Name Change Before Marriage: Your Options And Rights

Changing your name before your wedding is possible but may be a long and expensive process. In most cases, a marriage certificate is required to change your name, but there are ways to change your name legally without one.

In the US, you have the freedom to choose a new name, but it's not absolute. You can't change your name for confusing, misleading, or illegal reasons. The process of changing your name varies by state, but it usually involves getting a marriage license and filing for a marriage certificate. This document is crucial for legally changing your name and usually takes a few weeks to receive after the wedding ceremony.

If you're considering changing your name before your wedding, it's essential to research the specific requirements and process in your state. It may be more straightforward to wait until after the wedding to begin the name-change process.

Marriage certificate vs marriage license

A marriage license and a marriage certificate are two separate documents, both of which are required to be legally married.

A marriage license is a legal permit that confirms you and your partner are legally allowed to marry. It is issued by a state authority, such as a county court, and usually costs between $35 and $150. The license is valid for a limited time, typically between 30 days and a year, depending on the state. It must be presented during the ceremony and signed by the officiant, who then submits it to the relevant authority to be recorded.

A marriage certificate is a document issued after the wedding, proving that the marriage took place. It records the date, time, and place of the wedding, as well as the name of the officiant. It is required for changing one's name after marriage and for various administrative purposes, such as sharing health benefits, filing taxes, and applying for loans or mortgages. The cost of a marriage certificate varies between $5 and $26.

While the specific procedures and requirements may differ across states and countries, the key distinction is that the license permits the marriage, while the certificate confirms that the marriage has taken place.

Social Security card update

Updating your name on your Social Security card is one of the first steps to take when changing your name after getting married. This is because your Social Security number is used for identification and tax purposes, and is linked to other forms of ID such as your driver's license and passport.

How to Update Your Social Security Card

You can apply for a new Social Security card by mail or in person. If you plan on applying in person, you can fill out the application in advance to expedite the process. There is no charge for updating your Social Security card, but you will need to bring the following documents to your appointment:

• Proof of name change: a certified copy of your marriage certificate will suffice.
• Proof of citizenship: a valid passport, birth certificate, or a certified copy of your birth certificate.
• Valid photo identification: this can be a driver's license, unexpired passport, military ID, or state-issued ID card. This ID will have your original last name, which is acceptable.
• Your current Social Security card: note that you will keep the same Social Security number after your card is replaced.

If you are not a US citizen but will become a permanent resident after your wedding, you can find more information about the documents you need here.

Online Applications

If you got married in one of 21 participating states, you may be able to complete the process online without visiting a Social Security office. The current participating states are: Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Timing

It's recommended that you wait at least 24 hours after changing your name with Social Security to change your name on your driver's license, to give federal systems enough time to update. It's also recommended that you wait at least 30 days after your wedding to request a replacement card, to allow the state time to update its records.

You should receive your new Social Security card within 10-14 business days.

Driver's license update

Changing your name on your driver's license after getting married can be a time-consuming process, but it's not too complicated. Here are the steps you need to take:

Get Your Marriage License

Before changing your name on any official documents, you'll need a certified copy of your marriage license (also known as a marriage certificate) with the raised seal. If you didn't automatically receive one, contact the clerk's office where your license was filed to request copies.

Change Your Social Security Card

The next step is to update your name with the Social Security Administration. You can do this by visiting their website and filling out the application for a new Social Security card. Remember, you'll keep the same social security number, only your name will change. You can mail in your completed form along with copies of your ID and proof of name change (a certified copy of your marriage license) to your local Social Security office, or you can do it in person. You should receive your new card within 10 business days.

Change Your Driver's License

Once your new name is in the Social Security system (after 24 hours), it's time to head to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to get a new driver's license with your new name and photo. Be sure to bring all required forms of identification, which may include:

• Your current driver's license
• Your new Social Security card or receipt from the Social Security office
• Proof of name change (a certified copy of your marriage license)
• Proof of address (bank statement, utility bill, etc., if required by your state)
• Photo ID (valid driver's license, state ID card, military ID, valid passport)

There will likely be a fee for this service, so be prepared to pay with cash, check, or credit card, depending on what your local DMV accepts.

Update Your Passport and Travel Documents

If you're planning an international honeymoon, it's important to note that the name on your airline tickets must match the name on your passport. So, if you've already booked your travel under your maiden name, it's best to wait until you return home to update your passport. Once you're ready to change your passport, you'll need to contact the US Department of State and complete a Form DS-5504. You'll also need to provide:

• Your current US passport
• A completed Form DS-5504
• Proof of name change (a certified copy of your marriage license)
• A passport photo that meets the required criteria

By following these steps, you'll be able to update your driver's license and other important documents to reflect your new married name.

Passport update

Changing your name on your passport after getting married is not compulsory, but it is recommended. The name on your passport must match the name on your travel tickets and bookings. If you have travel booked within four months of your wedding, it is best to delay applying for a passport in your new name until you have finished travelling.

If you have travel booked in your new name and your passport does not match, you can either apply for a new passport, or call the airline and ask about their policy for reissuing tickets in your current name. If you have no travel booked, but are about to make a new booking, it is best to get tickets in the name that matches your current passport.

If you want to change your name on your passport, you can do so either before or after your wedding. If you apply for a new passport before your wedding, your old passport will be cancelled and your new passport will be "post-dated", meaning you cannot use it before the wedding. Some countries will not issue visas for post-dated passports, so check with the country's embassy or consulate before applying. You must also send a "passports for newlyweds and civil partners" form with your documents, signed by the religious minister or registrar who will conduct the ceremony.

If you are applying for a new passport in your new name after your wedding, you will need to send your marriage or civil partnership certificate with your application.

If your passport is less than a year old and your name change is also within the past 12 months, you can get a free replacement. If your wedding or passport is more than 12 months old, you will have to pay for a new 10-year passport.

To apply for a new passport, you will need to fill out a form and send it, along with your current passport, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, and a recent colour photograph that adheres to the required standards.

Bank accounts update

Updating your bank accounts after changing your name involves several steps and some paperwork, but it's a straightforward process. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Documents You'll Need:

• Certified copy of your marriage certificate: This is a vital document for initiating the name change process. You can obtain it from the county clerk's office where you filed your marriage license. It's recommended to get at least two or three copies.
• New Social Security card: Update your Social Security information with your new name. You can do this by filling out Form SS-5 and submitting it to your local Social Security office in person or by mail.
• New driver's license: Visit your local DMV office to update your driver's license with your new name and get a new photo taken. This usually involves a fee and may be considered part of the renewal process.
• Other forms of identification: A valid passport, military ID, or state-issued ID with your new name can also be helpful.

Steps to Update Bank Accounts:

• Contact your bank: Reach out to your bank to understand their specific process for updating your name. Some banks may require an in-person appointment, while others may allow you to mail or upload documents. It's best to check their requirements beforehand.
• Gather the required documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents mentioned above, including the certified copy of your marriage certificate, new Social Security card, and updated driver's license or other accepted forms of identification.
• Visit your bank branch: If an in-person appointment is required, schedule a visit to your local bank branch. Bring all the necessary documents with you.
• Provide the required documents: Submit the certified copy of your marriage certificate, new Social Security card, and updated driver's license or other accepted forms of ID to the bank. They may also require additional documents, so it's best to check with them beforehand.
• Order new debit cards and cheques: Once your name has been updated, be sure to order new debit cards and cheques bearing your new name.
• Update any joint accounts: If you have joint accounts with another person, they may need to accompany you to the bank for account retitling purposes. Inform them of the change and ensure they also update their records.
• Contact credit card companies: Different credit card companies may have varying processes for updating names. Contact each company to determine their specific requirements and provide them with the necessary documentation.

Remember to keep your original documents safe and make copies as needed. The process may vary slightly depending on your bank and location, but following these steps will help ensure a smooth transition in updating your bank accounts after your name change.

Frequently asked questions