How to: Name Change After Marriage

For newly minted wives, probably the least exciting part is the name change after marriage. Luckily, it’s a straightforward (though somewhat tedious) process.

Here’s how to change your last name after getting married:

1. Get your marriage license

After the ceremony, you can get your official (or certified) marriage license from the City Clerk’s office where your license was filed. In Manhattan, the City Clerk’s Office is at 141 Worth Street.

2. Change your social security card

You’ll need to fill out an application at the Social Security Administration’s website to get a new name listed on your social security card (your number will stay the same). Then, mail in the application to the local Social Security Administration office; find the closest location here.

3. Change your driver’s license

Time to make a trip to the DMV to get a new license. Bring as much supporting documentation as you can, including your old driver’s license, your certified marriage certificate and your new Social Security card.

4. Change your bank accounts

The fastest way to change your name at your bank is to go into a branch location, bringing your new driver’s license and your marriage certificate.

5. Change everything else ever associated with your name

The list is endless, but a few biggies include your employer, the post office, credit card companies, utility companies. landlords/mortgage companies, insurance companies, voter registration office, the passport office, and your lawyer. With your new social security card and driver’s license, these changes should be fairly swift.

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Getting Married in NYC: From Applying to Marriage License to Receiving a Marriage Certificate