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You are here: Home / Archives for Newlywed Needs

Newlywed Needs

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!

Jun 17 2020

How to Change to Your Married Name in California | 2020

How to Change Your Name in California

Wondering how to change your maiden name to your married name in California? There are several federal and state-level name change forms to complete and file to legally make the switch to Mrs. If you’re curious about the 6 step process in California, we have the scoop for you!

The California Name Change Process

Step 1. File for your Social Security Card

Complete the SS-5 and either file the form in person or by mail. You will need to show or include your certified marriage certificate and your U.S. passport or state driver’s license or ID. Within two weeks the Social Security Administration will mail you your new SS card with your new married name!

Step 2: Notify the IRS of Your Married Name

The IRS 8822 form is technically optional. You do not have to file it, but it’s short, free, and prevents the potential nightmare of the IRS not knowing about your married name change and holding your tax returns until they “sort out” the situation.

Step 3: File for Your California Driver’s License

The California DMV is the only office you are required to file your name-change form in person. The reason? They need to take a new photo to go with your new name! Be sure to bring your completed DL-44 form, your current driver’s license, proof of residence (ex: utility bills,) and $33. *You must wait 24 hours after filing with the Social Security Administration, so if you mailed your forms it is wise to wait at least a week.

Step 4: File for Your New Passport

Filing for your new passport, is the last federal step you need to take to legally change your name. There are three different application forms based on if, and how long you have had a passport. Complete the form that is appropriate for your situation, and then file it by mail (unless it’s your first passport) along with two 2×2 passport photos, your certified marriage certificate, and the appropriate fee.

*The State Department realizes that many newlyweds file for a passport to go on their honeymoons. So, if you have had your current passport for less than 12 months, you can file for your new one for free! Consider it a wedding gift from the government.

Step 5: Notify Your Creditors of Your Married Name

Now it’s time to notify your banks, credit cards, insurance providers, mortgage providers, loan providers, professional license boards, utility companies, gyms, magazine subscription companies, etc. of your new married name. The can be done with individual letters and phone calls.

Step 6: Work Smarter NOT Harder on Your California Name Change

Instead of locating, completing, and figuring out how to file all of your name change forms and notification letters, use the MissNowMrs app or easy online name change service. We’ll take you from Miss to Mrs. in a matter of minutes, instead of 13 hours!

Help Me Change My Name
Our name change experts made a video explaining the California married name change process for you!


 

Written by Danielle Tate · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds, Newlywed Needs · Tagged: California Married Name Change, California Name Change, maiden name change, Married Name Change, Name Change after Marriage, Newlywed Name Change

Jun 02 2020

Prenups and Postnups

Prenups and Postnups

Curious about prenups and postnups? If you’re a bride-to-be or newlywed thinking the idea of a prenuptial agreement, you are not alone. The legal contracts once thought to be reserved for the rich and famous are becoming increasingly popular with millennials – and we mean seriously popular. As in, there was a 62% rise in prenuptial agreements created for millennials between 2013 and 2016 alone. The good news is that if you are recently married (and kudos for doing so just before or during this global pandemic), you didn’t miss the boat on your chance to reap the benefits of a financial agreement between spouses – in the form of a postnup!

While the pre- and post- prepositions define the type of contract between spouses (you cant sign a prenuptial agreement once you are married, or a postnuptial agreement until after you are married) a “postnup” is very similar in concept to the more common “prenup.” Confused yet? Don’t be. We’re here to guide you through the ins and outs of prenups and postnups, and why they might not just be for A-list celebs anymore.

Prenups & Postnups Defined

Both prenups and postnups are legal contracts that lay out which spouse is entitled to what “property” in the case of a divorce, by superseding state divorce law. Without one of these agreements, the division of your assets is left up to the laws of your state. A prenup or postnup helps to make it more likely that in the unfortunate event of a divorce, the division of assets and debt takes place on terms you and your spouse had already agreed to.

Generally speaking, prenuptial agreements are more widely enforced than postnuptial agreements, in large part because they have been around a lot longer. Many state courts will uphold postnuptial agreements as long as they are in writing, signed without coercion, and fulfill  disclosure requirements of both parties. Of course, nothing about prenups or postnups is foolproof, and the specific requirements for enforcement vary greatly from state to state.

Why You May Want a Prenup or Postnup

1. You Will Receive a Future Inheritance

A prenuptial or postnuptial agreement allows couples to dictate what happens to an inheritance that one of the parties may receive, in the event the marriage ends. How this division would occur absent a prenup or postnup is dependent on your state – for example, in community property states, all assets acquired during the marriage are generally split equally, and this can include an inheritance if it was comingled. In equitable division states, the inheritance could be subject to division, based on whether the marriage was only a few years long, or a long term marriage, as well as whether it was comingled, among a variety of factors that vary greatly from state to state. The point here? A prenup or postnup allows you and your spouse to decide for yourselves what should happen to that inheritance, rather than allow state law to decide for you.

2. You Are the Less Wealthy Spouse

Let’s say you’re entering the marriage with significantly fewer assets than your spouse. Guess what? A prenup or postnup can offer you great protective benefits. Depending on what you and your spouse decide to include in the contract, your prenup or postnup can ensure that future alimony is part of the deal, dictate a certain financial payout for each year of marriage to ensure future financial security, and even dictate the date that the agreement should terminate (called a sunset clause).

3. You Own a Business

A prenup or postnup allows a couple to categorize a business as “separate property.” Meaning that such property will remain the property of one spouse if a divorce is to occur in the future. This is crucial for a spouse that owns their own business, because valuing a business for purposes of divorce can be both incredibly expensive and time consuming. What a waste of resources! To balance things out, the business owning spouse may consider agreeing that the other spouse receive a larger share of the marital assets. There are always ways to make sure everybody wins.

4. Either You or Your Spouse Have Student Debt

Who doesn’t have student debt these days? On top of the other financial concerns when combining finances,  there are three cringe-worthy words that tend to amplify financial stress for many these days: student loan debt.  65% of graduates carry student loans debt at an average of about $35,000 in federal loans per person. That doesn’t even include private loans! As the cost of education has skyrocketed, student loans place a heavy financial burden on millennials that was unheard of in previous generations. So, why not do something now to mitigate all those “what if” money worries in the back of your mind?

Having a Prenup or Postnup Tends to Lead to Healthier Marriages

While prenups and postnups have long been stigmatized as, well, less-than-romantic, many engaged and newly married couples realize that they can lay the groundwork for a healthy and transparent relationship with finances throughout the marriage. It’s a fact that couples who talk about finances more regularly have healthier marriages. Simultaneously, and probably to no surprise, money serves as the leading cause of stress in marriages.

After all, a prenup or postnup isn’t just about finances. It’s about your relationship and open, honest communication. When crafted properly, these agreements can allow you and your partner to determine what you want in the case of a divorce. Instead of taking what relevant state law dictates. This increasing predisposition to such agreements isn’t happening because people don’t trust each other. But, rather because marriage is about partnership, and a partnership requires open communication about finances.

Until recently, prenups and postnups have been an underutilized, yet simple tool to set you and your partner up for financial and marital success. Are you are not yet married and interested in creating a prenuptial agreement? HelloPrenup is a service that allows users to create a prenup online in just a few hours, at a reasonable cost. If you are already married and interested in a formal financial agreement with your spouse, remember – it is never too late to begin the postnup process. After all, we can all benefit from little bit of financial security.

Written by Danielle Tate · Categorized: Newlywed Needs, Uncategorized

Apr 15 2020

Name Change After Marriage In Texas: Tips & Tricks

Texas Married Name Change

Are you getting marred in the Lone Star State? If so, don’t forget to think about your name change. Not every bride changes her name, but 88% of women in the United States do elect to change their names after marriage. If you’re confused about your options or the name change process, don’t worry! We have all the insider tips and tricks you need to easily change to your married name in Texas.

Texas Married Name Change Options

Let’s talk options. As someone getting married in Texas, you can keep your maiden name. Take your spouse’s last name. Hyphenate your last names. Take two last names without a hyphen. Or, take your maiden name as a middle name. Uncertain which new last name is best for you? Answer a few questions at the Married Name Game. Your ideal option will be calculated based on key life indicators and your personal style.

Texas Marriage License Tips

One you’ve decided upon the name change that works best for you, the next step is filing for your marriage license. In Texas, you are not required to write your intended married name on the application, so no worries there. Once you get married, the county clerk’s office will issue you a certified marriage certificate. This is the legal document you need to file your federal and state name change forms. We highly suggest purchasing one or two additional certified copies so you can file multiple name-change forms.

Texas Married Name Change Forms & Advice

Next up, is finding and completing the appropriate name change forms to update your name with the Social Security Administration, the State Department (for your new passport,) the IRS, the US Postal Service. The Social Security Administration will process your form and issue your new Social Security card within 2 weeks. *Please note that while your name changes, your Social Security number will remain the same. The State Department will process your request and issue your new U.S. passport within 5-6 weeks unless you elect to pay for expedited service.

After filing with the federal agencies, you will need to file your state-level name change forms. Texas was one of the only states that didn’t have a name change form for you to complete. But, now it does! Simply bring your completed DMV form, current driver’s license, your certified marriage certificate, proof of residence (ex: utility bill, paycheck,) and $11 for the processing fee.

You will also need to update your name with the Voter Registration Bureau, and on your vehicle title or lease. The last step before you are an official Mrs., is to notify all of your banks, credit cards, insurances, mortgages, and service providers of your new married name. Many times you can call these offices to request your name change. Or, you can send a notification letter requesting the new name on your account.

The Simple Name Change Solution

If the name change process seems overwhelming, or like it would take some of the fun out of your newlywed bliss, we have good news! MissNowMrs is the easiest way to go from Miss to Mrs. Our easy name change app or online name-change service condenses the tedious 13 hours process into minutes! You then choose whether you want to print your forms or have us print them for you. We’re happy to mail them to you along with pre-addressed pre-posted envelopes. Our goal is to make your new beginning easier!

Don’t miss our video about Texas Name Change!

Written by Danielle Tate · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds, Newlywed Needs · Tagged: bride name change, Married Name Change, Name Change after Marriage, texas married name change, texas name change

Jan 02 2018

5 New Years Name Change Tips

5 New Year Name Change Tips

Happy New Year! Here are 5 New Years name change tips! Was changing your name part of your New Year’s resolution? If so, you’re joining the millions of newlyweds who opt to change their names after marriage. As with any resolution, to be successful you need to break the goal into small steps. Below are steps to changing your maiden name, and our suggestions on how to check this resolution off your list in the next two weeks and spend the majority of 2018 as a Mrs.!

Step 1: Find your certified marriage certificate.

Order 2-3 additional certified marriage certificates from the county clerk’s office. This is the legal document you need to file all of your federal and state name-change forms. By having more that one copy, you can file several forms at the same time and become a Mrs. much faster!

Step 2: Select the name change option that best suits you and your life.

You can option to hyphenate, take two last names without a hyphen, take your maiden name as a second middle name, replace your middle name with your maiden name, or take your spouse’s last name. If you’re torn between choices, play the Married Name Game to learn your ultimate last name.

Step 3: File your federal forms.

We suggest filing the SS-5 with the Social Security Administration first, and then file the IRS 8822, notify the USPS, and file the DS-11, DS-82, or DS-5504 with the State Department for your new passport in your new married name.

Step 4: File your state-level name change forms.

These include forms to update your name on your new driver’s license, voter registration, and vehicle title. Each state has different requirements, so we highly recommend researching what you need to file with your name change forms. Many states require proof of residence, your certified marriage certificate, and another form of ID such as your new Social Security Card or U.S. passport. Knowing the office requirements in advance will save you from making multiple trips to change your name.

Step 5: Notify your creditors.

Call the 800 numbers on the backs of your credit cards, go in-person to your bank branch, and then begin notifying your employer, utilities, mortgage providers, professional licenses, loan providers, etc. of your new married name.

Newlywed Life Hack.

Instead of re-inventing the married-name change wheel, use the MissNowMrs easy online name change service. They condense the tedious 13 hour process into 30 minutes… and after assisting over 400,000 brides with their name changes, they’re experts that can help you with any difficult situations or questions!
 

Written by Danielle Tate · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds, Newlywed Needs · Tagged: maiden name change, Married Name Change, Name Change after Marriage, Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds, Name Change Forms, new years resolution

Nov 21 2017

Top 5 Black Friday Deals For Newlyweds

Top 5 Newlywed Black Friday Deals

It’s time for turkey, shopping, and the holidays! As you look for gifts, don’t miss out on the top 5 Black Friday deals that will help you celebrate your newlywed status and your new married name.
 

Newlywed Black Friday Deals |mrs wine glass

Tis the season to be jolly… so why not order a stemless wine glass with your new married name to enjoy your cup(s) of cheer? This elegant glass is 50% off with the code: EVERYTHING at Shutterfly!

Newlywed Black Friday Deals | miss to mrs ring dish

Where are you keeping your wedding rings when you’re not wearing them? If the answer is not in a special/safe location. Then, you are in dire need of this adorable ring dish! It’s a stylish way to celebrate your transition from Miss to Mrs.  And, the best part? This ring dish is 30% off with the code: GIVEJOY for Black Friday!

Black Friday Newlywed Deals | Mr and Mrs Towels

Mr. & Mrs. towels are a cute, yet practical way to celebrate your marriage and spruce up your master bathroom. So, use the code: SCORE to save an extra 15% on your purchase. You’ll smile every time you dry off after a shower or bath.

Newlywed Black Friday Deals | Mrs Earrings

Kate Spade has newlywed chic on lock, and Macy’s has a Black Friday deal on these gold Mrs. earrings. They’re an understated way to celebrate your new married name and status at work and on the weekends.

Newlywed Black Friday Deals | family pillow

Looking for a way to celebrate the day you became a family? This custom pillow from West Elm lets you showcase your new name and new family status with style. It’s perfect for your living room couch or as an accent pillow in your master bedroom. If you can’t decide, buy two! They’re 30% off with the code: SAVEMORE for Black Friday!

Get Your New Name Before the Holidays

We hope our list gets you excited about shopping as a Mrs. And, if you haven’t quite made the switch. We’d love to assist you with your name change. Our easy online name change app and service streamline the process into  minutes. So, you have time to officially become a Mrs. before your purchases and the holidays arrive!

Written by Danielle Tate · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds, Newlywed Needs · Tagged: Black Friday Deals, holiday shopping, MissNowMrs, mrs, Name Change after Marriage, Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds, Newlywed

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