How to Legally Change Your Name
Signing your marriage license is an exciting moment, but it doesn’t legally change your name. In fact, changing your name requires multiple steps. But as long as you know what you need to do well beforehand, you can make your name change as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Get a copy of your marriage license
In order to change your name, you will need a copy of your marriage license. Some states will send a certified copy to you after your officiant returns it to the clerk, while some require you to return to the county clerk’s office to pick up a copy. Plan to purchase up to three copies for the name change process.
Update your Social Security card
Your name change isn’t official until it goes through all the appropriate government channels. Once you have a copy of your marriage license, visit your local Social Security Administration office or their website and fill out an application for a new Social Security card. You will keep the same number you’ve had since birth, but you will need to update your name.
Be prepared to present your marriage license; a health insurance card showing your name, birthday, and photograph; a life insurance policy; and/or other identifying documents. For more information on the specifics, visit the Social Security Administration here.
You can mail your application to your local Social Security Administration office or visit the office in person to go through the process. You should receive your new card within a couple weeks.
Change your driver’s license or state ID
Once you get that social security card in the mail, you must visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles to get an updated driver’s license with your new last name. Plan to bring your new social security card, your current driver’s license, proof of address, and a certified copy of your marriage license, as well as money for the DMV fee. Check the website for additional information on necessary paperwork and acceptable proof of identification.
Update your bank accounts
If you have a joint bank account or even if you’re still keeping separate accounts, you will need to update your name to ensure everything continues to run smoothly. The quickest way to do this is to visit a local branch of your bank with your new driver’s license and marriage certificate. You will also want to request new debit and/or credit cards, as well as new checks with your updated information.
Make sure all your accounts are updated
Once your name is legally changed, you will need to update your information on all your utilities, loan companies, and anywhere else where your name is on file. It may help to write a list of everywhere you need to change your name. Here are some common places to get you started:
Employers
Insurance companies (health, auto, home, life, etc.)
Credit card companies
Landlord or mortgage company
Doctors’ and dentists’ offices
Voter registration
Utility companies
Be aware of pandemic changes
The COVID-19 pandemic has likely changed how these offices handle name changes. For example, in many states, you have to have an appointment to visit the DMV in order to limit the number of people in the building. Check the websites of your local offices to find out how you can make any appointments during the pandemic so you can finally change your name.
Or- Skip all the trouble and pay a service to handle your name change
Check out HitchSwitch to streamline your name change. You get all the pre-filled forms you need for the social security card, passport, driver’s license, vehicle title and registration, IRS change of address, credit cards, TSA, credit cards, insurance providers, etc., as well as a name-change specialist and checklist to help you stay organized. Prices range from $40 to $100. Note- government fees are not included.
