There are a lot of changes that take place after you get married. One of the first is the bride’s name should she choose to take her husband’s surname or take a new hyphenated last name. Every state has its own particular laws and procedures for changing your name, but – all in all – the process is a similar one.
The good news is that if you are changing your name due to becoming newly hitched, there is no legal process other than the wedding itself. You can use your new name as soon as you are married, but the documentation could take a little longer.
To change your name, you will need your marriage certificate, which you can request from the Bureau of Vital Statistics. Depending on where you go, you will most likely also need a valid ID and the documentation associated with that particular office. For instance, when you visit the Office of Social Security, you will need your original Social Security card when applying for your new one and your current driver’s license at the Department of Motor Vehicles.
When changing your name, don’t forget your passport, bank accounts, investments and vendors such as your mortgage company, credit cards, utility company, cable, phone, etc. Your employer will also need to be made aware of your new name.
If you are working with a premier wedding planner such as Affordable Beach Wedding, you can enjoy the peace of mind knowing that there is someone in your corner to help answer all of your questions.