How Do You Legally Change Your Last Name After Getting Married?

If you are like most brides, you have probably taken the plunge and decided to use your partner’s name. It is the most natural decision for most women, and of course, it is a tradition that has been around for ages. Well, after the hectic wedding process is over, you have to think about the name change seriously. Remember your name is the essential legal identification and if you make any changes, it has to go through a legal process. How do you go about changing name after marriage? It is a question most couples don’t consider until after the wedding. Your marriage certificate might have your new name but this doesn’t make the process legal.

This article highlights the steps you need to take to legalize the name change after marriage. It is a tedious process but luckily, you will also learn about an innovative solution that removes all the hassle from a legal name change.

1. Use the New Name on the Marriage Certificate
When applying for a marriage license, remember to use the desired name. A marriage license gives the go-ahead for the ceremony but a marriage certificate comes after the solemnization of the union. The name used in the marriage license finally reflects on the marriage certificate.
When collecting the marriage certificate, make sure you get certified copies to use when applying for new identification documents. You will also need these copies when sending out notifications about the name change to concerned parties.

2. Apply For a New Social Security Card (SSD)
The social security card is the most crucial identification document and after a legal name change, you need to apply for a new one. One the Social Security Administration's website, download and fill the application for a new card. You will need a copy of your marriage certificate and identification documents including your old SSD, a copy of your birth certificate and your driver’s license. It takes around ten business days for a new SSD.

3. Change Your Driver’s License
Your driver’s license is the next most crucial identification document that needs a change after your marriage. For this, you will have to visit the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. You need any identification documents such as your new social security card, your old DL and a certified copy of the marriage certificate.

4. Change Your Name Elsewhere
Now that you have been using your old name in all your transactions, you have to notify every concerned party about the changes. Some of the most crucial people and institutions that need to know about the name change include:

• Your bank
• Creditors and debtors
• Mortgage company employer
• Employers/payroll
• Post office
• Electric and other utility companies
• Voter registration office
• Schools and alumni associations
• Credit card companies
• Insurance companies (auto, home, life)

When sending name change notifications, make sure you attach a copy of the marriage certificate for the concerned party to take the matter seriously. Remember a marriage certificate is a legal document and anyone who receives the name change notification will have to comply.

A Convenient Alternative in the Name Change Process 

Truth be told, the traditional name change process is tedious, time-consuming and frustrating. You have to fill out many documents and deal with queues at crowded government offices. Most couples avoid the name change process due to fears of the bureaucratic red tape but there is a now a solution. An online name change company removes the hassle from the whole process.

These companies offer tailored name change services and provide all the information you need, updated documents you require and even help to fill out the forms. A tailored name change service toolkit enables you to complete the process faster and without any hurdles. You don’t have to hop from one office to the other as all the documents are on one platform.

Still worried about changing name after marriage? Now you know the two approaches to the important process. Go online and enjoy a hassle-free name change.