How to Change Your Name Afer Marriage

How to Change Your Name Afer Marriage After much debate about whether or not to change my name  after getting married,  I decided to go for it (I settled on making my maiden name my middle name).  I wasnt sure where to start or what all needed to be changed so I kept putting it off. I decided to put together this post for the other newlyweds and brides-to-be out there who want some direction on how to start the process!  It took me about 9 months after getting married to change my name, hopefully this list will make your transition time much shorter! Step 1: Request Your Marriage Certificate Do this through the same office you got your marriage license. You can go in person or if you are far away you can request your marriage certificate by mail.  My county had an option to request this info via a company called  Vital Check  but it was an extra $29 in fees shipping so I opted for the mail and it came within a few days. You will likely have to provide the following in your mailed marriage certificate request. A completed  Marriage Certificate Request Form A photocopy of your  photo identification  (drivers license, state issued identification, etc.) A check or money order payable to the your County Clerk Step 2: Change Your Social Security Card You will need your marriage certificate, drivers license and/or passport to start this process. Heres a PDF with more details  on what youll need. Then fill out this application for a Social Security card  and bring it to your local social security office. Step 3: Change Your Driver’s license Bring your new social security card along with your marriage certificate (just in case!) to your local DMV.  If you also have an address change, be sure to bring a recent bank statement or utility bill that is less than 3 months old. I didnt have this when I went and had to leave and come back! Even so, getting a new license was way easier than I thought it would be! Step 4: Change your name with your bank All you should need to change your name on your bank account is your new drivers license.  Your bank will give you a new debit card and make you sign new signature cards.  While youre there, you should also inquire about getting your name changed on any of the credit cards and car/student loans held through that institution as well.  If you use checks, order some new ones with your new name! Step 5: Talk to HR to get your work-related affairs in order Now that your name is changed on your bank account, you should make sure your HR department is aware so you dont have issues getting paid.  Youll also need to change your name on your insurance, 401(k) and any other benefits. Step 6: Other name-change items to consider Auto Home Owners/Renters Insurance Utility bills Gym membership Home address labels (love this one! Hello TinyPrints!) Additional credit cards not held at your main bank (this should trigger a name change with the credit bureaus) Passport Student Loans Vehicle titles Mortgages Voter  registration Email address Business cards Email signature LinkedIn profile Happy name changing ladies! And congrats on becoming a Mrs!