• Skip to main content

MissNowMrs

Online Married Name Change Service + App

  • Our Story
  • Reviews
  • FAQ
  • Name Change FAQ
  • Gift Cards
  • Name Change Advice
  • How It Works
  • Log in
You are here: Home / Archives for Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds

Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds

name change advice

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

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

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

Name Change After Marriage 8 Step Checklist and Guide for 2023

Name Change After Marriage Checklist

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

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

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

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

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

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

Avoid These Mistakes When Changing To Your Married Name

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

Gather Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate

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

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

File for Your New Social Security Card

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

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

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

Evidence of Age:

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

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

Proof of your identity:

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

Evidence of U.S. Citizenship:

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

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

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

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

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

Change your Voter Registration Information

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

File for your new Passport

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

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

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

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

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

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

Change your name with the US Postal Service (USPS)

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

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

Update Bank Accounts, Credit Cards, and Mortgage

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

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

Update Professional Organizations, Utilities, and Vendors

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

To: [Organization Name]
    [Organization Address]

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

Account: [Account ID]

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

2020 Article

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

How to Change Your Name in Kansas

How to Change Your Name in Kansas
Order Your Personalized Name Change Kit

Deciding when and how to change your name in Kansas? We’ve helped 500,000+ newlyweds transition to Mrs., and thought you could use a step-by-step guide!

The Kansas Name Change Process

1. Social Security

The first step in your Kansas name change is updating your name with the Social Security Administration. To accomplish that, you will need to complete the SS-5 form and file it with your certified marriage certificate and either your Kansas driver’s license or your U.S. passport.

Good news! It is free to change your name with this office. Roughly two weeks after you file, your new SS card will arrive in the mail. It will show your new married name, but your SSN will remain the same

2. IRS

No one likes to deal with the IRS, unless it’s regarding tax returns. We highly recommend filing the IRS 8822 form to ensure that this office has your maiden and married names on file when tax season arrives.

Simply answer the IRS 8822’s eleven questions and mail the signed form along with a photocopy of your marriage certificate. There’s no fee associate, and you can have peace of mind regarding your new name zero drama around your tax returns.

3. Your U.S. Passport

Step number three is changing your name with the State Department. The status of your current passport determines if you should complete the DS-11, DS-82 or the DS-5504 form. You have the option to file the DS-11 and DS-82 by mail. But, the DS-5504 must be filed at the Passport Agency in person.

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

4. Kansas Driver’s License

The Kansas DMV has a straightforward process for name change. You will need to the office in person and bring your current Kansas license, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, proof of residence if you have moved, and $16 for the processing fee.

Please note that the best times to go to the DMV are mid month and mid week to avoid long lines. Also, your new Kansas license will be issued the same day you apply!

5. Kansas Voter Registration

Next up is changing your name on your voter registration. Complete the brief Kansas Voter Registration application and mail it to your county election officer with a photo copy of your new driver’s license, utility bill, or paycheck in your new married name. Once that’s done you have the ability vote with your new married name!

6. All Other Companies/Entities/Accounts

Now it’s time to notify every non government agency about your new married name. Start by changing your name with your employer and your banking institutes. Typically they will request you to file a form in-person and show them your certified marriage certificate (and sometimes your new SS card.)

Then update your name with your mortgage providers, loan providers, credit card companies, utilities, and professional license boards. Most of them will update your name over the phone, or via an online form. Finally, begin the process of changing your name with all of your accounts, memberships, periodicals, frequent flyer programs, an on social media. Again, each company varies, but most will allow you to login and make the change on your own.

7. Kansas Name Change Made Easy

Now that you know how to change your name in Kansas on your own, are you wishing there was a less involved way? Use the MissNowMrs name change app or online service to save 13 hours on your name change. Why waste precious newlywed time standing in long office lines?!

Ready for a New Name? Order Now!
Kansas Name Change Service

Written by · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds · Tagged: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds

How to Change Your Name in South Carolina

How to Change Your Name in South Carolina
Order with Ease: We’re Here Every Step of the Way!

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!

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!

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!

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

Written by · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds · Tagged: Married Name Change, name change afer marriage, Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds

How to Change Your Name In Wisconsin

Congratulations on your union in the enchanting landscapes of Wisconsin! Whether your vows were exchanged under the tranquil shadows of Door County or amidst the vibrant heartbeat of Milwaukee, transitioning to your new name in Wisconsin is a journey that can take some time. Start this beautiful journey by securing a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the respective county clerk where your union was solemnized. Then, with warmth and anticipation, visit the Social Security Administration to reflect your new identity on your Social Security card. Your next sweet step is to the Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles to embrace your new name on your driver’s license. And, with a gentle reminder, don’t forget to share your new identity with banks, credit card companies, and other significant entities. For more guidance and a wealth of information on embracing your new name, www.missnowmrs.com is here to support you. Here’s to embracing new beginnings and savoring every moment in the charming embrace of Wisconsin! Warm wishes on this delightful journey!

Order Now and Let Us Care for Your Name Change Needs!
How to Change your name in Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Name Change Process

The Social Security Administration

The beginning of your name change project starts with the Social Security Administration. You will need to file the SS-5 form along with your certified marriage certificate and either your Wisconsin driver’s license or your U.S. passport. Fortunately, this office does not charge a processing fee for name change!

Two to three weeks after your form is filed, your new SS card will arrive in the mail. The card will reflect your new married name, but your SSN will stay the same. One less thing to memorize!

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.

The Internal Revenue Service

Filing the IRS 8822 form is a very smart (but not required) idea. This form is free to file, and guarantees the IRS has your married name on file when they issue tax returns. Simply fill out the form, add a photocopy of your marriage certificate, and pop it in the mail. Then check the Internal Revenue Service off your list!

The Wisconsin DMV

To change your name with the Wisconsin DMV, you will need to wait for your new SS card in your new name to be issued. Once you have that, you can complete the Wisconsin license application form and head to the DMV office. Be sure to bring your current license, certified marriage certificate, two proofs of residence from the last 90 days. Your new license will be issued the same day you apply!

Heads up: If you are exchanging an out of state license, you will need to bring your U.S. passport or certified birth certificate to receive a Wisconsin license.

The Wisconsin Voter Bureau

Updating your name on your voter registration is the last on your list of government agencies. Complete the Wisconsin Voter Registration Application and mail it along with a photocopy of your new driver’s license to your municipal clerk.

Every Other Entity

As government filings end, creditor name change notifications begin. It is smart to start your name change with your banks and your employer. Both tend to want you to file in-person with either your new SS card or a marriage certificate. Next, update your name with your professional license boards, investment accounts, credit cards, mortgage providers, loan providers, medical providers, and insurance providers. Most of these companies will change your name over the phone or via a brief update form. The last step is to update your name on all of your memberships, subscriptions, and social media accounts.

The Wisconsin Name Change Solution

Stunned by how to change your name in Wisconsin? Save 13 hours on your name change using the MissNowMrs app or online service. No need to worry about filing the wrong form or missing a supporting document when you let MissNowMrs change your name!

Order with Ease: We’re Here Every Step of the Way!
Wisconsin Name Change Service

Written by · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds · Tagged: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds

How to Change Your Name in Connecticut

How to change your name in Connecticut
Help Me Change My Name

Ready to discover how to change your name in Connecticut? The MissNowMrs experts made this step by step checklist to help you navigate towards your married name in Connecticut with minimal stress!

The Connecticut Name Change Process

1. Social Security

The Social Security Administration is the first government office to notify of your married name. Download and complete the SS-5 form. Then, file it with your certified marriage certificate and your Connecticut driver’s license or U.S. passport. There is not a fee to update your name with this agency.

Approximately two weeks after your paperwork is processed your new SS card will arrive in the mail. Your name will have changed on the card, but your SSN will stay the same.

2. Internal Revenue Service

Next up is updating your name with the IRS. Filing the IRS 8822 form is not required. However, this form makes sure the IRS knows of your married name when tax returns are issued. We think it’s totally worth the stamp to mail in the 8822 and a photo copy of your marriage certificate!

3. State Department

Step number three is filing for you name change at the State Department. Your passport status determines if 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 at a valid Passport Agency in-person.

When filing for your new passport, be sure to include the correct form with a certified marriage certificate, two 2×2 photos, and the corresponding processing fee. Your new passport will arrive in the mail approximately 5-6 weeks after filing your form. So, plan your international travel with that gap in mind!

4. Connecticut Driver’s License

To update your name on your Connecticut driver’s license, you should fill out the E-78 Change of Name Request Form and take it to your local DMV. Be sure to bring your current driver’s license, a certified marriage certificate, and proof of residence if your address has changed.

The best time to visit the Connecticut DMV are mid-day and mid-week. These are the best times to avoid long office lines. By having your form completed and knowing what supporting documents to bring, you ensure that you’ll walk out with your new license the same day!

5. Connecticut Voter Registration

Filing to change your name on your Connecticut voter registration is a straight forward process. Simply complete the Connecticut mail-in voter registration form and mail it to your town Registrar of Voters. Please don’t skip this filing, as it ensures your ability to vote under your married name.

6. All Creditors

Now that your new married name is on file with the federal and state government agencies, it is time to change your name with your creditors. Begin with your employer and banks. Typically, they will require you to file a form in-person to update your name in their systems. Then, move on to notifying your professional license boards, credit cards, investment accounts, insurance providers, mortgage providers, loan providers, professional license boards, and utility companies. Most of these companies will update your name over the phone or after you complete a brief form. Finally, update all of your memberships, subscriptions, and social media accounts with your new name.

7. The Solution to Connecticut Name Change

Is our checklist for how to change your name in Connecticut making you feel more stressed than less? You don’t have to change your name on your own. Use the MissNowMrs name change app or online service to save 13 hours. Let the experts take care of the heaving lifting for you.

Help Me Change My Name
Connecticut Name Change Service

Written by · Categorized: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds · Tagged: Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds

  • Go to page 1
  • Go to page 2
  • Go to page 3
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Go to page 26
  • Go to Next Page »
  • Top 5 Honeymoon Travel Tips For Brides
  • Name Change Advice
  • How To Change Your Name After Marriage
  • Name Change After Marriage
  • State Married Name Change Information
  • Privacy Policy
MissNowMrs Instagram MissNowMrs Facebook MissNowMrs Pinterest MissNowMrs YouTube
Have a name change question? Call or text us at 800.301.9296 or email us at support@missnowmrs.com
Copyright 2023