in Illinois and I changed my last name to my husbands last name. We live in North Carolina now I want to hyphen my maiden name with his last name… will I need to file for a name change decree.
No, just get a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the Illinois county vital records office.
Hi I get married 2 years ago but back then I did not get my husband last name and now I register my marriage on the Brazilian embassy because we from Brazil and I did get his last name so what I have to do know change my marriage lincense here too and after that change all the other documents ?
Hi Renata. Are you looking to change your name in Brazil or the US?
Hi, I'm trying to get married in Louisiana. When applying for marriage license on application it says last name and then last name before first marriage. Under last name do I put new last name? I was married before and I don't want to see that last name anywhere on this certificate. I still have his last name I didn't change on my drivers license or ss due to immigration. And will I have a problem since my dl still has my ex last name but I don't want to put that name anywhere on the application?
Hi Darinka. Last name before first marriage would not be your ex's. It's typically your maiden name. If you've undergone a non-marriage name change prior to your first marriage, then you'd put that instead of your maiden. So, to be clear, if the name you had just prior to your first marriage was your maiden (birth) name, then put that.
All I have with my maiden name is my birth certificate and expired passport. My driver license shows ex last name. Do you think they'll give me trouble to obtain marriage license? Also I don't know if you'd know this but is Louisiana one of those states that allows you to change to husband last name on marriage application.
No, I don't see where you'd face a problem.
I don't believe Louisiana marriage license applications have a space to specify a new name, although it may vary from parish to parish.
I got married last year.. On my marriage certificate I put my dad's name and my husbands name…. like an hyphenated surname…
Now I really want to stop using a hyphenated surname..I just want to use my husband surname. How do I go about doing that?
What's the first step??
Please help me…
Hi Nikki. If you've not already formally changed your name, your DMV may be willing to honor just taking your husband's surname. Depending on the state/agent/office, how strict or flexible they'll be can vary. If you've already changed your name with the SSA and DMV, then you'll have to get a court order to change it again.
I read that in Massachusetts you can change your surnames to whatever you want. Is this true? If my last name is White and his last name is Black, can we list an entirely different surname (e.g. Gray) on the license?
If we get married in a state where there is no place to put intended new last name on the license, what are our options when we go to social security? Can we choose any surname, or do we have to choose mine, his, a hybrid name (like Whick), or a hyphenated surname (e.g. White-Black)? If we get married in a state where there is no place to put intended new last name, would we each have to go to court to change our last name to Gray or Whick as if we did not ever even get married?
Thanks!
No, I don't believe that is true.
You'd just use the marriage certificate as-is.
Universally accepted options would be to hyphenate or to take his last name. Hybrids, or composite names, are rarely accepted.
You'll just use your marriage certificate as-is. No need to go to court.
i was wondering i got married 20 years ago, i have a confidential marriage license. well after all these years my husband wants me to have his last name. how can i go about doing this. do i have to petition the courts for a legal name change. i kept my last name for personal reasons at the time. please help
i live in Los Angeles California.
Hi Carolina. You may be able to use your marriage certificate as-is, considering your marriage took place prior to passage of the name equality act. Get a certified copy of your marriage certificate to push through your name change.