Image by Henry Tieu photography. Keep scrolling to see tips on how to legally change your last name after marriage
Wedding planning is already stressful because it is. Between picking out the right venue and selecting the suitable attire to point out off your personalities, there are such a lot of moving parts to planning your big day. And it doesn’t just stop there. After tying the knot, you might have to think concerning the honeymoon and the lengthy technique of changing your last name. If you might have no idea where to start, don’t fret. Easy Name Change is here to make the experience quick and painless so you’ll be able to spend more time sipping on a pina colada in your tropical vacation and fewer time stressing out.
How Easy Name Change Got here To Be
With 78% of couples married in 2022 aspiring to change their last name, it’s no wonder that Easy Name Change was created. Launched in 2008, the corporate was founded to assist make the name change process as easy as possible. All you might have to do is use considered one of their kits, sign the pre-filled forms, and ship them off.
How To Legally Change Your Last Name After Marriage
Get Your Marriage License
With the intention to change your last name, you must get your marriage license (certificate). The very best option to accomplish that is to go to your local county clerk’s office with the required documents. This may include your birth certificate, license, or passport. Before heading down there, we highly recommend looking up what is required, as every state is different. In actual fact, in some states, you might even need a witness, and the last item you need to do is show up empty-handed.
Change Your Social Security Card
The subsequent step within the name-changing process is getting a latest social security card. Don’t fret. Your social security number stays the identical, so that you don’t should stress about memorizing a latest one. You’ll be able to undergo this process online by visiting the Social Security Administration website and requesting a latest card.
You’ll fill out a few forms that you simply’ll then mail in along along with your current social security card, proof of name change (i.e., a duplicate of your marriage license), proof of citizenship, and a photograph ID. Once the documents are received, you need to receive your latest card inside ten days or so.
While that is a neater option, we recommend that you simply accomplish that in person so as to keep your original vital documents in your possession so that you don’t run the danger of them getting lost within the mail.
Change Your Driver’s License
Now that you simply’ve got your marriage license and latest social security card, it’s time to let Easy Name Change help. While all DMVs require you to go to a branch in person, Easy Name Change makes it easier by providing you with the vital paperwork before you even step foot inside. Simply start checking off which places you must notify of your latest married name from their list of countless organizations (with the whole lot from the SSA and DMV to your bank and medical insurance firms) and receive the vital paperwork.
They provide two different kit options–one print-at-home kit and one other printed and posted kit that features all the paperwork you would like, in addition to envelopes, folders, a customized checklist, and more.
Regardless of in case you use a reputation change kit or not, you’ll still have to attend your state DMV and most banks in person. Staff wish to see your original identification, witness your signature, and should take a photograph.
When Should I Change My Last Name?
Name changing is a time-sensitive process that ought to happen when you receive your marriage certificate. Though it varies by state and there isn’t any technical “deadline,” waiting longer might be costly and time-consuming. Ideally, that is best done inside a month or two of the marriage since it helps you prove your identity once the switch is made. If your chosen married name will not be in your marriage certificate, you’ll be able to pick from any of the standard married name options.
Ready To Change Your Name?
For those who’re able to start and take in your latest last name, head over to Easy Name Change and allow them to guide you thru the method with minimal effort in your part! And with the code JUNEBUG15, you’ll be able to get 15% off any kit now through June. So what are you waiting for?
Image by Laura Powers Photography
