The wedding was beautiful – and now comes the paperwork. Changing your name can seem daunting, but with our checklist, you'll handle it stress-free. Step by step to your new name!
Wedding Checklist 2026
All tasks before AND after the wedding – including complete name change steps!
The Basics: What Are Your Options?
You have several choices when it comes to your married name:
- Take your spouse's name: The most traditional option
- Keep your own name: Both partners can keep their birth names
- Hyphenate: Create a hyphenated combination of both names
- Your spouse takes your name: It's not just a one-way street!
Tipp
There's no legal requirement to change your name after marriage. Many couples choose to keep their names, especially for professional reasons.
Step 1: Get Your Marriage Certificate
Everything starts with your marriage certificate. You'll receive this from the registrar after your ceremony.
Important: Order multiple certified copies – you'll need them!
Recommended: Order at least 3-5 certified copies (each costs $10-25 depending on state).
Step 2: Social Security Card
In the US, this is your first priority. Your new Social Security card allows you to update all other documents.
What you need:
- Completed Form SS-5
- Marriage certificate (original or certified copy)
- Proof of identity (current ID)
Where: Social Security Administration (online, mail, or in person at ssa.gov)
Cost: Free
Timeline: 2-4 weeks
Profi-Tipp
You can start the process online at ssa.gov, then mail your documents or visit a local office. This saves time!
Step 3: Driver's License
Once you have your new Social Security card, head to the DMV.
What you need:
- Marriage certificate
- Social Security card with new name
- Current driver's license
- Proof of residency
Cost: Varies by state ($10-30 typical)
Timeline: Same day (in most states)
Step 4: Passport
If you have a passport or plan to travel internationally, update this next.
What you need:
- Form DS-5504 (within 1 year of marriage) or DS-82
- Current passport
- Certified marriage certificate
- Passport photo
Cost: Free if within 1 year; otherwise standard fees apply ($130-160)
Timeline: 6-8 weeks (expedited available for extra fee)
Achtung
Plan ahead if you have travel booked! Make sure your passport matches your ticket name. Book travel under your current legal name if passport isn't updated yet.
The Complete Checklist
Government & Legal
Financial
Employment
Insurance
Utilities & Subscriptions
Other
Profi-Tipp
Create a folder with copies of your marriage certificate and new ID. Having everything handy makes the process much smoother.
Timeline: When to Do What
Week 1-2 After Wedding
- Social Security card (Priority #1!)
- Notify employer
- Contact your bank
Week 3-4
- Driver's license (once SSN card arrives)
- Health insurance
- Update tax withholding (W-4)
Month 2-3
- Passport
- Update insurance policies
- Credit cards and financial accounts
As Needed
- Vehicle title (at next renewal)
- Voter registration (before next election)
- Professional licenses
Cost Overview
| Document | Cost (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Social Security Card | Free |
| Driver's License | $10-30 |
| Passport (within 1 year) | Free |
| Passport (after 1 year) | $130-160 |
| Certified Marriage Copies | $10-25 each |
Total: Expect to spend $50-150 for essential documents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Name Changes
Frequently Asked Questions
Pro Tips for a Smooth Process
Keep Records
Create a spreadsheet tracking:
- What needs to be changed
- Date completed
- Confirmation numbers
- Notes
Set Up Mail Forwarding
If your name appears on your mailbox, update it. Consider setting up mail forwarding if needed.
Update Your Email Signature
Add a note: "Formerly Jane Smith" for a few months to help contacts adjust.
Don't Rush International Travel
Make sure your passport and airline tickets match exactly. Book travel under your current legal name if your passport isn't updated yet.
Conclusion
The name change process is bureaucratic but totally manageable with a system. Start with Social Security, then work through the list methodically.
Our tip: Set aside a dedicated day and tackle it together. Even paperwork is better as a team!
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