Congratulations, Mrs… it’s time to change your last name, officially. How do I change my last name, you ask? Although not free, and a bit time consuming, changing your name can be accomplished without pulling your hair out by following our seven-step to-do list below.
Step One
Order a certified copy of your marriage license from your state’s Department of Health. There is a fee for this document – usually around $15.
Step Two
Apply for a new Social Security card. To do so, fill out Form SS-5 and mail it or bring it to any Social Security office, along with a certified copy of your driver’s license and marriage certificate.
Step Three
Head to the DMV to change the name on your driver’s license. Bring your current driver’s license, your certified marriage license, two forms of proof of address, proof of insurance, and your vehicle registration or title. (You probably won’t need all of this documentation; but because state requirements vary, we don’t want you mad at us if you have to head home to pick up a document we missed. Better yet, call you local DMV to find out exactly what you’ll need.)
Step Five
You will want to change the name on your passport only after trips booked in your maiden name have been completed. For passports less than a year old, complete Form DS-5504. For passports older than one year, complete Form DS-82.
Step Six
Inform the USPS of your name change by filling out a Change of Address form. (If you’re not moving, simply use your current address and list your married name.)
Step Seven
Don’t forget to notify the following organizations, if applicable, of your name change:
Your bank and brokerage accounts
Utility providers
Medical professionals
Your insurance agent
Any professional organizations with which you’re affiliated
Your employer
Your creditors and debtors
Veterans Administration
Don’t want to hassle with the seven steps above? There are web services who will do the legwork for you for a small fee. Check out MissNowMrs.com, BridalNameChange.com, NameChangeExpress.com and NameChangeKit.com.