Life-Events.org

Documents toProve Your New Name

The certificate is the primary document used to

prove your new married name. Individuals must use

the marriage certificate to change their name on

other identifying documents. The very first item that

newlyweds must alter is their Social Security card. A

Social Security card with your new legal name will

help with other name changes. While you have the

same Social Security Number your entire life, the

name linked can change. Failure to notify the Social

Security Administration (SSA) can result in a loss of

benefits and credits and can delay your tax return.

Other vital identifying documents that should match

your new name include the following:

After the nuptials, the officiant of your wedding will file your marriage with the local vital records agency. In a couple of days or weeks, depending on the state, you will receive your marriage certificate.

Life-Events.org

In most states, residents are required to submit a DMV change of

name notification within a certain period (usually 10 to 20 days). Driver

licenses are the most common proof of identity used and should be

second on your name change list. After changing your name with the

Social Security Administration, bring in your new Social Security card,

current driver license and marriage certificate to your local DMV to

perform the process.

Driver license

Though it is legal to travel under a maiden or previously used name,

international plane tickets must always reflect the name on your

passport. Those who change their name after marriage but do

not submit a name change on their passport may have difficulty

proving their identity abroad if the passport does not match their

driver licenses or credit cards. To change the name on your passport,

individuals must submit their current passport, marriage certificate

and birth certificate.

Passport

Changing your name on your green card is encouraged to avoid future

identification problems, but it is not legally required. To alter your name

on your green card, complete the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration

Services form I-90 online or by mail and include a certified copy of

the marriage certificate. USCIS may require an interview to confirm

changes, particularly if the marriage is to a U.S. citizen and the name

change applicant is applying for citizenship.

Permanent resident card

Life-Events.org

Most banks will ask to see proof of legal name change with a marriage

certificate.

Bank accounts

Some companies merely need an online submission of name change,

while others will need to see updated identification.

Credit cards

Depending on the lender, submitting a copy of your license, Social

Security card or marriage certificate may be required.

Deeds/mortgages

Depending on the lender, submitting a copy of your license, Social

Security card or marriage certificate may be required.

Employers

Many problems can arise for those who legally change their name after marriage but do not notify other

institutions. With a new Social Security card and a driver license with your legal married name, altering your name

on other accounts is simple. Newlyweds should submit name changes for:

Life-Events.org

When updating your driver license, it is also necessary to file for

changes to your vehicle’s registration and title.

Vehicle registrations and titles