Keeping up with the Joneses: How to change your name after marriage

Amanda Moutinho

You just married the love of your life, and you’re dreaming white picket fences and monogrammed bath towels. But unfortunately just because your washcloth says “The Joneses,” doesn’t mean you’re done yet.

Changing your name can be stressful, time consuming, and involve lots of paperwork. But with a plan and some perseverance, you can get through it.

The first step is to put your new full name on your marriage certificate. If you forget this step, you have to go down a more complex process of getting a name change for other reasons. Contact the circuit court where you got your marriage license to obtain multiple certified copies of your marriage certificate.

Next, to get your new name on the books, you need to contact the Social Security Administration, either in person or online. If you go in person, you must have a completed SS-5 application, which you can find on SocialSecurity.gov; your marriage certificate, proof of identity (driver’s license, ID card, or passport), and proof of your citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or citizenship certificate). If you mail in your paperwork, remember: they must be the original documents or certified copies, which they will mail back. You should receive your new card within 10 days of the date on your receipt.

After getting your new social security card, head over to everyone’s favorite hot spot: the Department of Motor Vehicles. Bring your new social security card, your marriage certificate, proof of identity, proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, rent, or mortgage document), and $21.

To get a new passport, you’ll have to send in your current one. If it’s been less than one year since your last passport was issued, you won’t have to pay any processing fees if you submit Form DS-5504 (found at Travel-State.gov) by mail with your current passport, a passport-style photo, and a copy of your marriage certificate. If longer than one year, submit Form DS-82, your current passport, passport-style photo, certified copy of marriage certificate, and all applicable fees.

The last step is to shout your name from the rooftops and call everyone you know. Make a list of every institution that has your name, do some finger exercises, and get ready to dial. Some places to include: bank accounts, credit cards, leases or mortgages, vehicle title, voter registration, medical offices, post office boxes, passport, employers/payroll, utilities, and insurance. Don’t forget your Facebook, your barista, your butcher, your baker, and your vegan cupcake maker.

Thankfully, there are some options that can save you time. The DMV and other companies offer packages where you can pay a flat fee and fill out a lot less paperwork. The package includes a bundle of vital forms such as driver’s license, vehicle title, IRS, voter registration, passport, and notification for your bank, credit card, and insurance company. Go to DMV.org to find out more.

After your paperwork-induced hand cramps subside, cuddle up with your boo and start planning that Christmas card from “The Joneses.”