Changing Your Name...From Miss to Mrs.
Changing your name after marriage can seem overwhelming at first, but once
you read this article, you will have more of an idea what is required,
therefore limiting the stress, to a degree.
Social Security Card
You must first change
your name on your social security card before you do anything else.
Attempting to visit the DMV for a new drivers license will result in them
directing you to the SS office first. In addition to filling out a form for
the SS office, you will have to provide three things:
• Proof of US citizenship (current SS card works)
• Legal Name Change (copy of Marriage License)
• Identity (drivers license)
(these documents have to be the originals, not copies)
The Official SS website will help you with any questions:
Social Security Website
Drivers License
Once you have filed
for the new SS card, you can make your way to the local DMV. In NC, you
have to apply for a new license within 60 days of changing your name, and
you must have a copy of your marriage license as well as documentation that
your SS card has been changed. Don’t forget to be prepared to pay for your
renewal license!
The Official NC DMV site is:
NC DMV
Passport
If you have a
passport, you’ll need to change the name there also.
You’ll need to:
• Fill out the appropriate form (DS-5504)
• Submit the passport to be replaced
• Have evidence of name change (marriage certificate)
• Two recent passport photos
*There is a $60 fee to renew your passport
The Official Passport website is:
Passport Website
Paperwork Galore
You have officially
made it past a big hurdle in the name change process, now all that’s left is
changing every sort of document that has your old name reflected on it.
This includes:
• Credit Cards
• Bank Accounts
• Business Cards
• Mortgages/Leases
• Money Market/Stock Accounts
• Car Titles
• School Loans
• Email Accounts
• Insurance Accounts
• Doctor’s Records
• School Records (if you are a student)
• Utilities
• Bills
• Registrar of Voters
• Post Office
• Stationary
• Etc.
