Changing your name after marriage involves a series of steps to ensure that government agencies, financial institutions, and other organizations recognize your new name. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

Step #1 – Obtain a Certified Marriage Certificate: 

The first step in changing your name is obtaining a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This document serves as proof of your legal union and is essential for updating your name on various forms of identification.

Step #2 – Update Your Social Security Card: 

Your Social Security number is a unique identifier, composed of nine digits, serving both identification and taxation purposes. According to all federal and state entities, your identity is associated with the name registered with the SSA (Social Security Administration). If your new name doesn’t match the name on your SSA records at the time of applying for a new driver’s license or passport, your name change application will likely be denied.

To obtain a new Social Security card, you have the option to apply either by mail or in person. For those opting for in-person applications, it’s helpful to locate the nearest Social Security office (click here for locations). Completing the application beforehand can streamline the in-person process. Updating your Social Security card is free, but you’ll need to provide the following documents during your appointment:

• Proof of name change – If you’re just changing your name to your fiancé’s/ spouse’s last name, a certified copy of your marriage certificate will work great.
• Proof of citizenship – A valid passport, birth certificate, or a certified copy of the birth certificate.
• Valid photo identification – A driver’s license, unexpired passport, military ID, or a state-issued ID card will work. Your ID will have your current last name, which is normal and not a problem.
• Your current Social Security card – Your social security number will stay the same after your name change. 

For non-U.S. citizens transitioning to permanent U.S. residency post-marriage, additional document requirements and steps in the Social Security process are outlined in this link.

Step #3 – Update Your Driver’s License or State ID: 

After updating your Social Security card, it’s time to update your Drivers License or State ID (military ID’s are acceptable as well). In order to update your name with banks, credit cards, etc., it’s likely that you’ll need to provide an ID with your newly updated name.

Tip: It’s best to allow at least 24 hours to pass after updating your name with the Social Security Administration before you attempt to update your name on your driver’s license. This delay ensures that federal databases have enough time to process your Social Security name change, allowing for smooth verification at the state level. Even better would be to wait until you’ve received your new Social Security card in hand, as to eliminate any chance of questioning.

With your updated Social Security card, visit the Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency in your state to update your driver’s license or state ID (this must be done in person). In many states, a name change is treated as a part of the license renewal procedure. Therefore, it’s recommended to complete the license renewal forms ahead of time to save time at your visit.

You’ll need the following items when changing your name at the DMV:

• Your updated Social Security card or a receipt from the Social Security office.
• Proof of your address if your state mandates it (such as a utility bill, bank statement, insurance paperwork, lease agreement, or mortgage papers).
• An official copy of your marriage certificate, (which will be given back to you).
• Various payment methods. Since some locations may not take credit cards, it’s wise to carry cash or a checkbook as alternatives.

Step #4 – Update Your Passport

If you plan on traveling outside of the US for your honeymoon, then it may be worth waiting until you’ve updated your passport. The ID you travel with needs to match the name on your boarding pass (this is typically a passport when traveling internationally). If your boarding pass and updated passport have different names (one with your original, and the other with your updated name), then you likely won’t be able to board the flight. 

Changing your name on a passport is treated as a correction, and must be submitted via mail. The U.S. Department of State offers an online tool to assist in selecting the correct form based on your situation. Then, send the following items to the National Passport Processing Center:

• The completed DS-5504 or DS-82 form
• An official copy of your marriage certificate
• Your current passport
• A payment check for the applicable fee. The check should be made out to “The U.S. Department of State,” with your full name and birth date noted in the check’s memo section
• Note: The cost of updating your passport can be up to $130 depending on when you last updated your passport

Step #5 – Update Global Entry and TSA Pre-check: 

Upon receiving your new passport, it will have a different passport number. To maintain the validity of your Global Entry account, you’ll need to inform the Global Entry offices of this new number. Unfortunately, this update can’t be completed online; you are required to visit a Global Entry Enrollment Center in person for this update.

After your visit, your existing Global Entry number will be associated with your new passport. While it is not strictly necessary, if you wish to have a new Global Entry card reflecting a change in your last name, you have the option to request one through your online account. The most important aspect is that the digital data links your new passport number with your Global Entry number (this is updated in the digital data system at your in-person visit)l.

If your TSA PreCheck benefits are linked to your Global Entry membership, any name updates you make in the Global Entry system will automatically adjust your TSA PreCheck details as well. However, for those who possess TSA PreCheck independently of Global Entry and wish to change their name, it’s encouraged to either dial 855-347-8371 or send an online request to start the name modification procedure.

Step #6 – Update Your Bank Account: 

The process for updating your name varies by bank. Some banks may request that you visit in person, while others might allow you to submit or upload documents remotely. Regardless of the method, legal verification of your name change is a must. Fortunately, the documentation needed, such as a certified marriage certificate, your updated Social Security card, and your new driver’s license or state-issued ID, should already be in your possession. After your name has been updated, don’t forget to request a new debit card and checks that reflect your changed last name.

Step #7 – Update Your Credit Cards: 

Credit card issuers vary in their processes for updating your last name, with many requiring proof of your legal name change. To find out the specific steps you need to take, it’s best to contact their customer service directly, using the phone number provided on the back of your credit cards, or by going to their website.

Step #8 – Update Your Insurance & Other Bills: 

To prevent any accidental disruptions in your insurance coverage, it’s important to update all your policies (such as home, health, and auto insurance) with your new last name as soon as possible. While the process may vary across providers, be prepared to show them your updated ID and/or a certified marriage certificate as proof of your name change.

Given that marriage is recognized as a significant life event, you have the option to join your spouse’s health insurance plan, or they can join yours, without needing to wait for the annual open enrollment period. To make sure this goes smoothly, it’s advised to do this after your new name is officially recognized with the Social Security Administration and reflected on your driver’s license or state-issued identification before merging insurance plans.

Additionally, update your independently paid bills like your mortgage, utility companies, car payments, student loans, etc. You can update your name with most of them by going to your account portal, and adjusting your name directly.  

Step #9 – Update Your Jobs HR Department: 

Inform your Human Resources department about your name change so they can make the necessary updates to your payroll information and employer-provided benefits, including health insurance and 401(k) plans.

Step #10 – Update Your Name Change on Misc Accounts: 

You can update your name on recreational accounts like Amazon, Netflix, Spotify, and others directly through your account menu. You typically won’t need to provide any documents.

Step #11 – Update Your Name Change Publicly: 

Now that you’ve taken care of the ‘business’ side of things, it’s time to announce your new name publicly. You can announce & change your name on social media, your email, and other public communication platforms so that people know your new last name.