How to change your name after the wedding
Congratulations!
You’ve said “I do” and your special day was everything you dreamed of and more!.. now what?
One of the first things new wives are excited to do is change their last name and get started with the next chapter of their lives. Changing your name is a process and here are a few tips and steps to make it as painless as possible!
Getting your Marriage License and Certified Copies: This is the #1 thing that you need to get started changing your name. After you get married, your officiant sends in your marriage license to the state to be filed. Usually by the time you get back from your tropical honeymoon you can purchase certified copies. It is recommend buying three to start because some places need to keep them on file while other places will return them to you. Make sure you stash the certificate somewhere safe but keep the certified copies on hand. You'll need them.
Updating your Social Security Card: Now that you have your official marriage documents, you will need to update your name with the government. You can apply for a new Social Security card through the mail or go to your local Social Security office in person. If you are planning to go in person you will need to bring some more documents including:
Citizenship documents: your valid passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate.
New name change documents: a certified copy of your marriage license.
Proof of identity documents: This must show your name and date of birth or age, and it must have a recent photograph.
Your current Social Security card. (Your number will not change)
Updating your Driver’s License: Updating your driver's license with a new name must be done in person. You will most likely need to pay the renewal fee and get a new picture taken. You can print the renewal application form online which can save you time once you get there. You will need to provide some documents here too:
Your receipt from the Social Security office (just in case) or your new Social Security card if you already have it.
Your current driver's license.
Proof of address which could be a mortgage or insurance document, or a bill or bank statement that was mailed to your home address.
A certified copy of your marriage license
Once you have these documents updated then it should be smooth sailing to update everything else! Other things you will need to update include your passport, bank accounts, credit cards and insurance documents. This can take a lot of time and be a big pain in the butt, but it’s totally worth it to start your next chapter!
