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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

How to Change Your Name in California

The journey of changing your name after marriage in California. When embarking, it is essential to be aware of the series of federal and state-level forms and notifications that need to be undertaken. If you’re asking yourself, “I got married and want to change my name—where do I start?” you’re not alone. This comprehensive 7-step process will diligently guide you through all the necessary procedures for changing your name after marriage in California. 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.

There are quite a few things that are unique to California’s married name change process. Known for its population of celebrities, couples married here have the option to obtain a confidential marriage license, offering a layer of privacy not found with a standard marriage license. Unlike public licenses, a confidential marriage license keeps the marriage records sealed. This means that only the couple can request certified copies of the marriage certificate, ensuring their personal information remains private. One of the main benefits of a confidential marriage license is that it won’t show up in public records. The application process is straightforward and must be completed in person at the County Clerk’s office.

Even before the wedding, couples can choose to make their wedding day more personalized by deputizing a friend or family member to officiate the wedding as a ‘Commissioner of Civil Marriages for a Day’. It’s a relatively simple process! The individual to deputize applies through the County Clerk’s office in the county where the ceremony will take place. Depending on the county, it usually involves filling out a form, paying a small fee, and sometimes attending a brief training session. This option is ideal for couples who want someone special to officiate their wedding, adding a personal touch to the ceremony. It’s a wonderful way to involve a close friend or family member in one of the most significant moments of your life.

New Spouse, New Name, New Journey: Embrace Your New Married Life.

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It’s a relatively simple process if you’re interested in it yourself! The individual to deputize applies through the County Clerk’s office in the county where the ceremony will take place. Depending on the county, it usually involves filling out a form, paying a small fee, and sometimes attending a brief training session. The individual has the authority to perform a single marriage ceremony on the specified date.

This option is ideal for couples who want someone special to officiate their wedding, adding a personal touch to the ceremony. It’s a wonderful way to involve a close friend or family member in one of the most significant moments of your life.

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.

Where to Start with Changing Your Name After Marriage

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.

In California, many newlyweds choose to update their middle name to their maiden name after marriage, a meaningful way to preserve their family identity while embracing their new marital status. This change is particularly common among individuals who want to keep a connection to their family name without hyphenating or adding it to their last name.

To make this change, it’s essential to include the desired middle name on your marriage license application. California law allows for various name change options upon marriage, including using your maiden name as your new middle name. Your marriage certificate serves as the legal document to update your name with government agencies, employers, banks, and other institutions.

The process typically begins with updating your Social Security card. After receiving your new card, you can proceed to update your driver’s license, passport, and other official documents. Each agency has its own requirements, so be prepared to provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

This name change option provides a practical way to honor your heritage and maintain a connection to your maiden name while embracing your new life as a married person.

Once you’ve completed the form, the next step is to submit the SS-5 form 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 you keep the IRS well-informed about your identity. It reduces 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

Additionally, don’t forget to address your car registration. You might wonder, “Do you have to change your name on your car registration after marriage?” Yes, you do. What do you need to bring to the DMV to change your name?

In the process of changing your name after marriage in California, there is one notable exception that mandates filing the name-change form in person. That is the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). 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 way, the information has enough time to update 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. 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 is 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. 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 California State Department will process your application, and upon approval, you’ll receive your brand-new passport reflecting your changed married name.

New Spouse, New Name, New Journey: Embrace Your New Married Life.

With Personalized Name Change Services for Every Newlywed.

Ready for a New Name? Order Now!

Step 5: Notify Your Creditors of Your Married Name Change and Documents to Update After Marriage

Indeed, now that you have successfully completed the federal steps and obtained your updated identification. Now it’s time to incorporate your new married name 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. Customer service representatives will often guide you through the steps necessary for updating your information. It ensures 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. The effort you invest in these notifications will contribute to a 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 in California and beyond – 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. There may be specific forms or documentation to use. Be sure to adhere to their specific requirements to ensure a successful update of your information with them.

The California 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, 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. When you register for your name change kit, you create a personalized list for name change. You can ensure that you have addressed all necessary updates and legal changes. Having a tried and true list to work off of will help keep tabs on what things to change names on after marriage.

New Spouse, New Name, New Journey: Embrace Your New Married Life.

With Personalized Name Change Services for Every Newlywed.

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California Name Change Checklist:

  • Marriage Certificate
  • Social Security
  • California Driver’s License
  • Voter Registration
  • Internal Revenue Service
  • Passport
  • Post Office
  • Banks, Credit Cards and Financial Institutions
  • Work Human Resources
  • Professional Memberships
  • Utilities
  • Social Media
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.

Name Change After Marriage 8 Step Checklist and Guide

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.

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

How to Change Your Name in South Carolina

Trying to figure out how to change your name in South Carolina? The MissNowMrs name change experts have fashioned this checklist to help you through the process!

New Spouse, New Name, New Journey: Embrace Your New Married Life.

With Personalized Name Change Services for Every Newlywed.

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The South Carolina Name Change Process

1. Social Security

Step one of your South Carolina name change is filing with the Social Security Administration. Complete the SS-5 form and file it with your certified marriage certificate, U.S. Passport or South Carolina driver’s license. Good news: there is no fee associated with filing for your married name at this agency!

Two weeks after your SS-5 form is processed, your new SS card will arrive in the mail. The card will show your married name, but your SSN will remain the same. One less thing to have to memorize!

How to Change Your Name in South Carolina

2. U.S. Passport

Filing for your new passport, is the second legal step of changing to your married name. There are three application forms to choose from, based on the current status of your passport. Complete the appropriate form 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 specific fee.

The State Department understands that many individuals file for a passport right before their honeymoons. So, if you have had your current passport for under 12 months, it is free to file for your new one in your new name!

3. The IRS

Now it’s time to file for a name change with the Internal Revenue Service. Filing the IRS 8822 is not mandatory, but it ensures that the IRS knows your married name. Why is this important? So they don’t hold your tax returns as they try to make the connection between your maiden and married names. We think it’s well worth filing this free form to have peace of mind!

4. South Carolina DMV

Your first state level name change is at the South Carolina DMV. Complete the SC 4057 form and head to you local DMV office. Be sure to bring your current South Carolina driver’s license, certified marriage certificate, and proof of residence if your address has recently changed.

Head to the office mid-month and mid-week to avoid office lines. Your new license in your new married name will be issued the same day you apply. The cost is only $10!

5. South Carolina Voter Registration Bureau

Updating your name on your South Carolina voter registration is a straight forward process. Complete the South Carolina Voter Registration Mail in Application. Then mail it to your county voter registration board with a photo copy of your driver’s license showing your new name.

6. ALL of Your Creditors and Accounts

Once you have updated your name with the federal and state agencies, it’s time to make the switch with every other entity. It’s smart to begin with your employer and banks. They typically require you to file a form with your certified marriage certificate in-person. Next up are your credit card companies, mortgage providers, loan providers, utility companies, professional license boards, and insurance providers. Usually they will update your name over the phone or via an online form. Finally, update your name will all of your memberships, associations, frequent flyer programs, and of course on your social media accounts and email addresses.

7. The Simple South Carolina Name Change Solution

Now that we’ve outlined how to change your name in South Carolina are you feeling completely stressed out? Many newlyweds worry about filing the wrong form, missing a supporting document, and just not having time to take care of everything. Don’t worry! Use the MissNowMrs name change app or online service to save 13+ hours. Our experts take care of all the details so you can focus on the fun of being a newlywed!

New Spouse, New Name, New Journey: Embrace Your New Married Life.

With Personalized Name Change Services for Every Newlywed.

Ready for a New Name? Order Now!
South Carolina Name Change Service

How to Change Your Name in Minnesota | 2020

How to change your name in Minnesota

Trying to understand how to change your name in Minnesota? Use our step by step checklist to save time and stress. It’s courtesy of the name change experts at MissNowMrs!

The Minnesota Name Change Process

1. The Social Security Administration

First on every newlywed’s list is changing the name on your Social Security card. To update your name, complete the SS-5 form and file it with your driver’s license/U.S. passport and your certified marriage certificate. There is no fee for your name change at this agency!

Two weeks after your form is processed, your new SS card will arrive in the mail. Your card will show your new married name, but your SSN remains the same.

2. The State Department

Then, it is time to change your name with the State Department. They have three different forms for you to complete, based on your passport status. The forms are the DS-11, the DS-82, and the DS-5504. After choosing and completing the appropriate form, file it with your current passport, your certified marriage certificate, two passport photos, and the listed processing fee.

U.S. passports typically take 5-6 weeks to be processed and issued. So, it is important to take any upcoming international travel into account before filing to change your name on your passport.

3. The Internal Revenue Service

Changing your name with the IRS is not as bad as one might think. Answer the 11 questions on the IRS 8822 form, and then mail it to the appropriate office with a photocopy of your marriage certificate. That’s it! This form is not required, but it makes sure that the IRS has your maiden and married names on file when they issue tax returns.

4. The Minnesota DMV

Next up is changing your name on your Minnesota driver’s license. Be sure to bring your current license, and your certified marriage certificate. Also, be prepared to have a new photo taken, as they are required before a name change can be processed by this agency.

Insider tips: Head to the DMV mid-month and mid-week for the shortest lines. Also, the Minnesota DMV only accepts cash or checks for their $12.75 processing fee.

5. Minnesota Voter Registration Bureau

Notify the Minnesota Voter Registration Bureau of your new name by filling out their form. Then, mail it to your the Secretary of State in St. Paul to make sure you are able to vote using your new married name.

6. All of Your Creditors

Now it it time to change your name with all of the companies and offices that currently use your maiden name. Start with your employer and banks. Most of these entities will require you to file a form in-person to update your name. Then, move on to your utilities, insurances, investment accounts, medical providers, professional license boards, mortgage companies, and loan providers. Most of them will allow you to change your name over the phone, or by completing a brief form. Finally, update your name on all of your memberships, periodicals, frequent flyer accounts, and social media.

7. The Minnesota Name Change Solution

Did learning how to change your name in Minnesota stress you out? Don’t worry! The MissNowMrs app and online name change service have been saving newlyweds 13+ hours of hassle since 2007. We’d love to help you transition to your new married name with minimal hassle.

Help Me Change My Name
Minnesota Name Change App and Service

How to Change Your Name in Missouri

How to change your name in Missouri
Ready for a New Name? Order Now!

Researching how to change your name in Missouri? You’ve come to the right place! The MissNowMrs name change experts have crafted a 7 step list to help you navigate the process in Missouri.

The Missouri Name Change Process

Before You Begin Your Name Change in Missouri

Before starting the name change process obtain several certified copies of your marriage certificate. You might wonder why there’s a need for multiple copies. The reason is straightforward: various entities and institutions might require an original certified copy, not just a mere photocopy, to validate the authenticity of the document. This is to ensure that the information presented is genuine and has not been tampered with.

To get these certified copies, you should approach the county recorder’s office (aka County Clerk’s office) where your marriage license was originally issued. It’s always a good idea to request more copies than you think you might need. This way, you’re prepared for any unexpected situations where a name change requires certified marriage certificate might be demanded. Having multiple copies on hand can expedite processes and reduce the waiting time that might arise if you find yourself needing to request additional copies later on.

Popular Missouri County Clerks Offices

St. Louis County
Jackson County
St. Charles County
Greene County
Clay County
Jefferson County
Boone County
Jasper County
Franklin County
Cass County
Platte County
Buchanan County

1. Social Security

In Missouri, if you’re looking to change your name, the first action on your checklist should be obtaining a new Social Security card. How do you go about this? Start by grabbing the SS-5 form. This form is your ticket to updating your name with the Social Security Administration. Once you have it, you’re faced with a choice: do you want to submit the form in person, or would you rather send it by mail? Either way works, so pick the method that’s most convenient for you.

Now, before you rush off to submit the form, make sure you’ve got all your documents in order. Along with the SS-5 form, you’ll need to include a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This document proves the legitimacy of your name change. Additionally, you’ll need to provide a form of identification. This could be your driver’s license or even your U.S. passport. And here’s some more good news: there’s no fee to pay when you’re filing for a name change with the Social Security Administration. That’s right, it’s completely free!

Once you’ve sent off your form and documents, all you need to do is wait. In about two weeks, you’ll receive a brand-new Social Security card in the mail. This card will proudly display your new married name. But here’s an essential detail to remember: while your name on the card changes, your Social Security Number remains the same. It’s a constant, ensuring continuity in your records. So, with a bit of paperwork and a short wait, you’ll be all set with your new name in the Show-Me State!

2. Internal Revenue Service

Changing your name with the IRS in Missouri is a straightforward task, and it’s one that can be accomplished with minimal fuss. If you’re a resident of the Show-Me State and you’ve recently undergone a name change, perhaps due to marriage, there’s a simple step you can take to ensure the IRS is up-to-date with your current details. All you need to do is fill out the IRS 8822 form. This form is user-friendly and doesn’t take much time to complete. Once you’ve filled it out, just pair it with a photocopy of your marriage certificate and send it off to the IRS office assigned to you.

Now, you might be wondering, “Is this step really necessary?” Technically, newlyweds aren’t mandated to submit this form. However, think about the future. When tax season rolls around, and you’re eagerly awaiting your tax returns, the last thing you want is a mix-up or delay because the IRS has your old name on file. Submitting the IRS 8822 form ensures that everything matches up, and your tax dealings proceed without a hitch.

In essence, taking this small step now can save you potential confusion and stress down the line. It’s a free form, so there’s no financial cost involved. And when you weigh the minimal effort against the significant peace of mind it offers, it’s clear that completing and submitting the IRS 8822 form is a wise move for any Missouri resident who has recently changed their name. In our view, it’s a small action that brings significant benefits, making it well worth the effort.

3. United States Passport Name Change

The third agency to file for you name change at is the State Department. The status of your passport determines whether you should complete the DS-11, DS-82 or the DS-5504 form. You can file the DS-11 and DS-82 by mail. But, the DS-5504 must be filed in-person at a valid Passport Agency.

When you file for your new passport, be sure to include your completed form with a certified marriage certificate, two 2×2 photos, and the appropriate processing fee. You will receive your new passport in the mail approximately 5-6 weeks after filing your form. So, be sure to plan your international travel accordingly!

Note that you can use the MissNowMrs app to get your properly formatted passport photos and forms

Name Change app

4. Missouri Driver’s License

To change your name on your Missouri Driver’s License, plan a visit to your local DMV office. It’s the place where all the magic happens. When you head there, make sure you have a few essential items with you. Your current Missouri driver’s license is a must-have. It’s the foundation on which your new license will be built. Next, you’ll need your certified marriage certificate. This document is crucial as it verifies the reason for your name change. And if you’ve recently moved, don’t forget to bring proof of your new residence. This ensures that all the details on your new license are up-to-date.

Now, here’s the exciting part. Once you’ve submitted all your documents and completed the necessary paperwork, you won’t have to wait days or weeks for your new license. The Missouri DMV will hand it over to you right then and there! That’s right, on the very same day you apply, you’ll walk out with a shiny new driver’s license showcasing your married name. It’s one of the unique perks of the DMV. While many government offices might have you waiting for your new ID to arrive in the mail, the DMV ensures you leave with it in hand.

5. Missouri Voter Registration Name Change

It is important to change your name on your voter registration. Complete the Missouri Voter Registration Application. Then, mail it to the appropriate Board of Elections Office. You can find the correct address for your county here. This ensures that you will be able to vote in your new married name.

6. All Non-Government Entities

Once you have your new name on all of your forms of ID, it’s time to notify your creditors. Start with your employer, banks, and insurance providers. Most of them will require you to file a form in-person to change your name. Then, move on to your credit card providers, insurance providers, utilities, professional license boards, medical providers, and loan providers. Many of these entities will allow you to change your name by phone or by using an online form. Finally, update your name with all of your memberships, periodicals, and on social media!

7. Missouri Name Change Made Easy

Now that you’re clear on how to change your name in Missouri, do you wish there was an easier way? Great news! The MissNowMrs app or online name change service can save you 13 hours on your name change. Let the experts handle the process, so you can focus on the fun of being a newlywed!

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Missouri Name Change App and Service

These steps work for all residents of Missouri, including residents of Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, Columbia, Independence, Lee’s Summit, O’Fallon, St. Joseph, St. Charles, St. Peters, Blue Springs, and Joplin.