How to Change Your Name

I like to make sure that my brides are prepared for everything. One thing a lot of girls don't know how to begin is the process of changing your name. This is the information that I give my brides to help them along in the process:

Before the wedding:

1. Make arrangements with your job so that your email and business cards will be updated upon your return to work.

2. Tell your bridesmaids & family what your plans are so that they may pass along the information to any planning on giving you a personalized gift.

3. Make your honeymoon reservations using your MAIDEN name. You will not be able to change your driver’s license or passport until you return, so your tickets need to match your travel documents.

After the wedding:

1. Get a new social security card.

a. Once you have your marriage license (which may take a couple of weeks), download the form from the social security website.

b. Take this completed form to the Social Security offices along with your marriage license and your ID to get a new card.

2. Get a new driver’s license.

a. Most DMV offices will change your driver’s license if you present a copy of your marriage license. Others require you to also present your new social security card.

b. Check with your local DMV for their requirements.

3. Change the paperwork at your office.

a. Visit your office’s HR or finance department again with your new social security card to change the name on all of your financial information (i.e. payroll & tax deductions)

b. For everyone else, including: the bank, insurance policies, credit cards, utility companies, and membership organizations, type up a letter with all of your information on it. This letter should contain instructions to change your name along with your name, address, new name, account number, and possibly your social security number. Include with the letter a copy of your marriage license.

4. Don’t forget to order new checks & credit cards.