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 was married last October and took my husbands last name. We live in MN, I got my new social security card this summer but haven't done my DL yet for reasons of being out of state, not having time. I looked into doing it this weekend and just realized it says I have to do my DL within 30 days of my new SS card. What will happen when I go to do it this weekend?
Nothing, really. It's not like they'll penalize you. The logic of it being there is: A) to motivate people to keep their records up-to-date, and B) if they do catch you doing something nefarious that's one extra knock they have against you. So, just coming in way later to update your license isn't going to jam you.
Hi there,
I am changing my name in WA but was married in IL recently. If I am sending in my application will an original copy of my marriage certificate suffice (has my maiden name and my husbands name, but not my new name on it)? Do I also need to send in proof of identify with my picture (license/passport) in which case I am guessing I would have to go to the office sense I need the original?
Thanks,
Molly
Hi Molly. You'll be fine to change your name as long as you send in a certified copy of your marriage certificate and not a photocopy. If you're referring to the SSA, then you'll want to send in proof of your identity, such as your passport. You can do so by mail or in office. If you're doing it by mail, then they'll mail back your marriage certificate once they're done processing your form.
Hi there,
I got my marriage license yesterday and decided to change my surname to my husband's surname. However, the marriage will be done today – when I mail the paperwork.. Do I have the option of writing a note when I have the documents mailed that I want to keep my maiden name .. Even though I changed when I completed the application?
Also, if I cannot do anything now – would it be okay If I do not change my name legally and keep my maiden name? Thanks for your help!
Hi RC. If you ultimately choose to keep your maiden name, then you needn't be concerned with what's on your marriage license. It won't affect anything.
I cant get an id until I change my social security name. I cant fly to manila to get my marriage liscence. I checked confidential marriage liscence. I must appear in person. I need a passport cant get on without an id . Please help. Originally had liscence and dmv saw it but not ss
Hi Linda. Are you saying you've unsuccessfully tried to acquire a copy of your foreign marriage certificate through the mail?
Hi, My name is salicia and I wanted to know exactly what I needed to do first to get my name changed me and my husband got married last month so what would be the first step to take for me to change my last name, this will be my first time so I am very lost in what I need to do first.
Hi Salicia. You'll want to get a certified copy of your marriage certificate from your vital records office. Then use it to assist with updating your federal and state documents, such as your SSA, driver's license, and passport. Other non-governmental organizations should be updated as well (e.g., banks, credit cards, doctor offices, online accounts, employer). If you're moving, notify the post office and any other entity that needs to update their records. A photocopy of your marriage certificate is typically sufficient proof for non-governmental institutions.
Do I put my husband's last name on the request for Certified Copy Of Marriage License or my maiden (last) name? I want to drop my maiden (last) name. I am so confused, I don't want to get a certificate that has my maiden name on it.
Hi Robbie. If you need to obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate then they're just going to send you what's on file. You'll have to supply the name that matches what's on file. So, use whichever name was applied when it was registered so that their lookup will pull up your record.
I made the mistake of changing my drivers license but not my SS card. Now that it is time to renew my DL I can't until my SS card is changed. What if I have changed my mind and just want to stick with my maiden name. What process will I need to follow for MT.
Hi Dana. You can revisit the DMV, explain that you've decided not to update your SS, then see if they'll change it back. They may be willing to exercise some flexibility for your situation. Still, you should be prepared for the possibility of them turning down your request unless you can provide a court order.
Hi Valera,
I'm about to get married next month in San Diego, CA. Both my Fiancé and I are not born in the USA, but are legally present. My question is; we don't want to use either of our Last Names, because we simply don't like them, but use a totally New one, is this allow in the Marriage Certificate or we have to go through the court first in order to do this process? Also do you have any knowledge if changing to a New Last Name would cause any issues/delays/consequences since we're still in our immigration process?
I would really appreciate your timely response! :)
Hi Sucy. At best, you can construct a new last name that's based on a segment of either spouse's current last name or birth name. Otherwise, you'll have to petition the court. Name change during immigration is a common occurrence. You'll want to make sure things are kept up to date across all your documentation.
Hi! My husband and I just received our marriage certificate from the city clerk. However, we will be relocating very shortly. So I was wondering if I could change my SS card and license with just the original certificate in one day (go to the SSA office in the morning, then DMV right after). Will the SSA keep the original if I apply for the name change in person? Will the DMV accept a receipt from the SSA as a verifiable SSN, along with my old social security and marriage certificate? Thanks!
Hi Kat. It's typically a good idea to space the SSA and DMV over 24 hours so that the SSA's database has enough time to update if the DMV queries it for a name match. No, the SSA will not keep your marriage certificate if you're going in person.
Hi,
Just to clarify. I know you mentioned that a marriage license once it has been signed by the officiant and returned, is technically considered the certificate. Is this correct? I live in the state of Texas. Please correct me if I am wrong.
Also, do you recommend going to the SSA office or the DMV first? Or does it really matter which one is done first?
Thank you!
Sandra
In some regions, that is the case. The document can be the same. It's just the status that changes. The document returned to you following the marriage ceremony is what's considered your certificate.
SSA first, just in case the DMV queries their database for a name match/mismatch.
Hi,
I am about to get married in NY, and I am moving to PA immediately after the wedding. I'm not sure if I want to change my name yet and if I were to change it I'm not sure what I would change it too (ie. hyphenate or use just his). If I keep my maiden name for now and change my mind in a few months can I change it then? Would a NY marriage license without the name change listed suffice to do all the paperwork in PA?
Thanks!
Yes, you can change it later. There isn't a time limit attached to changing your name.
Yes, your NY marriage certificate would be usable.
HI,
Live in SC and got married in NV. I was wondering if I change my name by hypenating it, do I have to change every document or just DMV and SS? I am assuming that since I will be keeping my last name first-his name that I wont have to change mortgage documents etc
Hi Valerie. You don't have to update additional documents, although it's generally a good idea to eventually have your remaining documents synced with your new name.
I got married in Buffalo, NY 3 years ago. My husband has 2 last names cause he was not in Puerto Rico and I only wanted to take his first last name. When I went to fill out the marriage license they told me I had to put both of his last names for legal reasons. When I did my research after I got married I found that info was incorrect. If I try to change my name now with my marriage certificate that shows both my husband's last name will it cause legal issues if I only use his first last name?
Hi Gessenia. No, you shouldn't face any such issues.
I got married in NYC and did not opt to change my name at that time. My marriage license listed my maiden name and my husbands name. I live in New Jersey and I am not ready to change my name at the Social Security office. Will they accept my husband's last name, even though I did not legally change it at the time of marriage in New York?
Hi Keri. Yes, that shouldn't pose a problem.
Hi! I got married in 2011 and left the NEW NAME on marriage certificate blank. In short I did not change my name. Now, I want to have my husband's last name, so I want it from
FIRST MIDDLE MAIDEN to
FIRST MAIDEN HUSBAND'SLASTNAME.
I went to SS office, showed them my marriage certificate and they had no problem changing my records. Now I went to DMV (I live in CA) and they did not accept my marriage certificate saying it was too old. They said I have to have my records changed (or that blank filled up). Should I have to go to court??
I was thinking too, maybe I should change my name first in my military ID (husband's in the Navy) and then go back to DMV for a new card. Do you think they would accept that? Because I've checked their website and it's stated that I only have to show them a document with my new name. Would really appreciate your help.
Hi Mika. Contact the DMV to determine if your updated military ID and/or updated social security card would be an accepted document. They said you could try to have your certificate modified to fill the blank space? You could give that a try, but amendments to such records are typically not allowed unless it's a clerical error. Contact your county clerk for guidance about having it changed. If none of that works, then you're likely looking at having to go to court.
Hello…I've been married for 3 months now, and have not changed any documents except my health insurance card, as I joined his. On our Marriage license I opted for the drop your middle name, use the last name and added his surname. I felt like that was the least painful, and since I have grown kids, would like to keep the last name the same as theirs. I honestly don't want to lose my name, change everything, and it's stressing me out, wondering if I'm going to get into some kind of trouble, later!! What would happen if I DONT change all of my IDs, bank account, car title, house title?? Is it legal to use that surname only for some things but not for others?? If something happens to my spouse, would I have trouble proving I'm his wife?? HELLLLP!! Lisa
Hi Lisa. Name change is optional. As long as you use your actual legal name on legal documents/context, you'll be fine.
Thank you, Valera!!
I am trying to change back to maiden name, but i dont have a copy of my original marriage license. Do i teally need it to change my name back?
Hi Stephanie. You'll need to get a court order to return to your maiden name, not your marriage license.
Oohhh ok,Thanks!
Hi there – I just read through all of the questions to see if mine was asked already, but my case is a bit different so didn't see it covered here. I was married in Oklahoma 6 years ago, and did not intend to change my name, so only my first, middle, and maiden is listed on my marriage license. Now, 6 years later I want to change to my husband's last name in the state of Virginia and had a few questions:
– is my marriage license with my maiden name sufficient to change my surname after this much time?
– is it possible to have a (non-hyphenated) double last night with my maiden and spouse's last name, or – if I still want to hang on to my maiden name somewhere – would it be better to add my maiden name to my middle name instead?
– once a SSN is changed to a new name, is this sufficient proof to change other identification documents that might have different standards (e.g. marriage license must state married name, etc)?
Yes, you can still change your name after several years have passed. You'll want to get a certified copy of your Oklahoma marriage certificate though.
Double-barreled surnames are possible, but you'll still want to contact a driver's license office to confirm if they'll recognize and apply it.
That's a viable option. See the maiden to middle name article for further information.
It primarily impacts your driver's license. The driver's license office may query the SSA database for a name match before processing a name change on their end. For other documents, you'll use your marriage certificate as proof.
Hello, I have a question so I'll do my best to sum this one up for asking. A bit complex, at least to me lol.
So my wife and I have been married for nearly 5 years, we both never really took each others last names but on the certificate it lists her taking mine. I don't know why but out of the blue I really wanted to take my wife's last name instead. So I guess you can say this is the instance in which I wish a time machine were invented so I could go back and tell myself to take her maiden last name.
Will this be a problem in changing my last name now? I currently reside in Florida, in the Coast Guard full active duty. And full Florida Resident. We got married in Lake Tahoe, CA.
Is there a website in which I could order all the paperwork or something? Thanks a million! :D
Hi Ethan. You would have to petition the court to take your wife's name.
Hello, my fiancée and I have applied for a marriage license but her last name on the certificate is her maiden name, she is planning to change her last name to mine. My question is does her name on the certificate need to match the name she wants or can she still just use the marriage certificate as proof to change her name?
Typically, it serving as proof of marriage is sufficient, but some states (such as California) want the name on the certificate to match the eventual name change.
Hello my question is, do I really have to change my last name to my husband last name? On my marriage license has only my husband last name. I don't know if it's a requirement to do so. We just got married 5 months ago.
No. It's completely optional.
Hello!
My fiancee and I are planning on going and getting married 2 years prior to our actual ceremony, and don't really want to inform anyone else about it. We have already agreed upon a name that we want to legally change our names to, but do we have to do all of this name changing documentation right when we get our marriage license. Can we put it off for two years, or do we need to do it right away? I really want to go ahead and put the name we want in the future on the marriage certificate because I don't feel like we can go back and change our mines later. Any advice would be appreciated!
Sure, you can put off changing your names until later.
If I change my last name on my marriage certificate do I have to legally change my name on all other documents?
Hi Cierra. No, it's optional. You can choose not to change your name.
I had the same questions. Will I had issues in the future if my marriage license says a different name than my legal one that I never ended up changing? Thank you, this website has been very useful.
Hi Amanda. No, you will not have any problems with that.
When I got married, I did not include my husbands name as my newly legal name on the marriage certificate (in San Mateo County, CA). Do I need to get a name change (via the courts) in order to change my name to my husband's name? or can I just go the SSN/DMV offices with a certified copy of my marriage certificate to change? Thanks in advance for your help!
Hi Carol. While you may not face difficulty with the SSA, you may with the DMV looking to apply such a standard.
I'm trying to change my ss card online, they said they need the originals of my marriage license, DL, and birth certificate. How do I get an original copy of my DL to send to them? Obviously, I can not send my actual DL, I'll need it.
Hi Jill. You can submit in person by locating the SSA office closest to you.
I was divorce and remarried and when I applied for the license I told the clerk drop my first husband name and use only my maiden name along with my now husband and he used my the name from my previous mariage and put it in front of my maiden name. How do I correct this
Hi Anita. You can try returning to the clerk and request it be amended or reissued, citing their mistake.
I live in New York and I am planning on turning my maiden name into my middle name and taking my (future) husband's surname. However I am planning to do this after our honeymoon. I am confused because New York gives you the option of changing your surname when you apply for the marriage license, but does not let you change your middle name with this application. Should I put the surname change in the license application, or should I keep my maiden name there and change everything (with SSA, DMV, etc.) after the honeymoon?
Thanks
Hi Youri. When submitting your application, you can go ahead place your new surname choice in the provided space. New York doesn't provide the option of switching maiden with middle, although some folks have asserted creative ways to make it work.
I can go to my local clerk of court to get a certified copy even if I was married in a different county within the same state
Hi Sherri. You have to get your certified copy from the county where the marriage took place. By the way, you don't have to travel in-person to your county clerk's office — you can order a certified copy of your marriage certificate by mail. They will charge a fee though, which is typically reasonable.
I keep reading that I have to have my new name in some sort of publication for 5 weeks, is this true if I only want to take on my husband's name? Also we have been married for years and now I have decided to take on his name, will that be an issue?
Hi Melissa. You can read further about publishing a name change notice in your local newspaper. But, since you're opting for a basic, marriage-based name change, you don't have to go that route. Acquire a certified copy of your marriage certificate to serve as the document that will facilitate your name change.
Hi. I love in Georgia and got married 3 years ago. When I got married I told the officiant that I wanted to hyphenate my last name to add my husband's last name. However, I never changed anything. My husband asked me to update all of my documents to reflect my new hyphenated name recently. I was reading in to see what I needed, and I pulled out my marriage license and marriage certificate today and realized that EVERYTHING only says my first and maiden name. Nothing reflects my name as I wanted it to appear, hyphenated. At this point I wanted to drop my last name and just take on his, but nothing shows his last name as mine. It's almost as if I never got married. My name is Linda Ruvalcaba and his is Rene Heredia. I I requested my name to appear as Linda Ruvalcaba Heredia. But I just realized both the marriage license and certificate only say Linda Ruvalcaba! I'm devastated, what can I do to fix this because I know it's going to be an issue if I go to SSN and DMV to get new id's. I would really appreciate you feedback.
Thank you!:)
Hi Linda. You should be fine. The marriage certificate serves as proof of marriage, which allows you to change your name. Just take it with you to process your preferred name change, as you normally would.
When I mail in my Social Security paper for the name change, will a photo copy of my marriage certificate be sufficient?
Hi Kelsey. It must be a certified copy of your marriage certificate and not a photocopy. Otherwise, it will be rejected.
Hi my name is Blanca and I have been married for over a year now. we were married in Virginia and have moved since to Florida I'm going to Virginia for Christmas this year (2014) and was wondering if I should go and change my name On the Marriage certificate to start off? While I'm up there? ?
sincerely, Blanca
Hi Blanca. Name changes on marriage certificates aren't typically allowed unless there's a mistake on it.
I'm still a bit confused about what parts exactly of the name changing process this service helps with. You listed a lot of possible things that may need a name change and I'm wondering if I could get a better idea of which ones can be done with the service and which I'll have to do in person? Another question I have is will I need to change my name on credit cards that have went into collections if I'm including them when I file for bankruptcy? Thanks for all the great info, it's making this task seem slightly less overwhelming.
Hi Christine. You can learn about what's covered on the get started page. You can update the name on your credit cards that are going into collection using a provided form letter, but it's worth contacting your bankruptcy attorney to see if they think it's necessary and worth the effort.
However you decide to complete your name change, it's advisable to update your record with the SSA first and then follow-up with your various the financial institutions. Such requests can be done in writing when supplemented with a copy of your marriage certificate.
Hi. How many copies of my marriage certificate do I need to get? I mean certified copies. Can I just get one and use that for everything?
You'll need to get at least one. It has to be a certified copy or your original. Photocopies won't do for the majors (e.g., SSA, passport). When you send out your original, they'll mail it back to you after processing. So you won't end up losing it or having to acquire another one. For other organizations, such as your bank, a photocopy will suffice.
The downside of getting only one copy is that you'll have to change your name one institution at a time, which'll increase the turnaround time. It's nothing really major, as it's still a quick process, but it's something to keep in mind if you're on a timeline.
when I divorced for the 3rd time, I had to jump through many hoops to change everything back to my maiden name. It took 6 trips to dmv because they didn't tell me I needed to get certified copies of all marriages and divorces to show all my last names.
I had to show my ssCard which I didn't have. I had to send for my birth ceritifcate proving my name was "so and so", but luckily I had all my certified copies except for the last but anyway, dmv knew id made many trips back and fourth and they accepted all my forms. I just remarried recently but I think I'm gonna keep my maiden name for a while.