Here are tips on how to change your name legally once you’re married.

Traditionally, most brides opt to exchange their maiden name to the last name of their husband. You can do it this way but there are also other options.

You can :

• Change your maiden name to the last name of your husband
  This is the most common choice for brides.
  Ex.  from Jane Doe to Jane Smith
• Keep your maiden name
  This is the simplest option since you don’t have to change any of your documents.  This is perfect for women whose last names are well known or who are in a profession where they are recognized by their last name (like actresses)
  Ex. from Jane Doe to Jane Doe
• Hyphenate your last name
  You can combine your last name with his last name with a hyphen.
  Ex. from Jane Doe to Jane Doe-Smith
• Keep your maiden name as your middle name
  You can keep your last name as your middle name.
  Ex. from Jane Doe to Jane Doe Smith
• Have your husband change his last name!
  The groom can also take the bride’s surname.
  Ex. from John Smith to John Doe

How to Change Your Name in Documents

Most of the documents that have your name need to be notified in writing about your name change.  Include a copy of your marriage license with your letter.  Some banks and government offices might need to see the original marriage license.

Here are some of the documents where you should change your name :

• Passport
  Change this before the wedding day if you want to go on your honeymoon with your new name.  You can pick up a form from the post office at least 3 months ahead and send it in to be processed.  The passport will be post-dated and will not be valid until after the wedding.  If you need to travel before that, you should keep your old passport with your maiden name for your honeymoon.
• Bank / Credit cards
• Store cards
• Clubs and societies
• Dentist / Doctor
• Universities and Colleges
• Insurance companies
• Stocks and bonds
• Department of Health
• Social Security Administration
• State
• Department of Motor Vehicle – driver’s license
• Employer
• Email address
• Finance/loan companies
• IRS – Internal Revenue Service

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