Most people prefer to change their name after marriage to reflect the changes in their life. The most common route is to adapt the name of your spouse. However, there are others who combine their names into a new one while others find a new name for both husband and wife. Adopting the new married name is easy if you know the procedure. But how many times have you changed your name? Here is a simplified procedure on how to change your name after marriage.
Collect Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
The reason behind collecting the marriage certificate is to prove that the two of you are married. This will simplify the process of name change. The officer handling your case will require proof of identity and justification for the action you are taking. The certificate will come in handy. This is considered the most challenging part of changing a name after marriage. However, it will open doors for the others.
There are states that offer both the short and long form marriage certificate. The long version captures details about your parents and the places of birth. For your new married name change process to be easy and simplified, request the long one. The Social Security office will need the long certificate.
The certificate is obtained from the office where your marriage was officiated. You may request for it in person or have it mailed to you. There are fees to be paid for obtaining the certified copy and mailing. To make the process of name change faster, request several copies of the certificate. This enables you to file name change requests on several institutions at a time.
Fill The SS-5 Form at the Social Security Office
This is the office that has almost all your personal details as captured by the state. The reason for visiting this office is to update the details so that other institutions can also access them. Beyond the certified copies of your marriage certificate, you need other original documents. These documents are meant to prove your age, nationality, identity, etc. They include the old social security card, driving license, passport, etc. Anything that can prove your original identity is welcome. For non-citizens, you have to provide a reason why you need the change of name.
The social security office receives a lot of visitors on daily basis. You therefore need to get there on time to enable you obtain priority when people are being served. Be ready to camp at the office for a while. You can simplify your visit by carrying a form that is already filled. The form can be obtained online. Ensure that you provide the correct details to avoid delays or refusal of your form. The social security office notifies the tax department about the changes within ten days. It will be impossible to file returns using a different name.
Your Driving License Should Follow
Your number two stop should be the Department of Motor Vehicle or whichever organ deals with driving licenses within your state. DMV provides the forms you should fill online. Download the forms to enable you prepare beforehand. To get a new name on the license, you have to reapply for the license. The application process is basic process where you only need to indicate the changes and cross reference the old license. This could be an opportunity to update your photo and other details that have changed so far.
The marriage certificate will be used as proof of the new name. This is also an opportunity to include a new address if the new family has relocated. The vehicle title and registration might also be changed. If the vehicle is co-owed, you might need to inform the lien holder of the changes. The lien holder should inform you of the places you need to change. It takes time to get served at the Department of Motor Vehicle. You will need something to really occupy your time.
Update Your Details in Other Areas
It takes two to three weeks to get the approval at Social Security office and Department of Motor Vehicle. With your new ID at hand, you are now at liberty to change names at other institutions. For instance, if you have a paycheck that needs to be cashed, it will be impossible if the names differ. Your creditors are more sensitive because they might think that you are intending not to pay their dues. Inform your alumni, bank, Sacco, utility providers, passport office, etc.
The entire process takes time which translates into resources for transport, waiting, etc. To simplify the process you just need to inform a professional new marriage name change agent. Within weeks, all institutions you are affiliated to will have been informed. You will relax and enjoy your honeymoon as the name is changed on your behalf.
