Changing Your Last Name Pre-Wedding: What You Need To Know

Changing your name before a wedding is a complex process that varies depending on where you live. In the US, for example, you can only change your name before the wedding by listing your new name on your marriage license. This is only possible if you are changing your middle or last name to your spouse's name or a combination of both your names. If you want to change your name to something else, you will need to go through a legal name change process. This typically involves filing a petition with your local court and may include providing fingerprints for a background check and paying an application fee.

Marriage license and certificate

A marriage license is a permit to get married in a particular location and a legal document for public records stating that you and your partner are free and eligible to marry each other. A marriage certificate, on the other hand, is a certified copy of the marriage registration secured after the wedding. It is a document that certifies that a couple is legally married and serves as proof of marriage.

File for Your Marriage Certificate:

Amidst all of the chaos and magic of your wedding day, don't forget to obtain the proper signatures on your marriage license. The marriage license provides authorization for the couple to legally wed, while the marriage certificate certifies that the couple is legally married. It is typically the responsibility of your officiant to file for the marriage certificate, but this varies from state to state. It's recommended to do this as soon as possible, preferably on the first business day following the ceremony.

Obtain Certified Copies:

On almost every document where you'll need to officially change your last name, you'll need to show proof of your marriage. That's why having a certified copy of your marriage certificate is crucial. While the original version will likely stay on file with the county you married in, you can purchase government-issued duplicate copies from the county clerk's office. It is recommended to obtain at least three copies: one to keep safe and two for entities that need proof of your marital status and name change.

Update Your Social Security Card:

Your Social Security number is used for identification and tax purposes, so this is the first place you'll need to update with your new last name. You can apply for a new Social Security card by mail or in person. If applying in person, you can expedite the process by filling out the application beforehand. There is no charge for updating your Social Security card, but you'll need to bring the following documents to your appointment:

• Proof of name change: A certified copy of your marriage certificate.
• Proof of citizenship: A valid passport, birth certificate, or certified copy of your birth certificate.
• Valid photo identification: Driver's license, unexpired passport, military ID, or state-issued ID card.
• Your current Social Security card: You will keep the same number after your card is replaced.

Get a New Driver's License or ID:

After updating your Social Security card, the next step is to change your name on the form of ID you use most in everyday life, usually your driver's license. Wait at least 24 hours after changing your name with Social Security to allow federal systems to update before visiting the DMV. Most states consider a name change to be part of the renewal process, so fill out the license renewal paperwork in advance to save time. Bring the following with you:

• Your new Social Security card or receipt from the Social Security office.
• Proof of address (if required in your state).
• A certified copy of your marriage certificate, which will be returned to you.
• Multiple options for payment, as some offices don't accept credit cards.

Update Your Passport:

If you're heading out on an international honeymoon soon after your wedding, it's best to wait until you return home to change your name on your passport. The ID you travel with must match your boarding pass. A name change on a passport is considered a correction and must be applied for by mail. Use the U.S. Department of State's interactive tool to select the proper form for your circumstances, then mail the following to the National Passport Processing Center:

• Completed DS-5504 or DS-82 form.
• A certified copy of your marriage certificate.
• Your current passport.
• A check for the fees, if necessary.

Update Global Entry and TSA PreCheck:

Your new passport will have a new number, which you'll need to provide to the Global Entry offices. Unfortunately, this update cannot be done online, and you'll need to visit a local Global Entry Enrollment Center. After your visit, you'll retain your Global Entry number, which will now be linked to your new passport. If you have TSA PreCheck through Global Entry, your membership will be automatically updated. If you only have TSA PreCheck, call their customer service line to begin the name change process.

Update Your Bank Account:

Each bank will handle this process differently. Some will ask for an in-person appointment, while others may allow you to mail or upload documents. They will all require legal proof of your name change, such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate, your new Social Security card, and your new driver's license or state-issued ID. Be sure to order a new debit card and checkbook with your new last name.

Change Your Name on Your Credit Cards:

Different credit card companies will have different processes for updating your new last name, and most will likely request supporting documentation confirming the legal name change. Call the customer service number on the back of each of your credit cards to determine the next steps.

Update Your Insurance:

To avoid any unintentional lapses in coverage, update all of your insurance policies (home, health, auto, etc.) with your new last name as soon as possible. Different providers will have different procedures, but they will likely ask to see your updated ID and/or a certified copy of your marriage certificate to validate the claim. Since marriage is considered a "major life event," you can be placed on your spouse's health insurance or vice versa without waiting for an open enrollment period. Ensure your name has been legally changed with Social Security and on your driver's license or state-issued ID before combining coverage.

Update Major Independent Payments:

This includes your mortgage, utility companies (gas, electric, water), car payments, student loans, etc. Most of these updates can be made under your account information in an online portal.

Update Your Work HR:

Notify your human resources department of your name change so they can update your payroll and employer-sponsored benefits programs, such as health insurance and 401(k). This may also include updating your email address to reflect your new last name.

Make the Announcement Professionally:

If email is your main source of communication at work, send an email from your updated address to all of your regular contacts. Adjust your email signature temporarily to include your first name, new last name, and your old last name in parentheses. This will help your contacts get used to your new last name.

Update Social Media Channels:

Take a similar approach to the name line on

Updating your Social Security card

Documents and Identification

First, you'll need to gather the necessary documents and identification. This includes:

• Proof of your name change, such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
• Proof of citizenship, like a valid passport, birth certificate, or a certified copy of your birth certificate.
• A valid photo ID, including a driver's license, unexpired passport, military ID, or state-issued ID card.
• Your current Social Security card.

It's important to note that you must provide original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies, notarized copies, or digital scans are generally not accepted.

Application Process

You can apply for a new Social Security card by mail or in person. To find your nearest Social Security office, visit the Social Security Administration website. If you plan to apply in person, you can save time by filling out the application (Form SS-5) in advance. There is no fee for updating your Social Security card.

Timing and Delivery

After submitting your application and supporting documents, you should receive your new Social Security card within 10 business days. Your Social Security number will remain the same, only your name will be updated.

Impact on Other Documents

Changing your name on your Social Security card is just the first step. You will also need to update other important documents, such as your driver's license, passport, bank accounts, credit cards, insurance policies, and more. It is recommended to wait at least 24 hours after changing your name with Social Security before updating your driver's license to ensure that federal systems have enough time to reflect the change.

Additional Considerations

If you are not a U.S. citizen but are becoming a permanent resident after your wedding, you will need additional documentation. Refer to the Social Security Administration website for more information on the required documents.

Getting a new driver's license

In most places, you cannot change your last name before the wedding. However, you can list your new name on your marriage license application, and then, once you're married, you can use your marriage certificate to change your name on your driver's license. Here is a step-by-step guide to getting a new driver's license with your new name:

Step 1: File for Your Marriage Certificate

The first step is to obtain the proper signatures on your marriage license, allowing you to obtain your marriage certificate. This is usually the responsibility of your officiant, but you may opt to file for the certificate yourself. It's best to do this as soon as possible after your wedding.

Step 2: Obtain Certified Copies

On almost every document where you'll need to change your name, you'll need to show proof of your marriage. That's why having a certified copy of your marriage certificate is so important. You can purchase these through the county clerk's office where you file your marriage certificate. It's recommended to get at least three copies.

Step 3: Update Your Social Security Card

Your Social Security number is used for identification and tax purposes, so this is the first place you'll need to update with your new name. You can apply for a new Social Security card by mail or in person. There is no charge for this, but you'll need to bring the following documents:

• Proof of name change (a certified copy of your marriage certificate)
• Proof of citizenship (a valid passport, birth certificate, or certified copy of your birth certificate)
• Valid photo identification (driver's license, unexpired passport, military ID, or state-issued ID card)
• Your current Social Security card (you'll keep the same number)

Step 4: Get a New Driver's License

After updating your Social Security card, you can change your name on your driver's license. Wait at least 24 hours after changing your name with Social Security to allow federal systems to update. Changing your name on your driver's license must be done in person, so be sure to visit your local DMV and bring the following:

• Your new Social Security card or receipt from the Social Security office
• Proof of address (a bank statement, bill, insurance document, mortgage document, or lease, if required in your state)
• A certified copy of your marriage certificate (which will be returned to you)
• Multiple options for payment (cash, check, or credit card)

Additional Steps:

In addition to the steps above, you may also need to update your passport, bank accounts, credit cards, insurance policies, and various other records and accounts. Each of these processes may vary, but they will generally require legal proof of your name change, such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate, your new Social Security card, and/or your new driver's license.

Changing your passport

If you do want to change your passport name—either before or after your wedding—here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Your current passport.
• A completed form DS-5504 or DS-82 form.
• A certified copy of your marriage certificate.
• A check for the fees, if necessary. Make the check payable to “The U.S. Department of State,” and include your full name and date of birth in the memo line on the front of your check.

If your most recent passport was issued less than 12 months prior to the name change, you will be able to update your passport for free. If your passport was issued more than 12 months ago, it will cost you $130. You can also pay an additional $60 for an expedited service.

If you are not eligible to renew by mail—for example, if you don’t have documentation to support a name change due to marriage—you’ll have to apply in person using form DS-11, which more closely resembles the application for a new passport and requires more documentation, such as a birth certificate and photo ID.

Informing other agencies and institutions

Informing Agencies and Institutions

There are several agencies and institutions that you should inform when changing your last name before your wedding. Here is a detailed list:

• Social Security Administration (SSA): Notify the SSA early as possible. Other agencies are informed of name changes through the SSA. You will need to provide proof of your name change, such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate, along with your current Social Security card, proof of citizenship, and valid photo identification.
• Motor Vehicle Office: Contact your local motor vehicle office to update your driver's license or state-issued ID card. Having an updated license or ID will make changing your name with other agencies easier. Be sure to bring the necessary documents, such as your new Social Security card, proof of name change, proof of address, and valid photo identification.
• US Department of State: If you plan to travel internationally, ensure your passport is updated with your new name. You will need to complete a Form DS-5504 and provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate, your current passport, and any applicable fees.
• Naturalization Certificate and Certificate of Citizenship: If applicable, file an application to update your name on your naturalization or citizenship certificate.
• Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): If you receive veterans' healthcare or benefits, be sure to notify the VA of your name change.
• Voter Registration: Update your voter registration information through your state's website or by mail.
• Post Office: Inform the local post office that delivers your mail about your name change to ensure smooth delivery of correspondence.
• State Benefits Programs: Contact your state's social services office if you receive benefits such as SNAP (food stamps) or TANF (welfare).
• State and Property Taxes: Notify your state taxing authority and, if applicable, the city or county property tax office if you own a home.
• Insurance Companies: Inform your insurance providers, including car, health, home, rental, and life insurance companies, of your name change to ensure uninterrupted coverage.
• Employers: Notify your employer about your name change to update business cards, payroll, and tax forms.
• Schools: If applicable, inform any schools you are currently attending or previously attended about your name change to update their records.
• Financial Institutions: Notify your bank, credit union, credit card companies, and other financial institutions to update your records and avoid any issues with your accounts.
• Utility Companies: Contact utility providers, such as electric, phone, cable, and gas companies, to update your account information.
• Landlord or Mortgage Company: If you rent or own a home, be sure to inform your landlord or mortgage company of your name change.

Frequently asked questions