How to Change Your Last Name Step-by-Step

1. File for Your Marriage Certificate

2. Update Your Social Security Card

3. Update Your Driver’s License

4. Update Your Passport

5. Update Your Financial Institutions, Insurance Policies, and Bills

File for Your Marriage Certificate

The marriage certificate is the document that states when a couple has been legally wed. Not to be confused with the marriage license, which gives the couple permission to wed. This document is typically filed the day after the wedding by the officiant. However, the couple can choose to file it themselves. This is done at the courthouse in the county that the ceremony took place.

In most cases, changing your last name requires proof of marriage. Oftentimes, the original marriage certificate will remain at the courthouse. However, you can request to obtain certified copies of your marriage certificate. The rule of thumb is to request at two copies - one to put back in a safe and the other to use in the name change process.

Update Your Social Security Card

Your social security card is the first thing you’ll want to change because it’s the foundation for changing everything else. You’ll need to either mail in the name change application or go to your local Social Security Office in person to file for a new social security card. Proof of marriage, proof of citizenship, photo identification, and your current social security card will be required to submit the application.

Once these things have been completed, it typically takes 7-14 business days to receive your new social security card.

Update Your Drivers License

Now that you’ve received your social security card, you can go to the local DMV and update your driver’s license. In order to update anything else, you’ll likely need a photo ID. So, this part is particularly important. Make sure to bring your social security card, proof of address, proof of marriage, and a payment method.

Update Your Passport

If you’re going out of the country for your honeymoon, we recommend waiting until after you’ve returned from your trip to update your passport. Keep in mind that the name on your passport and boarding ticket must match in order to travel.

To change the last name on your passport, you’ll need to apply for a correction by mail. You can select which form best fits your situation from this interactive tool. Send the completed form and necessary supporting documents to the National Passport Processing Center.

In certain circumstances, this change will cost up to $130.

Update Your Financial Institutions, Insurance Policies, and Bills

After you’ve updated your legal documents, it’s time to get started on the tedious process of updating everything else. All these institutions will handle the manner change differently, so it’s best to contact each one directly to see their recommended process. However, they’ll all require the same documents you’ve already obtained in steps 1-4.