Newlywed Needs

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!

How to Change to Your Married Name in California

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When embarking on the journey of changing your name after marriage in California, it is essential to be aware of the series of federal and state-level forms and notifications that need to be undertaken. This comprehensive 7-step process will diligently guide you through all the necessary procedures. We will assist you in adopting your new married name. It’s important to note that your marriage certificate will play a role as the key document required throughout this process. Also, contrary to some assumptions, there is no name change application form for California residence.

Before you begin this name change process you will need to obtain multiple certified copies of your marriage certificate. These copies serve as crucial documentation when updating various records and identifications with your new name. These documents are provided by the county where the marriage took place.

How to Change Your Last Name in California After Getting Married

Step 1. File for your Social Security Card with your Married Name

Now that you’re ready to change your name, the first step is to complete the SS-5 form, the Social Security Administration’s official application for a new Social Security card. You can obtain this form from their website or visit a local Social Security office to get a physical copy.

Make sure to fill out the form accurately, providing all the necessary information. You’ll need to include your personal details, such as your current name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Indicate that you’re applying for a name change due to marriage and provide your new married name as it appears on your certified marriage certificate.

Once you’ve completed the form, the next step is to submit it along with the required documents. You’ll need to show or include your certified marriage certificate, which serves as evidence of your recent marriage and validates the name change. Additionally, you must provide proof of your identity, which can be either your U.S. passport or your state driver’s license or identification card.

After ensuring all the documents are in order, you have two options for filing the form: you can either do it in person by visiting your local Social Security office, or you can opt to mail the completed SS-5 form and the supporting documents to the Social Security Administration.

Once your application is processed, you can expect to receive your new Social Security card in approximately two weeks. It’s essential to verify all the information on the card for accuracy once you receive it.

Remember, obtaining your updated Social Security card is a vital step in the name change process. It will serve as official documentation of your new name for various legal and administrative purposes. Following these steps diligently will ensure a seamless transition to your new married name, allowing you to embrace your new identity with confidence and ease.

Step 2: Notify the IRS of Your Married Name Change

The IRS Form 8822 serves as a formal notification to the Internal Revenue Service about your name change due to marriage. While not filing the form won’t necessarily lead to immediate consequences, it’s prudent to consider the possible scenarios that may arise if the IRS remains unaware of your name change. Failing to inform the IRS about your married name could lead to complications and delays in processing your tax returns.

By taking a few minutes to fill out the IRS Form 8822 and providing accurate information about your name change, you can help prevent any hitches that might otherwise arise during tax season. This proactive approach ensures that the IRS is well-informed about your updated identity, reducing the risk of any unnecessary delays or inquiries.

Moreover, notifying the IRS through Form 8822 can be especially valuable if you’ve had any tax-related issues in the past or anticipate complex financial matters in the future. Keeping your records up-to-date with the IRS will contribute to the smooth handling of your tax affairs. This should provide you with added peace of mind.

Given its ease of completion and the potential advantages it offers, the IRS Form 8822 can be seen as a practical step to safeguard yourself from any inadvertent issues that may occur with your tax returns. It presents an opportunity to proactively manage your tax-related matters and ensure a seamless transition to your new married name without any undue stress or complications.

Step 3: File for Your California Driver’s License under your new Married Name

In the process of changing your name after marriage in California, there is one notable exception where filing the name-change form in person is mandated. That is the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The reason behind this requirement is to ensure that they can capture a new photograph of you, corresponding to your newly acquired name. This helps maintain the accuracy and security of your driver’s license, reflecting your current identity.

To successfully initiate this name-change process at the California DMV, it’s essential to come prepared with the necessary documentation. Firstly, make sure you have a completed DL-44 form, which is the official application for a driver’s license or identification card. You can obtain this form from the DMV’s website or from their physical locations.

In addition to the DL-44 form, bring along your current driver’s license, which serves as crucial identification and proof of your prior name. As part of the application process, you’ll need to verify your residence in California. Accepted documents for this purpose include utility bills or other official correspondence showing your current address.

Note that there is a $33 fee to process the name change on your driver’s license. Be prepared to make this payment during your visit to the DMV.

It’s important to note that there is a waiting period after filing your name change with the Social Security Administration. You must allow 24 hours to pass before proceeding with the name-change process at the DMV. If you mailed your name-change forms to the Social Security Administration, it is recommended to wait at least a week before visiting the DMV. This ensures that the required information has been updated in their systems.

By adhering to these guidelines and fulfilling the necessary requirements, you can confidently visit the California DMV and complete the name-change process with efficiency and ease. With your updated driver’s license and official identification, you can proudly embrace your new married name on all legal and administrative fronts.

Step 4: File for Your New Passport to Change to your Married Name

To apply for your new passport with your changed name, the US State Department has three distinct application forms. The different forms meet the requirements in different situations. This is based on whether you currently have a passport and the duration you’ve held it. Choose the form that best fits your circumstances, and then proceed with the application process.

For those individuals who already possess a passport, the application can be submitted by mail. However, if it’s your first time applying for a passport, you’ll need to apply in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. Regardless of which form are to be used, certain essential documents are required for a successful application.

Be sure to include two recent 2×2 passport-sized photos along with your application. These photos must meet the specific passport photo requirements to ensure acceptance. Moreover, a certified copy of your marriage certificate is a crucial piece of documentation. This will serve as legal evidence of your name change due to marriage.

The MissNowMrs Name Change mobile app will allow you to take your picture on your phone, and we will mail you your 2×2 passport photo along with your complete name change kit.

It’s important to note that the fee for your new passport will depend on the specific circumstances of your application. If your current passport has been in your possession for less than 12 months, the U.S. State Department offers a special benefit for newlyweds. You can apply for your new passport for free during this period. Consider it a thoughtful wedding gift from the government.

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary materials and filled out the appropriate application form, submit it as directed, whether by mail or in person for first-time applicants. The State Department will process your application, and upon approval, you’ll receive your brand-new passport reflecting your cherished married name.

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Step 5: Notify Your Creditors of Your Married Name Change

Indeed, now that you have successfully completed the federal steps and obtained your updated identification. Now it’s time to ensure that your new married name is reflected across all aspects of your life. To achieve this, it’s essential to proactively notify various entities and service providers about your name change.

A personalized and systematic approach is key when informing your banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, mortgage lenders, and loan providers of your new name. Crafting individual letters is a thoughtful way to communicate the change. This will allow you to include necessary documentation, such as a copy of your certified marriage certificate. These letters should contain pertinent details. Include your account numbers, old name, new name, and contact information, to facilitate a seamless update on their records.

In addition to written correspondence, making phone calls to these institutions can expedite the process. This will also provide an opportunity to confirm the reception of your name change request. You will often be guided through the steps necessary for updating your information by the customer service representatives. This can ensure that the transition is conducted accurately and efficiently.

A proactive approach ensures that your new name is reflected consistently across all your accounts. While the process may require some effort and patience, it will ultimately prevent any potential confusions or complications in the future.

Embrace this opportunity to establish your new identity with confidence, knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to keep all aspects of your life in harmony with your cherished married name. The thoughtful effort you invest in these notifications will undoubtedly contribute to a seamless and rewarding transition into this exciting new chapter of your life.

Step 6: Notify Vendors and Professional Organizations of your New Married Name

Undoubtedly, informing everyone, including vendors and professional organizations, about your name change is an essential step. This will ensure a smooth transition into your new married life. A comprehensive list often helps in managing this process. Include all the vendors you have affiliations with, including utility companies, service providers, and other entities you interact with.

Once your list is complete, drafting polite and concise letters or emails to each vendor becomes a practical approach. These communications should clearly state the purpose of the message—your recent name change—and provide the necessary details. Include your old name, new married name, and relevant account numbers or identification information.

For vendors that you interact with primarily online or via email communication, sending an email can be a convenient option. On the other hand, for vendors who prefer traditional correspondence, mailing a letter serves the purpose effectively.

As for professional organizations, it is essential to review their specific guidelines and protocols for name change notifications. In some situations there may be documentation or specific forms that will need to be completed, while other times there is a more straightforward process in place. Be sure to adhere to their specific requirements to ensure a successful update of your information with them.

The name change notification process may take some time, as each vendor or organization might have its own processing timeframes. Starting this process promptly after you’ve legally changed your name ensures that you stay ahead of any potential administrative challenges.

While the task of notifying multiple entities may seem daunting, approaching it with a well-organized list and can alleviate stress. Embrace this as an opportunity to embrace your new married name fully, as you confidently navigate through these notifications, paving the way for a harmonious and unified identity in all aspects of your personal and professional life.

Step 7: 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! We are here if you have any questions about how to change your name in California after marriage.

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Our name change experts made a video explaining the California married name change process for you!

The instructions are valid for married name change throughout California. This includes Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, Sacramento, Long Beach, Oakland, Bakersfield, and Anaheim.

In order to change your name in California after marriage you will need a certified copy of your marriage certificate. The county where the marriage took place can provide these documents.

Los Angeles County name change
San Diego County name change
Orange County name change
Riverside County name change
San Bernardino County name change

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.

Name Change After Marriage In Texas: Tips & Tricks

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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 on how to change your name in Texas after marriage.

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

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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. You can get started on your name change in Texas online. 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!

In order to change your name in Texas after marriage you will need to get a marriage certificate from the county that you were married in.

Harris County Texas name change
Dallas County Texas name change
Tarrant County Texas name change
Bexar County Texas name change
Travis County Texas name change

These tips and tricks for changing your name in Texas will work everywhere in the state including Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, Fort Worth, El Paso, Arlington, Corpus Christi, Plano, and Lubbock.

5 New Years 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!

Top 5 Black Friday Deals For Newlyweds

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!