How to Change Your Name
Getting married changes a lot of things — your daily routines, your grocery list, your Netflix suggestions — and for many, even your name. Suddenly, you’re not just deciding what to call each other in private, but what the rest of the world will call you, too.
If you’ve ever wondered how something as sentimental as saying “I do” can lead to so many government forms, you’re not alone.
So take a deep breath, gather your documents, and remember: love may have brought you here — but persistence and a few good photocopies will get you across the finish line.
What are the Stats?
Tradition is a major factor in deciding who changes their name but it’s not the only factor. Many people simply want a sense of unity, continuity, or a name that feels like us instead of me. However, others might decide to keep or hyphenate based on their career tenure, who they are known as, or ties to particular family name.
Stats according to Pew Research in 2023
Steps to Changing Your Name
1) Social Security Administration
Start with the Social Security Administration (SSA) — the foundation for all other updates. This ensures your new name properly links to your tax and benefit records.
Bring:
- Completed Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card)
- Certified copy of your marriage certificate
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (passport or birth certificate)
A valid U.S. passport can satisfy both identity and citizenship requirements.
2) Visit the Department of Motor Vehicles
Once your Social Security information is updated, you’ll need to visit your local DMV to update your driver’s license or state identification card.
Bring:
- Updated Social Security card
- Certified marriage certificate
- Previous driver’s license
Many states require this update within 60 days of your legal name change, though timelines can vary. Always verify local rules before standing in line (or better yet, before discovering you brought the wrong form).
3) Update Your Passport
A passport is your global identity, and it, too, must match your new name. The process depends on how long you’ve had your current passport.
Submit:
- Completed Form DS-5504 (Application for a U.S. Passport)
- Most recent passport
- Certified marriage certificate
- Passport photo
Requirements differ slightly depending on whether your passport was issued less than or more than one year ago, so double-check the current U.S. Department of State guidelines before mailing your application.
4) Notify Financial Institutions
Banks, credit card companies, and investment custodians may not care about your love story, but they definitely care about your legal name. Each institution sets its own requirements, but they usually need official proof.
Commonly Required:
- Updated Social Security card
- Certified marriage certificate
- Updated driver’s license
Contact each financial institution individually, as procedures vary widely — and don’t forget to update online banking profiles to avoid confusion during future transactions.
5) Update Your Employer Records
Notify your Human Resources (HR) department so that payroll, tax withholdings, and benefit plans all reflect your new name.
Bring:
- Updated Social Security card
- Certified marriage certificate
Some employers also have internal name-change forms or may require you to re-enroll in benefit programs under your new name.
6) Update Your Social Media and Online Presence
This one’s less official but arguably more visible. Most platforms make it simple to update your display name, and many still allow users to find you under your maiden name. Think of it as your digital alias — a bridge between your past and present identity.