If you're planning to legally change your name after the honeymoon, use this checklist to help you remember to change your name on the following records:
Start with...
- Social Security Administration
Application for a New Social Security Card - Department of Motor Vehicles - Drivers License and Vehicle Registration
This is likely to require an in-person appearance at your local Department of Motor Vehicles to submit forms, which are provided on the premises. Bring two kinds of identification, such as a certified copy of your marriage license and/or birth certificate, your current driver's license, or a U.S. passport. Don't expect to be able to change the name or address on the title of your car, however: A new title is only issued upon transfer of ownership.
Note: It takes about 10 days for IRS records to be updated after the Social Security Administration effects your name change.
- U.S. Passport Agency
Correcting or Changing Information in Your Passport
- U.S. Post Office
- Employer
- 401k / Retirement plans
- Credit card companies
- Bank accounts / names on checkbook
- Mortgage
- Voter registration
- Doctor, dentist, HMO, medical records, heath-care proxy
- Health, life, auto, and home insurance policies
- Clubs
- Memberships
- Discount, courtesy, and frequent-flyer cards
- Utility companies (phone, cable, gas, electric, etc.)
- Legal Contracts
- Will (you may want to change the beneficiary to your spouse at the same time)
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