How do I legally change my name after getting married?
Your marriage certificate is your legal authorization for a name change. Start by updating your Social Security card (SSA Form SS-5, free at ssa.gov), then your driver's license or state ID at the DMV, and finally your passport using Form DS-82 or DS-11.
Do I need a lawyer to change my name after marriage?
No. A marriage-based name change requires no court order and no attorney — your marriage certificate does the work. The entire process is handled through federal and state agencies at no cost except for any DMV or passport fees.
What is the correct order to change my name after marriage?
The recommended order is: (1) Social Security Administration (SSA Form SS-5), (2) DMV driver's license or state ID, (3) passport (DS-82 if valid for more than 1 year; DS-11 if expired), (4) bank accounts, (5) employer records, (6) voter registration.
How do I change my name after a divorce?
If your divorce decree includes a name restoration order, you can use it the same way as a marriage certificate at the SSA, DMV, and passport office. If no name order was included, you must file a petition for name change in your county superior court.
What forms do I need to change my name with the Social Security Administration?
File SSA Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) with your marriage certificate or court order and a government ID. Submit in person at your local SSA office or by mail. The updated card arrives in 10–14 business days at no charge.
How do I change my name on my driver's license after marriage?
Bring your updated Social Security card (or receipt), your marriage certificate, and your current license to your state DMV. Most states charge a small replacement fee ($10–$30). Some states allow online or mail renewal after you have updated your SSA card.
How do I change my name on my passport after marriage?
If your passport is less than 1 year old, use Form DS-5504 (free replacement). If it is more than 1 year old but less than 15 years, use Form DS-82 ($130 fee). Both require your marriage certificate, current passport, and a new passport photo.
How do I file a court petition for a name change?
Download your county's civil name change petition (e.g., California NC-100, Texas VS-170) from the court's website, complete it, pay the filing fee ($100–$450 depending on state), and attend the brief court hearing. Most judges grant name change petitions at the first hearing.
How do I change my name after divorce if it wasn't included in the decree?
File a Petition for Change of Name in your county superior court using the appropriate form for your state. Bring your divorce decree as supporting documentation. The court will issue a Name Change Order which you then use at the SSA and DMV.
How do I notify banks and creditors of my name change?
Bring your updated government ID and marriage certificate or court order to your bank in person or submit copies by mail to each creditor. Most financial institutions update records within 5–10 business days at no cost.
Do I need to update my name with the IRS after marriage?
The IRS updates your name automatically once the SSA processes your new Social Security card. You do not need to contact the IRS separately — but make sure you file your taxes using the same name the SSA has on file to avoid processing delays.
How long does a full name change take after marriage?
SSA card: 10–14 days. Driver's license: same day at DMV. Passport renewal (DS-82): 6–8 weeks routine, 2–3 weeks expedited. The entire process from marriage to updated passport typically takes 6–10 weeks.
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