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You are here: Home / Archives for Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds

Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds

name change advice

Looking for name change advice or some tips for newlywed life? The MissNowMrs experts have created state-specific name change articles and checklists for you. We’ve chronicled our recommendations for how to travel while changing your name AND how to handle voting during the transition.

We’ve also compiled our best guidance for how to handle difficult sister in laws, holidays as newlyweds, the ever-annoying baby questions, and much more. Why? Because, while we are name change experts, we’re also newlywed wives, moms, and sisters.

We hope our name change advice articles help smooth your transition to your new name, and a whole new phase of life. Congratulations and best wishes from the entire MissNowMrs team!

Name Change After Marriage 8 Step Checklist and Guide for 2023

Name Change After Marriage Checklist

  1. Gather Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
  2. File for Your New Social Security Card
  3. Get your new Driver’s License, Vehicle Title, and Registration
  4. Change your Voter Registration Information
  5. File for your new Passport
  6. Change your name with the US Postal Service (USPS)
  7. Update Bank Accounts, Credit Cards, and Mortgage
  8. Update Professional Organizations, Utilities, and Vendors
How to Change Your Name in Idaho 2021

Many Newlywed find that changing their last name after getting married poses a bit of a challenge. Name change after marriage does requires some work.

I had the horrible experience changing my name after my wedding because I didn’t know where to start or what to do, and I made some mistakes along the way. But I don’t want you to feel frustrated like I did, so I created something MissNowMrs.com to make it easier for newlyweds like you to change your name after getting married.

I also made this special guide and checklist just for you if you want to change your name yourself and It includes a checklist that tells you all the things you need to do. It will help you through the whole process if you decide to do it on your own.

But remember, changing your name after marriage takes time and patience. You might need a few months to finish everything but don’t worry if it feels like it’s taking a while.

Changing your name after getting married might seem like a big task, but you can use this guide to make sure you are moving in the right direction.

Avoid These Mistakes When Changing To Your Married Name

  • The name on any flights you book MUST match your passport
  • Allow 16 weeks for your new passport
  • Not all states allow you to hyphenate or change your last name to your middle
  • A complete name change will probably require a separate court order
  • You Cannot Make Your Own Copies of your Marriage Certificate (You have to order them)

Gather Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate

In the married name change process, you will typically need your Marriage Certificate as proof of your marriage. Your wedding officiant usually provides you with the original certificate, which you should keep safe. However, you will need certified copies of the marriage certificate for most steps.

Obtaining certified copies is a relatively simple task. You can contact the office that issued the marriage certificate, usually the county where the marriage took place, via email or phone. Request the certified copies, and it is advisable to order three copies to ensure you have enough. The office may charge a small fee for this service and will send the certified copies to you by mail.

File for Your New Social Security Card

You Social Security Card is required in many of the other steps towards changing to your married name, so you will want to do this first. You will need to file with the Social Security Administration (SSA) and provide them some paperwork via mail or in person. To find your local SSA Office use this link SSA Office Locator.

You will need to complete the Social Security Administration form which can be downloaded SSA Form SS-5. When signing, use your new married name.

For your married name change you will need to provide proof of age, identify and citizenship. If you have a valid US Passport then that will meet all these requirements. Otherwise you will likely need to provide two documents.

Evidence of Age:

In general, you must provide your birth certificate. Some of the other documents they might accept are:

  • U.S. hospital record of your birth (created at the time of birth)
  • Religious record established before age five showing your age or date of birth
  • Passport
  • Final Adoption Decree (the adoption decree must show that the birth information was taken from the original birth certificate)

Proof of your identity:

  • U.S. driver’s license; or
  • U.S. State-issued non-driver identity card; or
  • U.S. passport

Evidence of U.S. Citizenship:

  • U.S. birth certificate; or
  • U.S. Passport
  • Consular Report of Birth
  • Certificate of Citizenship
  • Certificate of Naturalization

You can mail these documents along with the SS-5 to the local SSA office, or take them there in person.

Get your new Driver’s License, Vehicle Title, and Registration

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) is different in every state, but in general, for a married name change, you will need a certified copy of your marriage license and your new social security card. Check with your DMV/MVA before heading into their office because it is important to make that you have all the documentation they require along with the appropriate payment method. Additionally there are usually multiple forms for your driver’s license, Title and Registration.

The MissNowMrs.com name change kit has detailed instructions for each state.

Change your Voter Registration Information

In some states voter registration is changed at the same time your change your driver’s license, in other states it is a separate process. A married name change can often be done through the US Postal Service, otherwise check at Vote.Gov for the requirements in your state.

File for your new Passport

The US Department of State issues passports and has three different passport forms that can be used for married name change, depending on your situation

  • Use DS-5504 if your passport was issued less than a year ago
  • Use DS-82 if your passport was issued more than a year ago
  • Use DS-11 if you have never applied for a passport before
  • Use DS-11 if your passport has expired for more than five years

NOTE that you will need a properly taken passport photo printed on properly sized paper. Some post offices offer this service or the MissNowMrs Mobile App can take care of this for you.

You will need to mail the application and fees, along with supporting documentation (including your current passport) to the State Department.

An Adult Passport Book cost $130, but other fees might apply if you want a passport card, or wish to expedite service.

NOTE that as of 7/1/2023 the State Department is reporting a 13 week delay in processing passports, and that is in addition to the time to mail the application in and have the new passport mailed back. Expect 16 weeks.

Change your name with the US Postal Service (USPS)

You only have to change your name with USPS if you are moving. The USPS will use the name on your credit or debit card to confirm your last name, so the best process is:

  • Change your address, old address to new, using your MAIDEN name on USPS Website
  • Change your name on your credit or debit card
  • Change your address again, old address to new, using your new MARRIED NAME on the USPS Website

Update Bank Accounts, Credit Cards, and Mortgage

It is usually easiest to visit your local branch to change your name on your bank accounts and make sure to bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate and an updated passport or driver’s license.

If visiting the local branch is not an option, then it’s best to call the bank and see what they require. Not all banks will require that you mail your certified marriage license, many will take a photo-copy, but you will need to check.

Update Professional Organizations, Utilities, and Vendors

This process might take a little longer, as you identify each organization that has your maiden name on file. A simple form letter usually work, accompanied by photo copies of your marriage certificate and updated drivers license.

To: [Organization Name]
    [Organization Address]

From: [Your Maiden Name]
      [Your Address as the organization has it on file]

Account: [Account ID]

To whom it may concern,
I am writing to inform you of that I have changed my name [and address].
Please update your to reflect my new name and address which is:
      [Your New Married Name]
      [Your New Address]

2020 Article

Written by · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds, Uncategorized · Tagged: Married Name Change, Name Change after Marriage, Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds

How to Change Your Name in New York City | 2021

How to Change Your Name in New York City

Are you wondering how to change your name in New York City? The name change experts at MissNowMrs created this guide to help you save time and stress. Why? Because navigating your name change with state and government agencies in New York City can take over 13 hours!

The New York City Name Change Process

1. Understand New York City Name Change Laws

New York allows most version of married name change, but not taking your maiden as a middle name. Fortunately, there’s a loophole! It is possible to take your maiden name as a middle name IF you file your name change forms in a specific order.

File your Social Security form and your U.S. Passport forms first. Next, wait to receive both of those new documents back in your new name. Then, you can go to the New York DMV and file for your new driver’s license. Your updated Social Security card and passport will provide the necessary 6 points of identification needed by the agency for your name change.

2. The Social Security Administration

To begin your name change, find and fill out the SS-5 form. Then decide if you wish to file in-person or by mail. You will need to provide a certified marriage certificate and your driver’s license or U.S. passport for the form to be processed. Please note that photocopies are not accepted, even if you file by mail.

Pre-COVID, it typically took 2 weeks for your new SS card to be mailed to you. Now, it’s anywhere from 3-6 weeks. Your new card will have your new name, but your SSN will remain the same. If you elected to file by mail, your marriage certificate and form of ID will be returned with your new card.

3. The IRS

Completing the IRS 8822 form is not mandatory. However, it’s only 11 questions, you can file it by mail, and ensures that the IRS does not hold your tax returns if there is confusion regarding your married and married names. We consider it a no brainer!

4. The State Department

The State Department has three different name change forms, depending on your current passport status. They are the DS-11, the DS-82, and the DS-5504. After filling in the correct form, file it with your current passport, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, two passport photos, and the listed processing fee.

Usually U.S. passports take 5-6 weeks to be processed and issued. With COVID delays, that timeline can be even longer. So, it is important to take any upcoming international travel into account, before changing your name on your passport. TSA will not authorize travel under a name that is different from your current reservation.

5. The New York City DMV

Once you have your new SS card and passport in your married name, it’s time to tackle changing your name on your driver’s license. Complete the New York Department of Motor Vehicles Application for Driver’s license and bring it to the DMV along with your current driver’s license, certified marriage certificate in English, SS card, passport, and proof of residence if you have recently moved. The fee for your new license is $12.50, and it will be issued the same day you apply.

6. The New York City Voter Registration Bureau

Next up is updating your name with the New York Voter Registration Bureau. Simply complete the New York State Voter Registration Application and mail it to your County Board of Elections with a photocopy of your new driver’s license. This ensures that you will be able to vote under your married name in the next election.

7. ALL of Your Creditors and Accounts

As you wrap up filing all government forms, it’s time to update all of your creditors. We advise starting with your employer and your banking institutions. Typically, they will ask you to file a form in-person and show a certified marriage certificate (and occasionally your new SS card.)

Next, update your name with your loan providers, credit card companies, mortgage providers, utilities, and professional licensing boards. Most of them will change your name by phone, or via an online form. Finally, change your name on of your accounts, memberships, periodicals, frequent flyer programs, and on social media. Every company’s policy will be different, but many will allow you to login and make the update on your own.

8. New York City Name Change Made Easy

Now that you’ve learned how to change your name in New York City are you anxious? Skip 13 hours of stress and hassle with the MissNowMrs name change app or online service. We’d be delighted to streamline your name change into a matter of minutes!

New York City Married Name Change Service

Written by · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds

How to Change Your Name in Wyoming | 2021

How to Change Your Name in Wyoming


Working out how to change your name in Wyoming? The name change experts at MissNowMrs created this 7 step guide to save you time and stress as you make the switch from Miss to Mrs. in your state!

The Wyoming Name Change Process

1. The Social Security Administration

Step one in your name change process is changing your name on your Social Security Card. Find and complete the SS-5 form and then choose if you prefer to file by mail or in person. Either way, you will need to bring/include a certified marriage certificate and your U.S. passport or Wyoming driver’s license.

The SSA typically issues new SS cards 2 weeks after your form is processed. Your new card with your new name will arrive in the mail along with your supporting documents. While your name has changed, your SSN will remain the same.

2. The IRS

Step two involves notifying the Internal Revenue Service of your married name. Fill out the IRS-8822 form and mail it with a photocopy of your marriage certificate to the office address listed for Wyoming residents. This form is not required, but it ensures that your tax refund will be issued in your new name with zero snags or delays. We highly advise filing it!

3. The State Department

Your third step is changing your name with the US State Department. Your current passport status dictates if you should complete the DS-11, DS-82 or the DS-5504 form. You have the option to file the DS-11 and DS-82 via mail. But, the DS-5504 should be filed at a Passport Agency in person.

When filing, be sure to include your completed form with a certified marriage certificate, two 2×2 photos, and the appropriate processing fee. Your new passport with your new name will arrive in the mail 5-6 weeks after your form is processed. So, take any international travel into account before you file!

4. The Wyoming DMV

Step four is changing your name on your Wyoming driver’s license. This involves filling out a driver’s license application form and filing it in-person at the DMV. You must bring your new SS card showing your married name, your current license, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, and proof of residence if your address has changed. Your license will be issued the same day you apply, and the fee is $15.

5. The Wyoming Voter Registration Bureau

Step five includes a visit to your county clerk’s office. Print out the Wyoming Voter Registration Application/Change form and complete the question. Then head to your county clerk so they can witness you signing the form. You will need to show the clerk your driver’s license with your married name so they can process your request. Should you be out of state, you can mail your notarized registration form to the county clerk with a photocopy of your driver’s license.

6. ALL of Your Creditors and Accounts

Following submitting your government name change forms, it is time to notify all of your creditors. We advise starting with your employer followed by your banking institutions. Typically, they will ask you to file a form in-person and show a certified marriage certificate (and occasionally your new SS card.)

Next, update your name with your loan providers, credit card companies, mortgage providers, utilities, and professional licensing boards. A majority of them will change your name by phone, or use an online form. Finally, change your name on all of your accounts, memberships, periodicals, frequent flyer programs, and on social media. Every company’s policy will vary, but many will allow you to login and make the update on your own.

7. Wyoming Name Change Simplified

Now that you know how to change your name in Wyoming do you wish there was an easier way? The MissNowMrs name change app or online name change service streamlines the 13 hour hassle into a matter of minutes. Join 500,000+ newlyweds that let us simplify their name change!

Wyoming Married Name Change Service

Written by · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds, State Name Change Tips

How to Change Your Name in North Dakota | 2021

How to Change Your Name in North Dakota

Wondering how to change your name in North Dakota? The name change experts at MissNowMrs put together this step-by-step guide to save you time and stress as you navigate your married name change as a newlywed!

The North Dakota Name Change Process

1. Your Social Security Card

If you’re ready to change your name, start with the Social Security Administration. Complete the SS-5 form, and choose if you wish to file by mail or in-person. You will need to file your form with a certified marriage certificate and either your U.S. passport or North Dakota driver’s license. *Please note that photocopies are not accepted.

Approximately 2 weeks after your form is processed, your new SS card will arrive in the mail. The card will bear your new married name, but your SSN will remain the same. If you opted to file by mail, your supporting documents will be returned in the same envelope as your new card.

2. The IRS

The next step is informing the Internal Revenue Service of your married name. Fill out the IRS-8822 form and mail it to the address associated with your state listed on the second page. You will need to include a photocopy of your marriage certificate with your form.

The IRS-8822 is not required, but taking the time to complete 11 questions ensures that when tax returns are issued, there are no holds placed on yours due to name change confusion. We think it’s totally worthwhile!

3. Your U.S. Passport

Then notify the State Department of your new married name. They have 3 different name change forms, tied to your current passport status. These forms are the DS-11, the DS-82, and the DS-5504. After filling in the form for your situation, file it with your current passport, a certified marriage certificate, two passport photos, and the appropriate processing fee.

U.S. passports tend to take 5-6 weeks to be processed and issued. With COVID delays, that timeline may be several weeks longer (even with expedited service.) So, be sure to take any upcoming international travel into account, before changing your name on your passport. TSA will not allow travel under a name that is different from your current tickets/reservation.

4. Your North Dakota Driver’s License

Now it’s time to change your name on your driver’s license. Head to the North Dakota DMV with your current license, a certified marriage certificate, and proof of residence if your address has changed. Be sure to bring your birth certificate or U.S. passport if you are exchanging an out of state license. Your new license will be issued the same day you apply! The fee is $3.00.

5. Your North Dakota Voter Registration

North Dakota is the only state that does not have or require a voter registration form. So, you can vote with your married name as soon as it’s on your driver’s license or U.S. passport. *Be sure to bring one of these forms of ID with you when you go to vote.

6. ALL of Your Creditors and Accounts

As you receive all new government forms of ID, it’s time to update your name with all of your creditors. We advise beginning with your employer and banking institutions. Typically, they will ask you to file a form in-person and show a certified marriage certificate (and sometimes your new SS card.)

Next, change your name with your loan providers, credit card companies, mortgage providers, utilities, and professional licensing boards. Most of them will update your name by phone, or via an online form. Finally, change your name on of your accounts, memberships, periodicals, frequent flyer programs, and on social media. Each company’s policy will vary, but many will allow you to login and make the update on your own.

7. North Dakota Name Change the Easy Way

Now that you’ve learned how to change your name in North Dakota are you feeling stressed at the thought of just accomplishing the first step? Don’t worry! The MissNowMrs name change app and online service will save you 13 hours of hassle. Allow us to help you transition from Miss to Mrs. in a matter of minutes!

North Dakota Married Name Change Service

Written by · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds, State Name Change Tips

How to Change Your Name in South Dakota | 2021

How to change your name in South Dakota


Researching how to change your name in South Dakota? You’re reading the right article! The MissNowMrs name change experts wrote this 7 step guide to help you save time and stress as you navigate your name change with state and government agencies.

The South Dakota Name Change Process

1. The Social Security Administration

The first place to change your name in on your Social Security card. You will need to complete the SS-5 form and decide if you wish to file by mail or in person at the office. The necessary supporting documents to bring/mail are your current passport or your South Dakota driver’s license and a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

Approximately 2 weeks after your form is processed you will receive a new SS card in the mail. The card will show your new married name, but your SSN will stay the same. If you opted to file by mail, your marriage certificate and passport/license will be mailed back to you along with your updated card.

2. The IRS

The second agency to change your name with is the Internal Revenue Service. Fill out the IRS-8822 form and mail it to the office address on the second page that corresponds to your current state of residence. You will need to include a photo copy of your marriage certificate with your form.

3. The State Department

Next up is changing your name with the US State Department. Your current passport status dictates if you should complete the DS-11, DS-82 or the DS-5504 form. You have the option to file the DS-11 and DS-82 via mail. But, the DS-5504 should be filed at a Passport Agency in person.

When filing, be sure to include your completed form with a certified marriage certificate, two 2×2 photos, and the appropriate processing fee. Your new passport with your new name will arrive in the mail 5-6 weeks after your form is processed. So, take any international travel into account before you file!

4. The South Dakota DMV

Changing your name on your driver’s license is your first state-level application. First, fill out the South Dakota Driver’s License Application. Then head to the DMV with your current license, SS card, U.S. passport or birth certificate, and two proofs of residence, such as a utility bill or pay stub. Heads up! The fee for your new license will be $10 in cash or check. No credit cards are accepted.

5. The South Dakota Voter Registration Bureau

The next state-level agency to update your name with is the Voter Registration Bureau. This process is very straight forward. Simply complete the South Dakota Voter Registration form with your new name, and mail it to your county auditor. Filing this form ensures your ability to vote under your married name in the next election.

6. ALL of Your Creditors and Accounts

As you finish submitting your government name change forms, it is time to notify all of your creditors. We advise starting with your employer followed by your banking institutions. Typically, they will ask you to file a form in-person and show a certified marriage certificate (and occasionally your new SS card.)

Next, update your name with your loan providers, credit card companies, mortgage providers, utilities, and professional licensing boards. A majority of them will change your name by phone, or use an online form. Finally, change your name on all of your accounts, memberships, periodicals, frequent flyer programs, and on social media. Every company’s policy will vary, but many will allow you to login and make the update on your own.

7. South Dakota Name Change Made Easy

Do all of the steps of how to change your name in South Dakota overwhelm you? It can be really difficult to make time for name change on top of a busy work and life schedule. Great news! The MissNowMrs name change app or online service automates the name change process for you. Skip the 13 hours of traditional hassle and go from Miss to Mrs. in a matter of minutes today!

South Dakota Married Name Change Service

Written by · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds, State Name Change Tips

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