Name Change After Marriage in New York

Name Change After Marriage in New York

New York offers a number of generous name change options. It's important to note that while you can unofficially adopt a new name in this state just by using it, in the vast majority of circumstances, a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order will be required to make it official, such as in governmental, academic or professional documents. There are a number of facts you need to know before you decide to seek a change of name within the state of New York or New York City (NYC).

You may even choose to complete your name change forms using an online name change application.

First Step… Getting Your Marriage License

If you are intending to get married in the State of New York you have to apply for a marriage license in person in any of the state's city or town clerks. Remember the license application has to be signed by the applicants before a city or town clerk. You cannot send a representative to apply for the license for you (acting as a proxy) whether he/she has the power of attorney or not. Even a marriage license affidavit that has been notarized cannot substitute personal appearance of the applicants.

The issuance of a marriage license is immediate in New York, but the marriage ceremony itself might not happen within a day/24 hours after the issuance. Applicants who are 16 years old and above can have the 24 hour marriage ceremony waiting period waived by a Supreme Court justice in the County Court where any of the applicants live. If any of the applicants is less than 16 years old the Family Court judge within the county where the individual resides has to give the order. The marriage license given is usually valid for two months starting from the day it was issued.

The cost of the marriage license varies depending on where you are applying for it. Those living within the State of New York but outside the City of New York will have to part with $40. A Certificate of Marriage Registration is included in the fees. The marriage certificate will be sent automatically to the applicants by the town or city's issuing clerk in 15 or less calendar days once the officiant has completed the license and returned it to the town clerk.

For those in the City of New York, the license is issued by the City Clerk and the fees to be paid vary from time to time. Contact the office of the New York City Clerk for the requirements and current fees.

Remember, proof of identity and age has to be provided, especially for teenagers/young adults who wish to get married. Such proof includes a Census record, naturalization record, record of baptism and birth certificate. Identity documents that must be produced also include an immigration record, picture ID of employment, passport, and driver's license.

A marriage license in the state of New York is only valid within the state. If you intend to get married outside the State of New York the marriage license offered in the state cannot be filed with any New York city or town clerk.

To get copies of a marriage license that has been issued within the State of New York, except within the five New York City boroughs, the marriage record's certified copy can be obtained in the city or town clerk's office who issued the marriage license or from the Department of Health of New York. The cost is $10 per certified copy, if you obtain it from the city or town clerk who issued it. Those applying from the Department of Health in New York have to part with $30 per certified copy.

Your marriage certificate will serve as the primary document used to facilitate your name change after marriage in New York.

Marriage Name Change

In New York, you are permitted to change the surname (last name) after marriage. However, the law does not allow you to change a first name through the union of marriage. You must remember that while the surname can be changed after marriage, if you want to, it doesn't happen automatically. The law doesn't force anyone to change their name after marriage, as it's a personal, non-binding choice, nor is it a legal requirement to have a similar surname with your spouse.

New York does allow changing your middle name to your maiden name. This has been a point of confusion for several years, with some successfully completing a maiden to middle swap, while others running into a brick wall of opposition. Specifically, difficulty with changing the middle name on your NY driver's license. However, since 2014, a procedural change pushed by NY Assemblyman David Buchwald clarified rules to make certain that applicants wanting to drop their middle name by replacing it with their maiden name is allowed as part of the regular married name change process.

If you decide to change the surname, know that the change is believed to take effect right away after you have completed the marriage ceremony. The spouse willing to change their surname will simply enter it in the application form. However, the new name will have to conform to four main options for the surname. The first option is taking the surname of either the wife or husband, any previous surname of the wife or the husband, a new name combination forming a single surname, and combining the surname with the last name but separating it using a hyphen as far as every part of the surname combination is a pre-marriage last name or a previous last name of any of the couple.

Essentially, this means you will end up with a clear legal record showing you decided to change a surname via the act of marriage. The marriage certificate is a proof that your new surname is lawful. Failure to change your name through marriage certificate or doing it does not mean you cannot adopt another surname in future through usage; the state of New York allows you to adopt a new name that you want just by using it as frequently as you can without any bad intention, such as defrauding the public.

As much as the marriage certificate allows you to legally change your name in New York, you must notify the right governmental and non-governmental agencies of the change, such as the Social Security Administration, Department of Motor Vehicles of the State, credit card companies and loyalty clubs, among others.

Divorce Name Change

After divorce, you can change your name legally if you have a certified copy of your New York divorce decree, identification such as passport or driver's license, and proof of your age such as a birth certificate. Look at the divorce decree to ascertain if there is a name change provision on it. In case there is, the document is the legal proof you need to change your surname.

Sometimes this is usually left out and you need to contact the New York court that handled the case and request an amendment be made on the final divorce document. Since not every court in the state allows amendments, the request could be denied, but you can always complete the process by filing an adult name change petition. In New York, you can ask the court to allow you to resume your previous name. In fact, the maiden name resumption request includes any kind of surname you might have been using in the past. This includes the use of a last name from a prior marriage, whether through divorce or from being widowed.

In case you have made the decision to revert to a birth name or previous name, you might want to request your attorney to ask the court to have the name change order as part of the divorce judgment. The certified copies you receive of the divorce order can then be used to change your name with the Social Security Administration, DMV, and other nongovernmental institutions. A name change order specified directly within your divorce decree prevents you from having to go through a court petitioned name change afterward.

General Adult Name Change

You can request a name change that's not related to a marriage name change or change of name through divorce. The adult name change is done by filling out a form to petition the New York State Supreme Court to effect the name change. In New York, you can only do this if you are at least 18 years of age, not incarcerated, on parole or probation and you don't need to have the change of name kept private for any reason, including safety. However, those applying for a name change due to their own safety should go through their lawyers or, in case of domestic problems, seek the help of a domestic violence counselor.

It's also important to note that only residents of New York City can request a name change in the Civil Court of New York City. Residents of the wider State of New York must use the Supreme Court within their respective counties.

Name change in New York is done through a birth certificate and a petition. Enter personal information and complete the name change petition accordingly. You need to also publish the name change in a newspaper unless the judge asks you not to due to safety reasons. After signing the petition using the legal name you're using currently, ensure it has been notarized. In case you do not have a birth certificate copy, request one if you were born within the state of New York.

Immigrants with status within the United States and living in New York can change their names in the state legally; immigrant documents can be used if the birth certificate is not available.

Take the papers to the court clerk and pay the $65 fee and receive a hearing date from the clerk. Depending on the judge hearing your case, the proceedings can be completed really fast. If you are asked to publish your name in a newspaper, the court clerk will provide a name change order copy a judge has already signed and you must publish the order within two months of the signing of the order. Provide proof of the publication within 90 days after the signing of the order.

Sometimes the name change order indicates the specific newspaper to publish the order, but in most cases you have the choice to choose the paper you want. Take the proof of publication to the court clerk, and if it's accepted, the name change process is done. Buy a number of certified copies for about $6 each, which you can always acquire additionals if you need more. The certified copy is what you use to request name change on diverse governmental bodies, such as the Social Security Administration and DMV.

Child Name Changes

In New York, a minor is a person who is 17 years of age and below. Child's name change can only be requested by an adoptive parent, biological parents, next friend or legal guardian but it's not an adoption. It's also worth noting that changing the name of a child to the domestic partner's or spouse's name can be done legally but won't make any of you the child's parents, legally. For instance, children from previous relationships whose names have been changed to the names in the current relationship doesn't make the new spouse the legal parent of the child, which is only completed through adoption.

The judge must be furnished with good reasons why the child's name needs to be changed and has to be in the minor's best interest. The facts the judge will consider include the parents motives or interests, what the minor wants, while considering the experience and age of the child, the effect of the change of name to the relationship of the child with that of either parent, the period the name has been used by the minor including any harassment, embarrassment or problems the child might have gone through from the use of the new or present name.

Note that if a biological parent is alive, including a legal guardian or adoptive parent, they must provide written permission allowing the court to continue with the process. A child who is about 14 years of age and below 18 can give name change permission to the court by signing the Minor Consent before a notary and handing the name change petition together with the Minor Consent form to the court clerk.

Essentially, you need a Name Change Petition and Judicial Intervention Request filed, including a signed Change of Name Order, publication notification on an agreed or any local New York newspaper, Publication Affidavit and changing the name of the minor with such agencies as the New York DMV and Social Security Administration.

Name Change on a Birth Certificate

If you were born in any county outside New York City you need a court order to effect a name change on a birth certificate. The order should have the seal of the court and court clerk certified; a publication proof is needed. Ensure the order also has the place of birth, date of birth, and name clearly indicated.

Submit to the Bureau of Vital Records within the New York State Department of Health a completed Correction of Certificate of Birth Application and a notarized affidavit or certified copy of your current birth certificate to confirm you are at least 18 years old. Nonetheless, a court order might not be required to correct a mistake on a birth certificate.

Changing a Passport

If you want to change your name on your passport after a successful name change process, the procedure is very clear. Remember, spelling or printing errors such as place of birth, gender or incorrect name is done free if the validity of the passport is not in question. However, if you have changed your name due to marriage, adult name change or divorce you must send an application for a fresh passport. Depending on the time your current passport was provided, the cost and the process vary. For instance, if one year after the issue of the current passport is not over, processing fees won't be required.

If you're in a time crunch and in need of getting your passport updated quickly, you can requested expedited processing for an additional fee. This fee would be applied to any passport application, regardless of the age of your passport. Be aware, that if you have immediate travel plans you may want to consider the continued use of your maiden name on your passport until after you have finished your travel plans.

Social Security, DMV, IRS Name Change

Before you can change your name with the Department of Motor Vehicles in New York, you need to report the legal change of name to the Social Security Administration, since the DMV needs to verify the Social Security Number and database record name change first.

Change of name with the social security office can be done via mail or in person. Make sure you have a Social Security Card application dully completed, document certifying the name change, such as a court order, divorce decree or marriage certificate, including proof of identity through documents such as ID cards issued by the state, a United States passport or a driver's license.

U.S. citizenship proof is also required, such as a birth certificate, naturalization or citizenship certificate. It's important for all documents to be either certified copies or originals. Once the Social Security Administration records are updated, approach the New York Department of Motor Vehicles in person to change your name on your vehicle registration, ID card or driver's license and the vehicle certificate of title. These changes cannot be done via email, by phone or mail.

Name Change on Non-governmental Institutions

Once you have clearly updated all your government issued documents from state IDs, SSA, Internal Revenue Service and your Driver's License, go ahead and update information on non-governmental institutions as well, such as medical documents, banks accounts, loyalty club memberships, credit card companies and insurance, among others.

If you have moved, you'll also want to notify the USPS (United States Postal Service) of your change of address and new name. This will allow the forwarding of mail addressed to your old name to be sent to your new address. When you get mail addressed to your old name, be certain to contact those organizations and have your name record updated.

If necessary, be sure to change the name on your professional documents and diplomas. Some professions require notifying your respective New York state licensing boards to determine if a change of name requires notification and reissuance of your business documents. While some may require your professional license be updated within state record, that doesn't necessarily mean you will be required to have your diploma, license, or certificate reprinted and reissued.

You may be able to continue using your prior or maiden name in your professional life while making certain your state licensing board is made well aware of your official name change.

Remember, apart from the divorce decree, marriage certificate, or a name change court order, you might be asked to provide extra documents of identification.

Name Change Recognized Documents

While seeking a name change in New York State, there are a number of documents you should have among others. These include:

  • Certified copy of marriage certificate for marriage name change.
  • Certified copy of divorce decree for divorce name change.
  • Court order for general adult name change.
  • Proof of identification, such as a driver's license, NY state ID or passport.
  • Proof of age such as an adoption decree, birth certificate or certified hospital record.

Our name change kit helps you change your name, either before or after marriage.

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289 Comments

  1. Hi! Do remarriages for a name change in New York have legal implications? As in, act as a marriage termination event or void the original marriage?

  2. Hi! I got married in Pennsylvania but live in NY. My marriage certificate did not have an option for a name change field so it only has my maiden name on it. It also says docket # on the marriage certificate, instead of license #.

    I went to my local SSA office in NY, but they did not accept my ORIGINAL marriage certificate from Pennsylvania because it did not show my new surname, or say license #.

    After review, I got a letter saying that they could not give me a new social security card and to bring my original marriage certificate, when that is what I did in the first place. I am so confused on what I should do and why they won't accept my original marriage certificate.

    • Hi Andrea. It's possible the NY SSA clerk is so used to NY marriage certificates that they were caught off guard encountering another state's certificate that doesn't list a new married name.

      If this is the case, the clerk you encountered made a mistake and you can try again with another clerk or office and explain their misinterpretation.

      The alternative explanation is that your "original" marriage certificate is not the same as a "certified copy" issued by the custodian of the original record.

      If this is the case, you'll need to purchase a certified copy from the Pennsylvania Clerk of Orphans' Court office where you obtained your marriage license.

  3. Hi, I got married in NYC and didn't change my name. I would like to register my marriage in my birth country. They are not allowing me to keep just my maiden name (I have to get my husband's last name or add his last name to my maiden name).

    I researched and found out two options; one option is to remarry and the other one is to go through NYC Civil Court. Are there disadvantages to remarrying? Sounds like we will have two different marriage dates, would that be a problem? I can go through the court but remarrying seems way faster.

    • Are there disadvantages to remarrying? Sounds like we will have two different marriage dates, would that be a problem?

      No, it's just a useful option that New York provides that most states don't.

  4. How can one update a name change (through marriage) in NYC LLC documentation? We have a few companies registered in NYC with my wife's maiden name.

    Also, should someone change the name on mortgage documents in NYC and how?

    Would a name change have any legal effect on any ongoing court proceedings, i.e. if a claim has been filed with a NYC Court under the old name can or should it be changed to new name without refiling the whole case?

    • How can one update a name change (through marriage) in NYC LLC documentation? We have a few companies registered in NYC with my wife's maiden name.

      You could update the LLC operating agreement. But your wife does not have to update her operating agreement due to changing her name change.

      should someone change the name on mortgage documents in NYC and how?

      Changing one's name on the mortgage after marriage is optional. If you want to make the change, contact your lender. They'll explain their procedure. In most cases they'll provide you a form to mail or fax back, along with a copy of your marriage certificate.

      Would a name change have any legal effect on any ongoing court proceedings

      You'll have to contact the court clerk about this. They may suggest attaching an addendum to your court documents. You wouldn't have to start over. Just a bit of extra paperwork.

  5. Hi Valera,

    My case is as follows: I got married a month ago and my partner asked that I take one of his names by last name and put it that way on the marriage license… It turns out that now I have to have his real last name because he would have to change all your documentation to use that name as your last name…

    He tells me that we have to get married again (remarriage) to give me the real surname… My question is: can this be corrected without making another marriage or marriage license? Or do we really have to get married again?

    • My question is: can this be corrected without making another marriage or marriage license?

      No, you can't modify your recorded marriage license or certificate to change the new name.

      Or do we really have to get married again?

      Correct.

  6. My father had a civil wedding to my stepmother in NY about 1-2 years before their church wedding. He passed away last year I am trying to settle his estate with no cooperation from my stepmother.

    Is there any way I can look up when my stepmother legally changed her last name to find out when the civil wedding took place? NY does not release marriage certificates to anyone other than a spouse unless both spouses are dead and 50 years have elapsed since their marriage. Thank you!

    • Hi Mark. Name change revisions are held by the Social Security Administration, which you wouldn't have access to.

  7. Your responses are awesome. In applying for a NYC (not state) license their sample shows under bride same last name as husband "Smith" but usually the bride's last name would be different.

    So under "NEW SURNAME" is that where one inserts husbands surname if the bride chooses to carry her husband's name?

    Under parent's names for father and mother it has different surnames for each. But if the mother carries the same surname as her husband would it not be the same? Or does the mother have to insert her maiden name before marriage?

    • So under "NEW SURNAME" is that where one inserts husbands surname if the bride chooses to carry her husband's name?

      Correct.

      But if the mother carries the same surname as her husband would it not be the same? Or does the mother have to insert her maiden name before marriage?

      It should distinguish. Saying something like "name, or maiden name if applicable." Mother's maiden name is preferred for genealogical purposes.

      • Thank you Valera

        it just says:

        Mother/Parent

        no "Surname"

        but you are suggesting it should be maiden name of mother anyway?

        Thanks again

        • but you are suggesting it should be maiden name of mother anyway?

          New York State's domestic relations statutes doesn't touch upon this.

          Most of the time, they're asking for the mother's or parent's maiden name, but if they don't specify, you could put the current name.

          For instance, here's a NY sample license from the Department of Health that asks for maiden. But there exists city and town clerks who've designed their own forms that do not reference maiden or birth name.

          It's inconsistent because cities and towns are responsible for designing their own forms. Unlike other states, it's not standardized statewide.

  8. Married in 1986 in Port Jefferson, NY.

    My first name and gender was legally changed in 2018 with a court order in Indiana.

    My wife and I are still married but was wondering if we can update the Marriage Certificate with my current name.

  9. Hello Valera,

    I got married in NYC 2018, I hyphenated my maiden and husband last name as the new surname. I continue to use my maiden only. Recently, I submitted a change of name application to SSA in which they declined because I only want to use my husband’s last name. SSA advised that I am only allowed to change my name to exactly how it’s written on my marriage certificate which is my maiden hyphenated with my husband last name.

    1. Do I have to remarry to drop the hyphen? Do I have to remarry if I just want to use my husband last name only?

    2. If I do remarry my current spouse will the dates of the first marriage change to the new current date? Or will the first marriage date stay on the new marriage certificate with the new surname?

    For example, if I got married in June 28, 2018 and now decide to remarry December 29,2021 my current spouse will the new marriage certificate with the new surname have june28,2018 or December 29 2021?

    I do not want to change my name in court because after all my maiden last name is my family history.

    Your help is greatly appreciated.

    Regards,

    Malena

    • Hi Malena. When you reapply, you'd specify your new name as just your husband's. Your new marriage certificate will show the new marriage date.

      • What will happen to the first marriage records/certificate? Will I have 2 marriage certificates? Will the first marriage be annulled/cancelled? I really want to keep my original date of marriage.

  10. Hi, on my NY marriage certificate I changed my last name to my husband's. When I go to change my name at the social security office can I have my middle name entered as my maiden name even though middle name is blank on marriage certificate?

  11. #1 -I was married in January of this year. I intended to take my husbands last name and checked the box to take his name after the marriage. I have not changed my name with social security or DMV yet… 11 months later. I've decided I'd like to keep my maiden name instead. Can I change this on the marriage certificate? How?

    #2- I'm renewing my passport and since I have not changed my last name, should I just renew with my maiden name?

    • Can I change this on the marriage certificate? How?

      No, you can't change it. And it's not necessary anyway.

      I'm renewing my passport and since I have not changed my last name, should I just renew with my maiden name?

      Yes, renew in your maiden name.

  12. Hi – I got married in NY a few years and opted to keep my maiden name. Now that my husband and I have a newborn, I am considering using his last name. Is it possible to change my name on just my passport to reflect his last name without having to amend my marriage certificate or remarry?

    I was hoping to avoid issues when traveling with my child. I'd also prefer not to have to change it with SSA, DMV, banks, etc. but rather adopt my husband's last name "through usage" when it is most appropriate. Is that even possible??

    Thanks

    • Hi Linda. Could you specify when your passport was last reissued? Within thing the past year? More than one year, but less than 15 years?

        • Also, I just realized that my marriage certificate just states that I (then it lists my maiden name) married my husband, but doesn't clearly specify whether or not I opted to take my husband's name or keep my maiden after the marriage. Is it assumed that I kept my maiden name since that's what's listed? Basically I'd like to be able to use my husband's name when I renew my passport and in a few other places, while continuing to use my maiden name for everything else.

          • Hi Linda. You should be able to renew. Make sure you plane tickets are booked to match the name on your passport. You can bring your marriage certificate along your travels to link your new name and the old name on your unchanged ID, such as your driver's license.

        • Hi Linda. Since your passport is expired, you'll have to submit passport form DS-11 in person. You can update your passport in isolation without updating your other documents.

  13. Hi. I am from NY State. I got married last year in the Philippines and currently processing name change in all my documents. Birth certificate was used during application for Marriage Certificate which include first name, middle name (mother's maiden name) and last name.

    When I became a US Citizen, I dropped my middle name. So all my current documents ( driver's license, passport, etc) states only my first name and last name. I was able to process my Social Security by submitting my current passport, marriage certificate and expired Philippine passport. But during my DMV visit they denied my paperworks, they stated that marriage certificate does not match my current passport and current driver's license.

    They were looking for paperwork given by immigration for a name change after I became US citizen, I kept all old immigration paperworks with me but I don't see anything what she was looking for. It is difficult to call immigration nowadays. I don't know which route to take.

    Is it better just to get marry in NY State? To prevent all hassle even if Social Security acknowledge Marriage Certificate issued in the Philippines?

    If yes, do we need to go through applying for marriage license, ceremony in order to get a new marriage certificate?

    Thank you in advance.

    • They were looking for paperwork given by immigration for a name change after I became US citizen

      When you became a citizen your certificate would show your new name. The one with the middle name dropped. Perhaps you could supply them with older documents in your old name showing your middle name and how it's been removed when you became a citizen.

      Is it better just to get marry in NY State?

      That could be problematic as your social security record wouldn't match. This could be detected if the DMV queried their database.

      Consider contacting the DMV again and ask about chaining identity documents to satisfy their requirements. You have old and new papers, applications, etc. Will they accept a combination and sequence of documents.

  14. I’m getting married in New York but I want to keep my maiden name and add my fiancé’s name without a hyphen. For example: Jacqueline Mary Smith is my current name. My fiancé’s last name is Dobbs

    I do not want a hyphen. Can I do a double last name no hyphen? Jacqueline(first) Mary(middle) Smith Dobbs (new last name

  15. What is the statute that allows a person to change their last name to the name of their new spouse when they marry?

  16. I am in NYC.

    When I get married , I would like to add my maiden name as a second middle name.

    [First Name] [Middle Name + Maiden Name] [New Surname]

    It is my understanding that on the marriage certificate I should use First Name, Middle Name, New Surname. Leaving out maiden name and then petitioning the courts for a name change to desired name (two middle names).

    Would this be the correct order of doing things?

    Or should I change my middle name now to include both current and maiden name and then surname would be the change on marriage certificate? It seems silly to be first name, middle name , maiden name, maiden name until I change surname on marriage certificate.

    • Would this be the correct order of doing things?

      Correct.

      Or should I change my middle name now to include both current and maiden name

      Since you're going to change your name in court anyway, you can do the entire name change there. Unless you know you'll be able to get your name change done well before you get married, it's safer to get the court name change done last.

  17. Hello-I was recently married in NYC in July of 2020. I opted to take my husband's last name on our marriage certificate, however, I have not legally changed anything. I believe I was told by the city clerk that I had a year to make this change. Is that accurate, or can this be done at any point in time? Thanks!

    • I believe I was told by the city clerk that I had a year to make this change.

      There's no name change deadline. I don't know what the clerk you spoke with is referring to.

  18. I just got married about a month ago and did not receive my marriage certificate yet. my marriage license has listed my first name,maiden name,husband last name. how do i drop my husband last name ane keep my maiden name?

    Do i have to contact s.s even though i an keeping my maiden name and never told them about the change on the marriage license?

  19. I have a quick question. When I first applied for my license I initially chose a hyphenated last name. Several weeks before the ceremony I reached out to the clerk about an amendment because I wanted to drop the hyphen and take my husband's last name instead. She showed me the updated request on her end but my marriage licence never changed, even though I asked about paying for a new one if needed. Since it was all I had I used the original document. Should I expect that change to be reflected on my certificate? Or do I need to redo everything.

    • Hi Sam. Is she willing to reissue you an amended copy of the marriage license? That'll settle it. At best, you can take her at her word that she'll make the change on your eventual marriage certificate. The city clerk issues marriage licenses, records them afterwards, then issues certified copies. It's the same person (or staff) doing everything.

      • Thanks for the reply. I actually just got it in the mail and the hyphen isn't on it. So the change was reflected on the certificate after all. So it was updated on the final after all.

  20. My passport is in my marriage name but my health insurance is in my maiden name. I am travelling soon and i have to do a covid test. The result will be in my maiden name but my passport and plane ticket is in my marriage name. I can i send in a copy of my marriage certificate as proof or can i show them at the airport when i am leaving? it is just for the covd test result.

    • Hi Michelle. Bring supporting documentation that links your name change transition, namely a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

  21. Hello,

    I was hoping that you could help us.  We are getting married in New York City in September and we just finished our marriage license interview.  The person informed us that there was no way for my fiancee to take her maiden name and make it her middle.  She could only keep her name as is, hyphenate, or take my last name. We opted for taking my last name.

    After getting married can she make her maiden name her middle name? (currently she has no middle name)

    Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!!
    Cheers,David

  22. Hi,

    Can I make my husbands first name my last name in New York State? I know there are 4 options for surname changes on marriage licenses but I’ve also read that we can change our names to whatever we want as long as we are doing it in good faith.
    But would that makes things more complicated legally? I might also consider making his first name our Future kids’ last names too. (His last name is very long so his first name would be easier in writing)

    • I’ve also read that we can change our names to whatever we want as long as we are doing it in good faith.

      You could combine all or a portion of either's current or prior last name. That's the extent of it.

      But would that makes things more complicated legally?

      How so?

  23. Hello Valera,

    I just want to summarize and confirm my understanding for retaining my maiden name as my middle name (while keeping my current middle name) in NYC.

    My Name (example): First/Middle/Maiden Name = Alison Mary Lee
    My Target Name (example, Smith is new Surname): First / Middle / New Surname = Alison Mary Lee Smith

    For the Marriage Application, I should put New Surname as "Smith". So, I assume the Marriage License will result in "Alison Mary Smith". Correct? Is there any way that the marriage license could reflect "Alison Mary Lee Smith"?

    However, for Social Security, I would apply for First Name = Alison, Middle Name = Mary Lee, Last Name = Smith. Then upon receipt of new Social Security Card, then I would complete all the necessary steps for the DMV.

    Is that correct?

    Thank you for your help.
    Alison

  24. How do I add my new middle name on my marriage certificate? I have a Court Order and My Social Security card has been Changed along with my Driver’s License. Where do I go as I live in Yonkers New York

    • Hi Isabel. You can't retroactively change the name on your marriage certificate unless it's a clerical error.

  25. I got married Dec 2019 and changed to my husband last name, the only documents I have changed my new surname is my drivers license and our insurance is under his last name, can I keep the rest of my documentation (passport, professional license, SS and bank accounts under my original last name) and when it is time to renew my drivers license can I renew it with my original last name? I just want to keep my marriage certificate with his last name not the rest of my documents.
    Thank you

    • can I keep the rest of my documentation (passport, professional license, SS and bank accounts under my original last name)

      You could.

      when it is time to renew my drivers license can I renew it with my original last name?

      Possibly, as you updated it without changing your social security card. You may want to contact them about changing it now, rather than waiting years down the line for a potential surprise.

      Waiting also can catch you off guard if there's an eventual change in law or protocol that requires your name to match what's on your SS record.

  26. So I am in the middle of a divorce and my soon to be ex is filing the divorce papers for us because I currently no longer live in NYC. I was told by an attorney that a stipulation for a name change needed to be put in the divorce papers for me to go back to my maiden name but someone in the court(clerk or judge) told him that I can only go back to my previous married name NOT my maiden name because THAT was the name I had when I married him.

    After reading the article I'm not so sure this person is interpreting this law correctly or am I the one that is misunderstanding what I'm reading? If the name change stipulation is in the order can I go back to my maiden name?

  27. Thank you for answering all these questions!

    My question is, I currently do not have a middle name, simply Jane Doe on all my vital documents. If I marry John Smith can I make my last name into a middle name and then take his last name? So I would turn into Jane Doe Smith or Jane D. Smith.

    Can I do that simply by writing Jane Doe Smith in the marriage certificate? We are in NYC. Thank you in advance!

    • Hi Jane. Sure, you don't need an existing middle name to take advantage of a maiden to middle name change.

  28. Hi Valera,

    I took my husband's last name when we got married. His last name is recorded as my "new surname" in the marriage certificate. I did not update any legal documents, and have no intention to use the new surname in near future.

    Recently we have to file some immigration document. In the application form, it asks for my new surname after marriage. Can i not fill in the new surname? I supposed I have to declare since it is recorded in my marriage certificate. If i were to fill in the new surname, will the immigration document be issued in the new surname?

    A copy of the marriage certificate (with new surname) and my passport (with maiden name) will be submitted for the application. I want to continue using my maiden name.

    Thank you.

    • Can i not fill in the new surname?

      You can leave it blank.

      I supposed I have to declare since it is recorded in my marriage certificate.

      New surname listed on your marriage certificate is optional. You're not required to commit to the name.

      I want to continue using my maiden name.

      You can, as it's still your current legal name and will remain, unless you decide to change it.

  29. Hi. I live in SC and my fiancée and I are going to get married in NYC. NY law says I can take her name. I am a male. But SC law says different. Am I allowed to take my wife's name, is SC allowed to deny me my rights?

    • Hi Charles. Unfortunately, it wouldn't work out like that when you return to South Carolina. You'd have to petition the court instead.

  30. Hello,

    I was married three years ago in Washington, D.C. At the time, I did not change my name. My husband and I are now NY residents. We would both like to change our names. I would take his last name and replace my middle name with my maiden name. He would like to add my maiden name as his second middle name.

    My name would be firstname maidenname husbandsurname.
    His name would be firstname middlename wifemaidenname lastname.

    Is it even possible for him to make this change? And would we both have to petition the court, given that our marriage license doesn’t include a name change?

    • Hi Lynn. You could make the change without petitioning, but he'd have to petition to append a middle name.

  31. I have my college transcripts in my maiden name and am needing them for my teach account that I created in my married name of having been married over 10 years.

    How do I make it so teach account can connect my in my maiden name transcripts as I was married after college and before going for certification to married current use name currently legally on everything.

    • Hi Ludmilla. You can either attach a certified copy of your marriage certificate to your old transcripts explaining the name change or contact your school and request your transcripts reflect your new name, or at least an addendum showing your new name.

  32. When I filled out my marriage license in NYC I hyphenated my maiden name and husbands surname. I had a religious ceremony and my new surname is not included on the certificate. Would I be able to apply for a see social security and drivers license using just my first name and husbands surname (not my maiden name)?

    • Would I be able to apply for a see social security and drivers license using just my first name and husbands surname (not my maiden name)?

      You would if the new name after marriage block shows that name.

  33. Hello,

    Could you clarify the below statement from this website? Does 'a new name' indicates a full name or surname?

    Twelve states allow you to choose a new name when applying for a marriage license, which shows up on your marriage certificate:
    California
    Georgia
    Hawaii
    Iowa
    Massachusetts
    Minnesota
    Nevada
    New Hampshire
    New York
    North Dakota
    Oklahoma
    Oregon
    The SSA defaults to the derived naming method for the remaining 38 states and DC, asking your current legal name when applying for a marriage license.

    • Does 'a new name' indicates a full name or surname?

      Surname.

      Twelve states allow you to choose a new name when applying…

      Those states provide spaces on the marriage application to choose a new name. Other states do not.

      SSA defaults to the derived naming method…

      This means the SSA goes by a global set of name change options for the states that do not provide new name after marriage spots on their application.

  34. Hi there – I am getting married in NYC and taking my husbands last names as my own. I would like to drop my current middle name and make my maiden name my middle name. However, I currently have a hyphenated maiden name and only wish to have the first part of the hyphenated maiden name as my new middle name.

    I understand I have to petition the court for this. My question is when I petition the court, which name do I put as my current name? The name on my birth certificate [First Middle Hyphenated-Last] or my married name [First Middle MarriedLast]? Do either of these names get entered as a.k.a?

    Maiden: First Middle Hyphenated-Last
    ex. Maiden: Mary Elizabeth Smith-Black

    Married: First Middle MarriedLast
    ex. Married: Mary Elizabeth Johnson

    Name I want to have: First Hyphenated MarriedLast
    ex. Name I want to have: Mary Smith Johnson

    • My question is when I petition the court, which name do I put as my current name?

      Birth certificate, as it's still your current legal name.

      Do either of these names get entered as a.k.a?

      No, your married name doesn't exist yet.

      If you're going to change your name through court, you could fold in your married name change and get it all done simultaneously.

  35. Hi, I just got married in NYC but am a resident of another state. I want to add my maiden name as a second middle name, and of course was not given that option.

    Do I need to petition the court for a name change? If so, in NYC or my home state? Will they require that I have already changed my documents to my new surname first? (I'd rather not do these things twice if I don't have to).

    What if I decide to have my maiden name and new surname both as surnames, but not hyphenated? Does that change the process?

    When I applied for the marriage I just put my new surname, thinking I could use my maiden name as a second middle name.

    Thanks for helping with this!

    • Do I need to petition the court for a name change?

      Without knowing your state of residence, most likely.

      If so, in NYC or my home state?

      Your home state.

      Will they require that I have already changed my documents to my new surname first?

      If you have to go through the courts, it doesn't matter.

      What if I decide to have my maiden name and new surname both as surnames, but not hyphenated? Does that change the process?

      Since a new surname is specified on your marriage certificate, you're locked into that choice if changing your name through marriage.

      However, since you're likely facing a court petitioned name change, this doesn't matter. Your marriage certificate wouldn't come into play.

  36. Hello,

    My friend got married 2 years ago and when she got married, she was allowed to hyphenate her middle name to include her maiden name. When I went into get my marriage license, i was told that this was no longer an option to revise your middle name through marriage.

    If I want to revise my middle name, I was told i have to go through the legal process to have it changed. I got married this Saturday and have assumed my husband's last name, but am still wanting to change my middle name.

    If I am going to do this, I would prefer to do so before changing my name with the SS Office or DMV. However, it seems the only way to do this now is to petition the court. Is this correct?

    I'm trying to decide if it is worth pursuing my middle name change or if i should just let it go and use my husbands last name dropping my maiden name completely…

    • Hi Rachel. You can change your middle name to your maiden name on your NY driver's license, but you may need to show six points of ID to satisfy the minimum. Changing your name on your social security card and passport should be sufficient.

  37. Hi Valera,
    I live in NY – two years ago my husband and I got married in CT. I took his last name, but now I wish to take my maiden name back and hyphenate it with his. I started to do a petition for a name change, but was told yesterday by the city clerk office that it would be easier to do a re-marriage. Do you have any advice to offer? Thank you.

  38. Hello
    I was divorced in Texas and did not fill out the name change portion of the divorce decree. I was able to get my name changed by the social security admin already with my current documents back to my maiden name.

    Will I be able to change my name with the state of New York for my drivers with a divorce decree that doesn't not have the name change portion filled out. I have my new social, my birth certificate and original marriage license with my maiden name.

    Thanks

    • Hi Fiona. You may be able to still make the change. Bring your social security card, as the NY DMV allots it points value for ID purposes. Bring your divorce decree as well. If it doesn't go through, you can try and get your divorce decree amended after the fact.

    • You can also take a passport with your maiden name if you have one. If not, you can apply for a passport using the name on your birth certificate even if your current driver's license is in your married name.

  39. I got married May 2017 and did not elect to change my last name on my NY marriage license at the time because I didn’t know much about it however I said I would change it when I got pregnant in order to have the same last name of my baby.

    Well I’m 33 weeks pregnant now a little over 2 years later, I plan to go to the SSA tomorrow with my marriage certificate and all other necessary documents. I don’t have his last name as mine on any other documents because I didn’t know I could adopt it without official papers so I never used it.

    Will it be an issue given that it’s been slightly over 2 years and also that I didn’t elect to change my last name on the license? I know many states don’t even give you the option to change name on the license so if I were doing this in another state I don’t think that would be an issue?

    • Hi M. You may be able to get it processed since the new name portion is blank. Otherwise, you can consider applying for a remarriage license, which is the same as a regular marriage license.

      • I went to the SSA today and it was so painless, I only waited 10 mins! At first the clerk told me he cannot change my middle name, but he can hyphenate my last name but thanks to this blog, I knew he could change it and he did! No issues and the card should come in the mail in 2 weeks, he says. Now it’s friday- do I wait until I get my card to change it with the DMV (have to get the enhanced ID) or can I do it before it comes? How long does the database usually take to update?

        • At first the clerk told me he cannot change my middle name, but he can hyphenate my last name but thanks to this blog, I knew he could change it and he did!

          That's great to hear. So you successfully changed your middle name and last name?

          do I wait until I get my card to change it with the DMV (have to get the enhanced ID) or can I do it before it comes?

          You should be able to do it beforehand.

          How long does the database usually take to update?

          About 24 hours.

  40. I have gone thorough legal full name change. I have updated passport, Driver's licence, SSN card, etc. Can I also get my full name change on the Marriage certificate? I am NY resident.

    • Can I also get my full name change on the Marriage certificate? I am NY resident.

      No, that wouldn't qualify for an amendment or correction. Your marriage certificate is just a historical document. It's not meant to be altered, except for errors.

      Even if you could change it, it wouldn't really change. They'd just attach an amendment to the original record.

      • Hello. Inserting myself into this thread for a confirmation/clarification. If I married at NYC City Hall in March 2019 and did not elect to change my name, but now hOct 2019] want to change the license to reflect my husband’s last name, can I do that at the Civil Services office? I want to hold off on all the SSA/DMV docs for a while. Can my marriage Certificate name be changed and if so, do we both need to be present at the NYC office?

        • Hi RJ. You can't change the name on your existing marriage certificate. You may want to look into a remarriage marriage license, which is just a regular marriage license.

  41. I just got married over the weekend. I am taking my husband's name as noted on the marriage license. However, I am moving out of NYC to OKC in 4 weeks. Do I need to officially change my name in NY at SSA and DMV or can I wait to change my name in OK? I was hoping to avoid the NYC crowds at the SSA and DMV.

    • Do I need to officially change my name in NY at SSA and DMV or can I wait to change my name in OK? I was hoping to avoid the NYC crowds at the SSA and DMV.

      You can make the change in Oklahoma.

  42. Hello I been married for four years and hyphenated my husband last name next to my surname. I want to know how will I be able to take that off and keep my original last name. We got married in NYC but moved to CT. How do I go about doing that.

    • Hi Brenda. If your was only changed on your marriage license/certificate, then your name hasn't changed and there's nothing you need to do. However, if you did undergo a formal name change through the Social Security Administration, DMV, etc, then you'll have to go to court to return to your original name.

  43. In New York there is an option to combine last names. Is it possible to make a new last name that uses some of the letters from each of our last names?

    So for example. Smith and Rogers would become Smithers.

    • Is it possible to make a new last name that uses some of the letters from each of our last names?

      Yes, you can combine all or a portion of each's current or a prior last name.

      So for example. Smith and Rogers would become Smithers.

      That would work.

  44. I am a NYC resident and married my husband in 2015 in Canada. I changed my name a year later to his last name on my social security card. I chose not to hyphenate and got rid of my maiden name . As a teacher I have run into a lot of issues with my certification documents and the name change.

    I am considdering hyphenating now. Will I be able to use the marriage license to change my name to a hyphenated one now ? Or will I need to file a petition with the courts?

    • Hi Christina. You could try for a remarriage license, but if that fails you'll have to petition.

  45. Hello,

    I got married in 2015. My Marriage certificate notes my full maiden name and my new surname. However, I decided to keep my maiden name. Does this mean anything? Does it make my marriage certificate invalid since I legally did not change my surname'?

    • I decided to keep my maiden name. Does this mean anything?

      No, you're fine.

      Does it make my marriage certificate invalid since I legally did not change my surname'?

      Not changing your name to match the new name on your marriage certificate does not invalidate your marriage. Name change is not mandatory. There is no penalty.

  46. Hi
    I'm getting married next year. My Fiance wants to change his last name to a brand new last name that we will both take. Can we do this at the time of marriage or is petitioning for a name change prior to getting married, his only option?

    • Can we do this at the time of marriage or is petitioning for a name change prior to getting married, his only option?

      He'll have to petition. Petitioning beforehand is a plus because it provides you the option to take his new name through marriage without having to undergo your own petition.

  47. I just got married and my wife change her surname to take mine. But i don't know how to write it now.
    Where should i put her surname before marriage if she has my surname now after marriage.
    I just need the order of the name.

    • Where should i put her surname before marriage if she has my surname now after marriage.

      Her surname before marriage is the last name she had before she married you. For instance, if you wife's name is now Jane Ibo, but her name before marriage was Jane Doe, her surname before marriage would be Doe.

  48. My fiancee currently has his mother's name, Travis, as his last name. He is 29 and has decided to change his name to Flores, which is his fathers name. We are getting married in 3 months. How can we go about having this change? In a timely manner? We both would like to be Flores when we get married in July.

    • How can we go about having this change? In a timely manner?

      Your fiance can change his name by court order before marriage. After marriage, you may change your name with your marriage certificate.

  49. Married and marriage certificate in 1986 in Suffolk County of Long Island (NYS).
    I have since had a Name and Gender change and we no longer live in NYS

    Would like to update the marriage certificate to have new legal name and new gender (I have a court order of such from another state that we live in)

    Can I do this from out of state and how do we do this. Can't seem to find information. This

    • Can I do this from out of state and how do we do this.

      Yes, it can be done out-of-state. Simply contact the office that recorded your marriage certificate about getting it amended.

      You may have to mail or fax an affidavit. They'll usually provide the necessary forms and instructions.

  50. hi I am previously married. last name tallon(previous husbands last name) I am now married again (mcmanamy)being the last name. my maiden name is sanders. I would like to hyphenate my last name this time. sanders-mcmanamy.
    on my marriage certificate it say new surname (mcmanamy). can I still make it sanders-mcmanamy. or do I have to get it changed on my cert of marriage first?

    • Hi Shayna. You'll either have to get it changed on the marriage certificate or get it changed through the courts.

  51. Hi, Valera. Thanks for providing all of this help. I've read through most of the comments and am unclear on whether providing a new surname through the Marriage License Application in NYC effects the legal change immediately, or if I would then need to change my name on official documents such as with the SSA, DMV, etc before it takes effect. I'm looking at the City Clerk's webpage and it states, "If you elect to make a surname change on your application, the surname change takes legal effect at the conclusion of the Marriage Ceremony."

    If I were to change my name to a hyphenated last name combining my maiden name with my spouse's surname by filling this out on the Marriage License Application, and everywhere else continued to use only my maiden name, would I be required to change those official documents? And if I never changed any official documents and only filled out the change on the Application, what would my legal name be?

    Thank you for your time!

    • the surname change takes legal effect at the conclusion of the Marriage Ceremony

      If you don't update your documents, it has no affect. You have authorization to change your name at that point, but you must initiate the process.

      If I were to change my name to a hyphenated last name combining my maiden name with my spouse's surname by filling this out on the Marriage License Application, and everywhere else continued to use only my maiden name, would I be required to change those official documents?

      No, you're not required to change anything.

      And if I never changed any official documents and only filled out the change on the Application, what would my legal name be?

      In the real world, your name would be the same. The city/town clerk isn't going to notify any federal or state institution about your name change after marriage. If no one is notified, then your name on record does not change.

  52. Hi

    My husband and I were married in 2016 and due to severe injuries I sustained in a car accident changing the outcome of us having a family. I am unable to carry a child with 11 herniated discs and nerve damage.

    Family is very important to him. He’s younger than I am.last year in 2018 I decided we should divorce. I want him to have his dream of a family one day. Him and I are still close. There’s no anger between us. I want his happiness because I love him.

    When we married I didn’t take his last name on my ss card or dL. I did hyphen both names on my bank account and had a credit card with my 1st and his last name. It’s unlikely I will marry again. I will always love him. I asked him after the divorce if I could keep his last name. He said “of course “

    For me, keeping his last name means a lot to me emotionally. Can I legally go to the social security office, dmv and IRS and change my last name to his last name now? If so, do I just bring our marriage license?

    Do I need a motorized letter from him stating I can have his last name? Are there extra fees? Is it too late? Also, for 20 years I have gone by my psudo first name. I have used it, known as and identified by it 99% of the time. The only people to know my government first name are employers, doctors etc..

    I’m so accustomed to my pseudo first I rarely recognize when being called by my birth first name. A lot of my personal need for change is due to a traumatic childhood and never indenting with my name and last year I discovered “skeleton truths” that my parents hid from me of what occurred in the events surrounding my parents divorce when I was 14 years old.

    These truths disturb my heart, soul and mind. I no longer want to have a connection to my family by name in an identifiable way. I was never close to either parents and was o my own since 15. Getting married and having a new life was magical for me.

    I’d like to hold on to my pseudo first permanently (it’s who I am) and my ex-husbands last name (he was the best thing to happen to me and he’s a man of great love, integrity, honor and a beautiful spirit) I want to begin my life at 38 feeling proud of my name because it has meaningfulness and there’s no association by memory of my biological parents when I write my name.

    Long long story, short….

    Can I change my first name as well? So, finalizing my name would be my pseudo first name plus my ex-husbands last name.

    What are my steps? Cost? Legal rights? Restrictions if any?

    Thank you so much for reading and all information!!!

    • I forgot to inquire also regarding fees, if any. Can they be waived? With all of my injuries I have been unable to work the jobs I used to (Hospitality, caregiving and film production) finding office work (with a unique work history and no job heavily focused primarily on office work, but I have experience just not within the last 8 years.) so finding work is tiring and limited.

      I am smart and went to college but my resume being eclectic and diverse isn’t helping me. I am ineligible for unemployment or any assistance from government agencies.,I am applying for (social security disability) and as extensive as my injuries I ended up with a dishonest lawyer year 1 who I retained a week after the accident. When I realized her unethical practices was going to possibly jeopardize my case I fired her firm and retainer a new atorrney while ethically practicing he has put no intentional effort into my case.

      I go to deposition soon concerned there will be no substantial offer. Neither the driver of the vehicle I was in nor the vehicle that hit us had more than the minimum basic coverage. I’ve had 10 epidurals and 2 nerve blocks (8 nerves, 3 levels) in the last 10 months. I also am in need of a fusion in my lumbar.

      My attorney currently has me acting as his paralegal, not literally but indirectly I have had to request, retain, submit all of my own records for the case as well as having to speak with the insurance company regarding letters they sent because he doesn’t return my calls or respond to emails. Granted my case is complicated and I understand lawyers are in their jobs for the money but this is the rest of my life.

      My apologies for the extra layer of back story. My reason is to allow insight into the extreme financial hardship this accident caused as well as emotional and mental distress in a daily.

      I don’t have the financial resources to pay for my name change. I rely on a friend to feed (I live on gf chicken tenders, potato chips, bananas and yogurt. I have celiac disease. Gluten causes inflammation and I have to Avoid gluten at all cost to not bring more pain and inflammation to my spine, disc and nerves). My friend had also let me stay with her all last year and that ends soon because of the cost on her.

      I’ve sent out over 200 resumes last year. I had less than 15 interviews. and was only hired at 2 jobs. The 1st job I was let go after needing a day off after an epidural because my back went out and I couldn’t walk.

      I was honest with the boss about my condition and upcoming epidural when I was interviewed. I was hired as the personal assistant for someone who owned his own investment firm. As a requirement for the job I had to get an FBI fingerprinting and background check, all of which is clean and clear but I was let go a week prior to the results coming back and the boss needed me to start training immediately because his assistant was leaving.

      So I got under- paid (based on salary agreement upon hire) by company check from him and when I went to file unemployment he stated I was self employed. I was not. He couldn’t have me fill out I-9 and w-4 until the FBI check came back. So I got railroaded and will have to pay taxes on that 2 week pay.

      The 2nd employer who I was hired by around thanksgiving I was honest with about my injuries and since January have worked less than 10 days at $12/hour. That’s half the hourly I was previously making. I’m currently on the schedule for one 4 hour shift in March and had no shifts in February. I had to take work because my friend needed some money from me. But now I’m told because I work these 2 jobs that caused more problems to have I may have jeopardized my application with SSD.

      With all I’ve endured in the last year and a half, layer upon layer, Wall after Wall and tear after year having my name be my own that I define with self confidence, self love and would have me feel better overall by just having my name be ME and have positive association for me emotionally and mentally, it’s the 1 thing I can take away from these struggles and give me a smile.

      If you’ve kept up with my soap opera docu like reality story… thank you for reading. I dont have family to talk to and I am scared if I miss a detail it can domino my circumstances.

      Is there a hardship waiver of some kind for changing my name??

      Thank you! God bless you all for reading and all advice and guidance!

      • I forgot to inquire also regarding fees, if any. Can they be waived?

        …snip…

        Is there a hardship waiver of some kind for changing my name?

        Yes, you can request a hardship fee waiver in any New York court.

        If you’ve kept up with my soap opera docu like reality story… thank you for reading. I dont have family to talk to and I am scared if I miss a detail it can domino my circumstances.

        Thanks for sharing your story. I'm confident it will be greatly inspiring and helpful to others facing their own trials and tribulations. And even for those who aren't.

        Good luck to you. Everything will work out great for you in the end. When you change your name, please come back to tell us how your story progressed.

    • For me, keeping his last name means a lot to me emotionally. Can I legally go to the social security office, dmv and IRS and change my last name to his last name now? If so, do I just bring our marriage license?

      It wouldn't be a valid name change, as the document you'd use isn't current. Whether or not it would work is another matter entirely.

      Do I need a motorized letter from him stating I can have his last name?

      That wouldn't be used to approve or deny your name change.

      Can I change my first name as well? So, finalizing my name would be my pseudo first name plus my ex-husbands last name.

      If you're committed to changing your first name, you might as well just petition the court for a regular adult name change. That'll allow you to accomplish all your goals without worrying about loopholes.

      What are my steps?

      You'll have to file a New York name change court petition.

      Cost?

      It costs $65 to change your name in New York City. The rest of the state is about $200 to $300.

      Legal rights?

      I'm not sure what you're referring to here.

      Restrictions if any?

      Name change can't be an attempt to commit fraud or evade debts. That's not what you're proposing, so it's a nonissue.

  53. Hello, I just got married last Friday, February 15, 2019 at the Buffalo City Hall near Niagara falls, and just after the wedding was done, I've discovered that my second name was misspelled; instead of Mark Joseph, it's Mark Joesph. My wife lives in NJ while I'm up in Toronto, she's 9 weeks pregnant and would be exhausted travelling to Buffalo.

    Is there a way to change it without being there physically? How long will it take to be processed?

    Thank you so much.

    • Is there a way to change it without being there physically? How long will it take to be processed?

      Contact the Buffalo city clerk about amending your marriage record. They may be able to mail, fax, or email you a blank amendment form. You may have to get it notarized and provide a photocopy of your ID. They'll be able to detail internal procedures and how to deliver paperwork back to them.

  54. Hi Valera

    While filing for our marriage license at NYC, I opted to adopt his last name as my new surname. I understand that this name change will not take effect on other legal documents unless we notify the relevant authorities separately.

    As I would be joining him in US soon, I would need to start applying for local documents (e.g. ss#, DMV, visa etc). When applying for these documents, can I choose to continue using my maiden name? Even if marriage certificate (with the new surname) is part of the required documents?

    Same question for when renewing documents like passport etc.

    Thanks a lot.

    • When applying for these documents, can I choose to continue using my maiden name? Even if marriage certificate (with the new surname) is part of the required documents? Same question for when renewing documents like passport etc.

      Yes, to both questions. You can continue using your maiden name, even if it differs from the new name shown on your marriage certificate.

  55. Hi,
    I took my spouse's last name in May 2018 and our marriage license shows the new surname but I decided to keep my maiden name, can I update the marriage license or do I have to get re-marry for this update.
    Also would I get into trouble for not using his surname, I haven't updated any of my legal documents.

    thanks!

    • can I update the marriage license or do I have to get re-marry for this update.

      Not possible and unnecessary. It's just an archived record.

      Also would I get into trouble for not using his surname, I haven't updated any of my legal documents.

      Not at all.

  56. Hi I took my spouse last name and our marriage license shows the new surname but I didn't take any action to change in any of my official documents specially that I have a dual citizenship and we are not changing our surname back home. Am I in trouble for not changing it in all official documents. And what about if I want to remove the new surname in the marriage certificate what I have to do

    • Am I in trouble for not changing it in all official documents.

      No trouble at all.

      And what about if I want to remove the new surname in the marriage certificate what I have to do

      Not possible. Modifications are reserved for errors.

  57. I did not take my spouses last name after marriage but now I want to. After reading here the remarry would be easier, what would remarrying my spouse consist of? Just filing another marriage license or the license and a “ceremony”?

  58. Quick question I got married April 28th 2018 I have yet to change my last name but on our marriage certificate I am his last name well I get in any trouble if I don't change it everything still says my maiden name just our marriage certificate has his last name I just don't want to get in any trouble if I never change it

    • well I get in any trouble if I don't change it everything still says my maiden name

      There won't be any trouble if you don't change.

  59. Hello, I married in NYC 2 years ago. I was a bit confused when it came to the name change. I ended up changing my last name to his instead of hyphenating it. I haven't taken any further steps since as far as changing any documents. I would like to get my maiden name back with his hyphenated instead. How would I go about changing that?

    • I would like to get my maiden name back with his hyphenated instead. How would I go about changing that?

      Option #1: Return to the NYC clerk, apply for a new marriage license to remarry, specify your hyphenated name on the application, then wait for your new marriage certificate to change your name.

      Option #2: Submit a name change petition with the NYC Civil Court.

  60. I got married in NYC city hall 2 years ago and kept my surname now I would like to change it to my husbands surname. Not finding much information on How can I do that? Any help?

    • I got married in NYC city hall 2 years ago and kept my surname now I would like to change it to my husbands surname.

      If your marriage license application provided a spot for you to choose a new last name after marriage and you chose your husband's, obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate to change your name.

      If that option was provided and you didn't specify a new surname, you can remarry by completing a new marriage license application and use the subsequent certificate to change your name.

      You could go to civil court as well, but remarriage would be faster and cheaper.

  61. Hello Valera,
    I live in NYC. I have an out of state drivers license, my new SSA card, and my marriage license. Can I go to the NYC DMV to get a new NY ID with my new name as reflected on my NEW SSA card?
    Thank you.

    • Can I go to the NYC DMV to get a new NY ID with my new name as reflected on my NEW SSA card?

      Yes, you can.

  62. hi!
    I got married three years ago in nyc and I kept my last name.
    My husband’s mom changed his last name to hers when he was a child and now he wants to change it back to his dad’s last name. Both parents last names are on his birth certificate.
    1. can he change back to his dad’s last name if we remarried? or is there another process
    2. does him changing his last name make our marriage invalid?
    thanks!

    • 1. can he change back to his dad’s last name if we remarried?

      You'll have to contact the clerk to determine the availability of a remarriage license option. If so, New York does allow either party to a marriage to take the current or a former surname of either party.

      2. does him changing his last name make our marriage invalid?

      No, it doesn't affect the validity of your marriage.

  63. I want to know two of my marriage certificate is legalirst? First certificate have my spouse old name , after court order, second certificate have my spouse old name and new name but date of marriage not the same i think both legal to show

  64. Hello i am marry have certificat after my spouse change her name and we have to remarry her name but date of marriage not the same can i use both can be use only date of marry change

      • I mean marry twice same spouse we are not divorce because my spouse change her name by court order marriage certificate date of marry change which one is count marry certificate i too confuse i think first date of marriage is court marriage date both can be count?

        • Hi Sam. I'm still not quite sure what you're asking. Your marriage certificate isn't affected by your spouse's court ordered name change. A court ordered name change would take precedence over a marriage certificate. You wouldn't have to update the marriage certificate due to the court order.

  65. Hi all,
    I got married this past july in Vegas but live in NY. I do not have a middle name but wanted to make my maiden name, my middle name. How do I go about this?

    Thanks

    • Hi Odalis. You'd use a certified copy of your Nevada marriage certificate to effect a marriage-based name change as anyone normally would.

  66. Hi,

    I got married in NYC and have adopted my husband's Surname as my last name.
    I have a question about my first name after marriage, could my new first name be first name + maiden last name? or should I still use my original first name and put my maiden name as new middle name?

    I'm currently applying a green card, but this confused me, I don't know which first name is correct for putting on the applications.

    Thanks.

    • Hi Fiona. You can't change your first name through marriage. You'd have to go to court for that. You could use your maiden as your middle though.

  67. I got married in NYC in 2013 and decided to not change my name using my husband's name then. We currently live in Florida. I am applying to US Citizenship with the option of changing my name, keeping my first name, changing my middle name to my current last name and adopting my husband's last name to be my last name. That's a common option to change name on naturalization to be a US citizen. Now, the problem is that my NY marriage certificate has my old name. What do I do to make the change in my NY Marriage certificate? Thank you.

    • hat's a common option to change name on naturalization to be a US citizen. Now, the problem is that my NY marriage certificate has my old name. What do I do to make the change in my NY Marriage certificate? Thank you.

      You could request an amendment, but it's not likely to be accepted since it's not an error. It's unnecessary anyway as your name change through naturalization would take precedence.

  68. Hello,

    I was married in May 2016 in Brooklyn, NY. At the time I wanted to change my surname to my previous marriage surname, and I was told I could not do that. The City Clerk Office website states you can. I was told I had to hyphenate my last name and my husband's last name or take his last name that is hyphenated. How can I have my surname changed to the one I actually wanted?

    • Hi Wendi. You can try returning to the clerk's office and request your marriage record be amended. Be sure to bring a printout from their website.

  69. Hi, I live in IN but I want to get married in NY and my S.O. also wants to change his last name and I want to know can we both change our last names while we're in NY or do I have to be a resident.

    E.g. we live in Indiana but we get married in New York, on our certificate in New York, we both change our surnames, has his last name been legally changed, as well as mine? (Of course going to the Social Security and DMV would follow)

    • Hi Simone. Documents should be sent to your local office. Indiana's name change allowances aren't known to be as flexible as New York's, so even if you were able to change your name at a NY SSA location, IN's BMV office might not be as accepting.

  70. Hello Valera, I am a NY resident, but we were married in 2017 in Pensacola, FL. Our marriage certificate does not show our "New Marriage Surname", according to the clerk at city hall, the state of Florida does not add the couple's new marriage surname to the certificate.

    My husband and I wanted to combine our surnames together and add " De " between our names instead of the hyphen ( ex… His last name De My last name); a new name combination forming a single surname.

    I thought in the state of NY, we legally had the option as long as our surnames were combined in any order. We were able to accomplish our name change only through the Social Security Office. I am having difficulties at the DMV office and the VA office. Three people from the DMV office stated that " By Law, I was not allowed to keep my last name and add his. I was told three different times that I only have two choices: hyphen the name with his surname last or just keep my last name w\o adding his… Is this true? I thought I read in your fabulous blog that we had 4 options for our married surname and a combination forming a single surname was legal, and taking the surname of either wife or husband is also legal or hyphen either way is also legal. Did I misunderstand your statements and the 3 clerks at the DMV office were correct? Please help me through this complicated task.

    I am completely confused. My husband did not have a problem at all changing his driver license to our desired last name.

    Please help, I really want to keep my last name, but add his. What should I do?

    Thank You in Advance,
    GL

    • according to the clerk at city hall, the state of Florida does not add the couple's new marriage surname to the certificate.

      Correct.

      My husband and I wanted to combine our surnames together and add " De " between our names instead of the hyphen ( ex… His last name De My last name); a new name combination forming a single surname.

      No, adding "De" shouldn't be permitted as it's not a part of either's surname.

      I thought in the state of NY, we legally had the option as long as our surnames were combined in any order.

      You can, whether you use a portion of either's surname or the entire surname.

      We were able to accomplish our name change only through the Social Security Office. I am having difficulties at the DMV office and the VA office.

      It's interesting the SSA processed your request, even though a portion of the last name isn't inlcuded in either's surname. It's unsurprising the DMV gave you a tougher time.

      Three people from the DMV office stated that " By Law, I was not allowed to keep my last name and add his. I was told three different times that I only have two choices: hyphen the name with his surname last or just keep my last name w\o adding his… Is this true?

      You can print the pertinent portion of NY domestic relations law that states the following:

      a name combining into a single surname all or a segment of the premarriage surname or any former surname of each spouse

  71. Hello! I am a resident of New York, but I'm getting married in South Carolina in October. I understand that I have to get my marriage license and certificate in South Carolina, but what about changing my name? If I want to use my maiden name as my new middle name, can I do that in South Carolina? Or do I have to do it in New York?

    Thanks for your help!

    • If I want to use my maiden name as my new middle name, can I do that in South Carolina? Or do I have to do it in New York?

      You can make the change in New York.

  72. Hello, my wife and I are from a different country, we choose to get married in N.Y. when we were filling out the information she hyphenated my last name, now she have decided that she want to drop the hyphen and her median name and keep my name only, can this be done?
    2ndly, we both live in the Caribbean and don't own be green card or citizenship for the US, so can it be done online or on the phone without travelling to NYC?

    • Hi Oshane. Since you're not a U.S. citizen nor live in the U.S., your marriage would be considered a foreign marriage. The laws of your wife's country (not New York) would determine what name change your she will or won't be allowed to follow. Without knowing her country of residence, not much more can be said.

  73. Hello,

    My fiance and I are looking at the marriage license application for New York City. She wants to change her middle name to her maiden name and take my last name, so that her name will become "firstname maidenname husbandlastname". She will be removing her given middle name and taking her maiden name as her middle. Can you tell me how we should fill out the marriage license application so that this will be accepted by SS, Passport office and the NYC DMV? The fields we need to enter are…

    Surname:
    First Name:
    Middle Name (Optional):
    New Surname:

    Should I fill it out as follows…?

    Surname: Maidenname
    First Name: Firstname
    Middle Name (Optional): Maidenname
    New Surname: Husbandlastname

    or…

    Surname: Maidenname
    First Name: Firstname
    Middle Name (Optional): Originalmiddlename
    New Surname: Husbandlastname

    I just want to make sure everything is filled out correctly before we go to the SS office and so forth.

    • Hi Jack. Unless the application has a block to specify new middle name, she's put her current middle name. Even if she were to specify a new middle name, the city/town clerk would likely catch it and ask her to correct it if her provided identification doesn't match.

      • Okay thank you very much. So then what is the actual process of changing her maiden name to her middle name?

        She needs to fill out the SS-5 form for social security, where she can change her first middle and last, will this be an issue to change her middle name if it is listed on the marriage certificate as firstname originalmiddlename newlastname? She'll show her photo id with all her original information as well as her birth certificate. She'll also show our marriage certificate showing her new last name but this is the stage when she changes her maiden name to her middle name correct? And that shouldn't be an issue?

        • Hi Jack. Her marriage certificate, which will show her current middle name, can still be used to do a maiden to middle name switch.

          • How?

            My marriage certificate has First – Middle – New Last. I want to replace Middle with Maiden.

            I was able to change my NY license & Social Security, but not my passport. They need my marriage certificate to be updated. But i can't find any clear info on how to update my Middle name in my marriage certificate to my maiden name. Thx for the help!

          • Hi Jeanne. You can't change your certificate, but you shouldn't have to. You should be able to use it as-is to replace your middle with your maiden.

          • Hello ,my case is similar to the one above sent by Jack. The only difference is that my fiancé doesn't have a middle name. She wants to replace her surname with mine and use her maiden name as middle .

            Should I fill it out as follows…?

            Surname: Maidenname
            First Name: Firstname
            Middle Name (Optional): Maidenname
            New Surname: Husbandlastname

          • Hi Stoyan. The clerk should catch and disallow that since it wouldn't match her ID. It's not important as she'll be able to use the marriage certificate to replace her nonexistent middle name with her maiden name.

  74. Hi there! I live in upstate NY and was married in July of 2017. I am just now starting the process of changing my last name on my SS card, but I am worried I have made a big mistake after reading everything on here.

    Back in December 2017 I had to renew my Drivers license because it expired… I live in a small town and the woman at the counter knew me and went ahead and offered to change my last name since I was just married. I told her I had not changed it with SS yet and she said that wouldn't matter she would only need to see my Marriage Certificate. So to save me an extra fee she just went ahead and changed my last name at the same time she renewed my license.

    I don't have a passport or another NYS id other than my DL. So what am I suppose to do?

    Thank you
    Brittney

    • Hi Brittney. Name change with the social security office typically comes before changing your driver's license, but that's because it's meant to grease the wheels at the DMV "if" they perform a lookup against the SSA database.

      Changing your name with the DMV first isn't going to block you from changing it with the Social Security Administration. Now, by the default the SSA will want to see an identity document in your old name, but since you don't appear to have one they'll accept one in your new name as long they can use it to establish your identity in their records.

      So, even though you finished a portion of your name change out of sequence, it doesn't matter much in the grand scheme of things.

  75. When I married in 2009 I thought I wanted my husbands last name when we married so on my marriage license it shows only his last name. But I never went on to change my last name at social security or dmv, I kept my maiden name. Now I want to add my maiden name to my marriage license as a last name in addition to his name. Do I need to get remarried and relicensed?

    • Hi Ruby. If a remarriage license is made available to you, that's one way to go about it. Otherwise, you'll have to go to civil court in NYC or the supreme court outside the city.

  76. When I married I left my name as is and simply hyphenated to add my husband's surname. This is what is on my marriage licence (NY but not NYC). (first name, middle name, maiden name-husbands surname.

    I would like to drop my middle name and use my maiden name as a middle name, and drop the hyphen – thereby using my husband's surname as mine also. So first name is same, middle name = maiden name, last name = husband's surname. The DMV allowed me to change it to match that of above if that makes a difference.

    Will I have to go through the court to do so? Or will SSA allow me to do this as is also.

    Thanks.

  77. My adult daughter (30) was recently married and is preparing to change her last name in NY. She is saying she needs my SS# and my wife's SS# to complete the process. Is this correct? Why would this be?

    • She is saying she needs my SS# and my wife's SS# to complete the process. Is this correct?

      It's not mandatory.

  78. Hi, I got married in Costa Rica in 2016, the marriage certificate (translated into English by an official translator, Authenticated by the Costa Rican Ministry of Foreign Relations, Notarized by a Public Notary, Certified and signed by the U.S. Embassy’s Consular Sectionis) is legal in the U.S. but it does not have an option for name change, as according to Costa Rican law, women do not change their last name when they get married. So on my marriage certificate, my last name is the same as my passport. I live in NYC and now I would like to change my last name to my husband's or to hyphenate or have two last names no hyphen. Since my marriage certificate is not from the US, will I be able to do the name change with the SSA, Passport and DMV?

    • Since my marriage certificate is not from the US, will I be able to do the name change with the SSA, Passport and DMV?

      Yes, you will.

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