How does one change their name?

allybabie Posted: Jun 22, 2007 09:25 AM

How does one change their name?

We just got married in May and I need to know how to legally change my name. What to I need to do, where do I go, what forms. There is no guidance anywhere. With our official marriage license I got an application for Social Security, but my boss who is a lawyer said I don't have to do that. I am so confused, can anybody help me?

SoontobeMrsO Posted: Jun 22, 2007 09:52 AM

Re: How does one change their name?

Hi, I also got married at the end of may and started the process to change my name legally.

Once I received my marriage license that has my old surname and my new surname I went to SS office and presented my marriage license, my drivers license and a form that i printed off from SS website.

The next step, when you get your new SS card it takes about 2 weeks, then you have to go to the DMV and change your drivers license.

Social Security Office - bring a legal copy of your marriage certificate, or the original b/c they will only make a copy of it, the form (on the website), a pen, legal ID, and your old SS Card.
Driver's License - bring a legal copy of your marriage certificate, or the original b/c they will only make a copy of it, the form (on the website), a pen, legal ID. You can do this at the same time as going to the SS Office b/c you won't need your new SS Card.

Banks - bring a legal copy of your marriage certificate, or the originally b/c they will only make a copy of it, a pen, legal ID, and you will need your new SS Card.

CCs/Bills - you can do most of this through telephone/email/website. Most do not require actual proof. However, my cable provider did ask me to send a copy of my new SS, a bill in my new name, and my new driver's license.

Work ID - I needed my new SS and had to fill out a form.

allybabie Posted: Jun 22, 2007 10:03 AM

Re: How does one change their name?

Thank you so so much! This has been so helpful to me. I kind of knew that was what I was supposed to do, but all my co-workers kept telling me that I did not have to go to social security, that I didn't have to do that. I should have just gone with my gut and went but I second guessed myself. The town hall sent me the applications for SS and DMV with our official marriage license. That was sign #1 that this stuff had to be done, otherwise why would they send it to me. UGH! So annoying and so stressful. Now I am kicking myself. But thank you so much for clarifying all of this for me. I truly appreciate it. And lots of luck to you and your new husband.

SoontobeMrsO Posted: Jun 22, 2007 10:17 AM

Re: How does one change their name?

Dont worry , i just went to the SS office last friday.

gpurple Posted: Jun 22, 2007 04:35 PM

Re: How does one change their name?

this is soooooooooooooo HELPFUL

thanks girls

PamR17 Posted: Jun 23, 2007 05:32 PM

Re: How does one change their name?

What about to change your name on your passport??

lredhead79 Posted: Jun 23, 2007 05:54 PM

Re: How does one change their name?

I just finished changing my name on everything...Im not sure where you are going or where you live but you need to have the ORIGINAL marraige license with you...NOT a copy. I know this b/c my officiant gave me a copy the day of our wedding ant old me I would need it to change my name and I went to SS and DMV with a copy & they would not accept it.
Also, if you have a car in your name, dont forget to bring your original title and have your registration changed