Changing your Name after Getting Married

Step 1)  Decide exactly how you want your name to appear everywhere:

• Spouse’s last name (most common)
• Hyphenated last name
• Two last names (depending on state/agency rules)
• Keep maiden name (optional—no change required)

Write it down in one consistent format (spacing, hyphen, middle name vs. maiden name as middle). Consistency prevents delays later.

Step 2) Order certified copies of your marriage certificate

• Request certified copies from the office that issued your marriage record (often the county or state vital records office).
  Get multiple copies (many people find 3–5 helpful) because some places require an original certified copy and may not accept photocopies.

Step 3) Update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) first

This is the most important “first stop” because many systems verify your identity through SSA records.

What to do

• Use SSA’s “Change name” path to see whether you can start online or if you need an appointment.
• If you can’t complete it online, fill out Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card).
• Submit SSA’s required documents showing:
• Your identity, and
• Your legal name change (typically your certified marriage certificate).
• SSA updates your record and mails your replacement card after the change is processed.

Tip: Make sure your tax-filing name matches SSA (this matters later).

Step 4) Update your driver’s license/state ID with your state motor vehicle office (DMV/Secretary of State)
After SSA is updated, go to your state’s motor vehicle agency to change the name on your driver’s license or state ID. USA.gov lists the DMV/state motor vehicle office as one of the key agencies to notify.

Bring what most DMVs commonly ask for (requirements vary):

• Certified marriage certificate
• Your current driver’s license/state ID
• Proof of SSN (or SSA confirmation, if your state requests it)
• Proof of address (if required by your state)

Step 5) Update your U.S. passport (if you have one)

If the name you’re using is different from what’s on your passport, the State Department requires an original or certified name-change document (such as a marriage certificate).

Choose the correct path:

If you’re eligible to renew: Use Form DS-82 and include your passport, a passport photo, fees, and your certified marriage certificate.

The State Department notes you must mail DS-82 submissions using USPS because private couriers can’t deliver to certain PO Box addresses.

If you’re not eligible to renew by mail: Apply in person with Form DS-11 and bring citizenship evidence, ID, and your certified marriage certificate (name-change document).

Step 6) Update your name for taxes and payroll (so everything matches)

• The IRS recommends reporting your new name to SSA as soon as possible because the name on your tax return must match SSA records or it can delay processing/refunds.
• You can file “married filing jointly” without changing your name, but if you use your married name on the return before updating SSA, it can cause delays.

Do this next:

• Tell your employer/HR and update payroll so your W-2 matches your SSA name.
• Update your IRS/tax profile through correct filing (and keep the name consistent).

Step 7) Update banks, credit cards, and other financial accounts

Call or visit each institution and ask their exact requirements. Commonly requested items:

• Updated driver’s license/state ID
• Certified marriage certificate

Update:

• Checking/savings accounts, credit cards
• Loans/mortgage, auto loan
• Investment accounts/retirement accounts
• PayPal/Venmo and payment apps (if they require legal name matching)

Step 8) Update insurance and benefits

Update the name on:

• Health, dental, vision insurance (and any employer benefits)
• Auto and home/renters insurance
• Life insurance beneficiaries and policies

Step 9) Update the rest of your life (quick checklist)

Work through this list and knock them out in batches:

• Doctor/dentist offices, pharmacy profiles
• Utility bills, lease/mortgage paperwork
• Voter registration (state process)
• Car title/registration (state process)
• Professional licenses/certifications (if applicable)
• Loyalty programs (airlines/hotels), especially if you travel—your ticket name should match your ID/passport

Step 10) Keep a simple “name change folder” until everything is done

Include:

• A couple certified marriage certificates (store safely)
• A scan/photo of your updated ID(s)
• Confirmation letters/emails from major changes
• A checklist of accounts you’ve updated (and the date)