Changing from your Maiden to Married Name

Some women prefer to keep their maiden name rather than take on their husband's last name.  Not in my case.  I was happy to take on my husband's last name, however, I wasn't happy with the fact that I would have to drive around the world to get my name change!  There are some websites that will allow you to pay a fee and have all your information gathered in one sitting so that you can change your name.  But don't quote me, I believe you still had to send or drop off that information to the designated areas before anything would be changed.  

Here I am going to list some areas of importance on how you should go about getting your name changed.  The first few are most important and then the few afterwards are up to you and what timeframe you feel the need to change your name.

The number one priority item you will need for your name change is a CERTIFIED copy of your marriage license.  I was allowed to apply for a copy when I applied for my license to marry.  You could also go to the courthouse to request a copy.  Copies are charged by the fee so check with your local courthouse to see what the fees are.  

The number one place of importance of where you need to go to get your name changed is the Social Security Administration.  There you are going to need a picture id, as well as a CERTIFIED copy of your marriage license.  Also, you have to fill out an application with your new name change.  You will not have to pay anything (at least I didn't) while you are there.  They will give your a letter stating that your new social security card will be mailed within in five to ten business days so make sure you have an updated address.

Next, is to get your new license.  Of course again you will need the CERTIFIED copy of your marriage license, your old license, and a completed application.  According to DMV of Virginia, you will needed a completed "Driver's License and Identified Card" application (click here for link).  If you are like me with an out-of-state license, they just require that you have a license, that is VALID and up-to-date (unexpired).

If you are employed you want to be sure that your employer knows you are changing from your maiden name to your married name because you will have to refill out forms such as a W-4, and a state tax form (Form VA-4 in Virginia).  Also, you will have refill out your information for your medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, and any 401k, 403b, retirement plans, etc.

The last big ticket item will be going to your bank and/or credit union to inform them of your change.  You will have to go to the bank, in person, with your CERTIFIED copy of your marriage license.  There you can change all of your information on your account, apply for new debit/credit cards, and order new checks.

The following places can be contacted at your convenience:

• Notify creditors
• Landlord or mortgage
• Other insurances (auto, life, home, etc.)
• Doctor's offices
• Professional Licensing Boards
• Attorney (to update legal documentation)
• Utility companies
• Post office
• Passport (if you are going on a honeymoon that requires a passport, it is HIGHLY recommended that you change your name AFTER you come back).
• Voter Registration card
• Alumni Association(s)
• Checks and Credit Cards
• Student Loans
• Vehicle Titles
• Gym Membership 
• Social Media sites
• Home Address labels
• Email address/Email signature
• Business paraphernalia (business cards, brochures, etc.)
• Library card
• Online & Magazine subscriptions

I'm sure they are other places to change your name, but do as you see fit.  This is just an idea to get you started or help you with some places you may have forgotten.  Hope this helps!

Peace & Happiness!

~Erika B