Here’s the full scoop on name change FAQ. Our name change experts have all of the answers to the most frequently asked questions we hear from nearly weds and newlyweds! Everything from legal name change questions, to which documents are required, and what to expect during the process.
Top Name Change Questions and Answers
What are my name change options?
There are 6+ name change options available in most states. Taking your spouse’s last name, hyphenating last names, taking 2 last names without a hyphen, taking your maiden name as a middle name, taking your maiden name as a second middle name, and of course not changing your name at all. For more information on name change options, check out this article.
Do I have to change my name after marriage?
Name change after marriage is not required by law. It is a personal decision.
Is married name change the same as legal name change?
Married name change allows you to legally change your last (and sometimes middle) name based on marriage. Married name change is a separate process from legal name change. For more clarification, we wrote this article on the topic.
Can I change my first name during a married name change?
No. Changing your first name (even the spelling) is not possible using the married name change process. You will need to file for a legal name change order.
Can I blend last names with my spouse?
If you live in California, and both of you write your blended last name on your marriage license application, you can use the married name change process to have a blended last name. If you live in any other state, you will need to file for a legal name change order to blend your last names.
Is there a limited time period for changing my name?
Most states ask that newlyweds change their names within 30 days of marriage, but that is never enforced. We’ve had clients change their names decades after their wedding.
What entities need to be notified of my name change?
All federal and state government agencies need to be notified of your name change. You will also need to notify your employer, and all of your creditors. For a detailed list of who to notify, please check out our name change after marriage checklist.
What documentation do I need to change my name?
A certified marriage certificate is required to file for your name change. Photocopies are not accepted. Each individual office will have an additional list of supporting documents needed to process your name change request.
My maiden name is listed on my marriage certificate, is that an issue?
Most marriage certificates require the maiden name to be listed. So, it’s not a issue! Your marriage certificate is your legal proof of marriage, not your intended last name.
How much does name change cost?
Depending on your passport status and state of residence, name change fees range from at total of $110 to $150. You can check the State Department website for passport fees and your state DMV website for driver’s license fees. All other offices do not have a filing fee.
How long does the married name change process take?
The State Department takes approximately 5-6 to issue your new passport. Social Security issues new cards within 2 weeks of receiving your application, and most DMVs issue new driver’s licenses the same day you apply. When all forms of ID show your new married name, it is officially changed!
How does name change impact my travel plans?
Name change can impact domestic and international flights, so it is important to time your name change appropriately.
Check out our articles on honeymoon travel tips and Global Entry name change.
Did our name change FAQ help you understand name change after marriage? If you still have questions, you can always reach out to our name change experts via text, email, or phone. Have questions about how the MissNowMrs name change app and service work? Head over to our FAQ page to better understand how we save our clients 13+ hours of name change drama!