The DC Marriage Knot Bride's Guide: How to Change Your Name by Officiant Starlene

 

How to Change Your Name: The Bride’s Ultimate Guide

 

  1. Get Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate
  • After your wedding, obtain certified copies of your marriage certificate from the county clerk where your marriage license was issued. Most agencies will require this document as proof of your name change.
  1. Update Your Social Security Card
  • Visit the Social Security Administration (SSA):
    • Fill out the SS-5 form (Application for a Social Security Card), available online or at an SSA office.
    • Provide proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, state ID, or passport) and your certified marriage certificate.
    • Submit the form in person or by mail.
  • Your new Social Security card will be mailed to you (your number will remain the same).
  1. Update Your Driver’s License or State ID
  • Go to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) with:
    • Your updated Social Security card.
    • Certified marriage certificate.
    • Current driver’s license or ID.
  • Complete any required forms and pay the fee for a new license or ID.
  1. Update Your Passport
  • If you have a passport, you can update it by:
    • Filling out the appropriate form:
      • DS-82: For a passport renewal with a name change.
      • DS-5504: For a name change within one year of passport issuance (no fee for this).
    • Submit your current passport, marriage certificate, and a new passport photo.
  • Mail your application to the address on the form.
  1. Notify Other Agencies and Organizations
  • Update your name with:
    • Banks and credit card companies.
    • Insurance providers (health, car, life, etc.).
    • Employers (for tax and payroll purposes).
    • Utilities and service providers.
    • Voter registration.
    • Professional licenses and memberships.
  1. Use a Name Change Service (Optional)
  • Services like HitchSwitch, MissNowMrs, or EasyNameChange can simplify the process by providing pre-filled forms and step-by-step guidance.

Tips for a Smooth Name Change Process:

  • Start with your Social Security card because most other agencies require it to match.
  • Make a list of all the institutions that need to know about your name change to ensure nothing is missed.
  • Keep certified copies of your marriage certificate handy for multiple updates.