Monday, April 9, 2012

Changing Your Name After The Wedding

If you will take your new husband’s last name or legally abbreviate your married name, there will be several documents that require a name change. Here’s a breakdown of what to change and when.

Wait to Change.

There is no doubt you will be excited to begin using your married name, but it is a good idea not to make the name change until you return from your honeymoon. Make all honeymoon travel arrangements in your maiden name because it may take several weeks to change your drivers license, passport and credit cards. Having two different names can make travel more difficult.

Before the wedding

  • Let your employer know to change your email and business cards.
  • Practice using your new name including the signature. It will make it more fluent when you do make the change.

After the wedding

  • Most changes can not be completed until you receive the fully executed marriage license by mail.
  • Change your name on any bank accounts. Once the change is complete, notify your payroll department of your new name so the deposit account information matches.
  • Request a new social security card by taking a copy of your marriage license to the social security office. You can speed up the process if you download a form from the Social Security website.
  • Contact the US State Department to request the name change to your US Passport.
  • You will need your marriage certificate to change the name on your driver’s license.
  • Many utilities, credit card issuers and insurance companies can change your name by phone. Others will require a copy of your marriage certificate and a personal letter requesting the change. This will vary by company.
  • Spread the word by making the change to your twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and other social media sites.
  • Make the change with your health insurance provider and doctor’s office.
  • If you have a will or medical proxy, review the document for necessary changes in beneficiary or advocate.

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