Choosing A Name Post-Wedding: Freedom Or Constraints?

The wedding ceremony is a time-honoured tradition, but it's also a chance to express yourself and your values. One way to do this is by choosing what name you will take after the wedding. While it's common to take your spouse's last name, you can also keep your own name, hyphenate both last names, or even choose a new name altogether. The important thing is that it's your choice and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. In most places, you have the freedom to decide what suits you and your partner best. The ceremony itself is often a religious affair, so you can use any name you like. However, the legal paperwork is a different story. For official recognition of your marriage, you'll need to use your real name on the marriage license or certificate.

You can use any name at your wedding

Choosing what name to go by during your wedding ceremony and in your married life is a very personal decision. While it is a common tradition for a person to take their spouse's last name after marriage, it is not a requirement.

In most places, you are free to go by any name you choose during your wedding ceremony. The wedding ceremony is often a religious affair, and in most US states, there are no requirements for what must happen during the ceremony. The only thing that matters to the government is that the marriage certificate is appropriately filled out. This means that you can use any name you like during the ceremony itself.

However, it is important to note that if you want your marriage to be legally recognised, you will need to use your legal name on the marriage license or certificate. This document serves as proof of your new name and will be used to change your name with creditors, businesses, and other entities.

If you do decide to change your name, there are several steps you will need to take, including updating your Social Security card, driver's license or ID, passport, bank accounts, credit cards, insurance, and various other records and accounts.

Ultimately, the choice of what name to use during your wedding and in your married life is yours to make, and you should choose the option that feels best for you.

Your legal name must be on the marriage certificate

When it comes to your wedding, there are many choices to make, from the guest list to the food and, of course, what to wear. One of the most important decisions is what name you will take after the wedding. In most US states, you are free to choose whether to keep your name or take your partner's name. However, your legal name must be on the marriage certificate for it to be valid.

The marriage certificate is a legal document, and it is vital that it contains accurate information. This document is proof of your marriage and will be required for many future administrative tasks. It is essential that you sign the certificate with your current legal name. This is the name that appears on your birth certificate and other official documents. While you may go by a different name in your daily life, the name on the marriage certificate must match your legal name as recognised by the state.

It is important to note that the name on your marriage certificate does not need to match the name on your wedding invitations or even what is said during the ceremony. The ceremony is often a religious affair, and in most cases, the law does not dictate what names are used. You can be referred to by your chosen name during the ceremony and on your invitations, but the marriage certificate must contain your legal name.

After the wedding, if you choose to change your name, you will need to update your name with various organisations and government agencies. Your marriage certificate will serve as proof of your new name, allowing you to update your name with creditors, businesses and government bodies. It is essential to keep a certified copy of your marriage certificate in a safe place so that you can access it when needed for name changes and other official purposes.

You can keep your own name after marriage

Whether you're a bride or a groom, you can keep your own name after marriage. In most states, it's a matter of personal choice.

There are several reasons why someone might choose to keep their own name after marriage. For example, they may have a strong personal brand associated with their name, which could be important for their career and finances. Alternatively, they may have gotten married later in life, and their name might already be well-established.

What to Call Yourself

If you decide to keep your own name, you can go by "Mrs." or "Ms." as you prefer. "Mrs." is associated with marital status, whereas "Ms." is not.

What to Do if You Change Your Mind

There is no deadline for a name change after marriage. If you decide to change your name later, you can do so by gathering the necessary documents and taking care of the legal details.

You can take your spouse's name without a court order

In most US states, there are no requirements for what must happen during a wedding ceremony. The ceremony itself is not legally binding, and the marriage certificate is what matters to the government. As such, you can use whatever name you want during the ceremony. However, your legal name must appear on the marriage license or certificate.

While it is common for a spouse to take their partner's surname, it is not required. It is your choice, and you are free to keep your name or take your spouse's name. Some people choose to hyphenate their surname with their partner's, while others create a new name that didn't belong to either spouse.

If you decide to take your spouse's surname, you can use your marriage certificate as legal proof of the name change. The marriage certificate, along with other documents, can be used to update your name on various forms of identification and with different institutions, such as the Social Security Administration, the DMV, and the passport office.

It is worth noting that the process and requirements for changing your name may vary by country and jurisdiction. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check the local regulations and consult with a legal professional if needed.

You can use a different name socially and professionally

Using a different name socially and professionally is possible, but it may require some extra steps. While the ceremony itself is not legally binding, the marriage certificate is, and this requires your legal name. However, you can use whatever name you want during the wedding ceremony.

After the wedding, you can take your spouse's last name without applying for a court order. Most organizations in the US will accept a completed marriage license as legal proof of a name change. This is the case even if the marriage license lists your old name. However, if you want to change your first name or get a different last name, such as a merged name that combines both spouses' last names, you may need to get a court-ordered name change.

Once you have legally changed your name, you should start using your new name in all areas of your life. This includes when applying for loans or credit cards, starting school, or beginning a new job. You will also need to update your name with government agencies, which usually requires a certified copy of your marriage certificate. Most companies will also require a copy of your new identification for any existing loans or credit cards. Although identification requirements vary by lender, you will likely need to send a copy of your driver's license, social security card, passport, or marriage certificate.

It is important to note that changing your legal name does not automatically update your driver's license, social security card, or other records. These documents will need to be updated individually. Additionally, there is no deadline for a name change after marriage. You do not have to adhere to any time limit for changing your name.

Frequently asked questions