How to Change Your Name After You’re Married.

Once you are married and have a copy of a certified marriage certificate, with a raised seal that verifies its authenticity, which is the most important piece of your name changing puzzle, then you are ready to change your name.

Social Security Card

First, get a new social security card. You will not get far without changing this first. You can download a form from the Social Security website, or you can call the Social Security office at 1-800-772-1213. Then take the completed form, marriage license and your identification to your local social security office to get a new card.

Driver’s License

Next, Visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). I know this is not your favorite place to spend your time, but they must see you in-person. Bring along your certified marriage certificate and the following forms of identification (not all may be necessary): Social Security card (old and new), Old driver’s license, Car Registration.

Next

Next, after you have your new Social Security Card and Drivers license, you will want to notify the following of your name change:  Friends and family; Employers Schools Post office  Department of Records or Vital Statistics (issuers of birth certificates) Banks and other financial institutions Creditors and debtors; Telephone and utility companies; State taxing authority; Insurance agencies; Registrar of Voters; Passport office; Public Assistance (welfare) office; Veterans Administration.  Also, don’t forget to order new checks and credit cards?.

Finally

Start using it. ?It will sound a little funny at first, but as you start using your new last name, everyone else will catch on. Don’t be afraid to courteously correct people when they erroneously use your maiden name.