10.11.2016

Ruby's Blog | Changing Your Last Name




Hello Bride & Groom’s To Be!

I’m Ruby the Rochester Bride! As a newlywed of the Rochester area, I love sharing my knowledge of the wedding experience with newly engaged couples. This week, I'm going to discuss with you how to go about changing your last name after the wedding, if you choose to do so.

{1} Marriage Certificate: Before you can change your last name, you’re going to need your original marriage license that will have the raised seal and your new last name on it. You can go to the clerk's office where your license was filed and have them get you the copy of your marriage license.

{2} Social Security Card: To change your last name on your social security card you’re going to need to visit the Social Security Administration’s website and fill out the application for a new card. Your social security number will stay the same! After filling out the application, mail it in to the local Social Security Administration office. You can expect to see the new card about two or three weeks after that. 

{3} Driver’s License: Go to your local DMV office to have your driver’s license changed to your new last name! You’re going to need to bring every form of identification that you have; your old license, marriage certification, passport, proof of residency, and your new social security card. No one loves going to the DMV but the more documents you bring with you, the easier it will be to change your name. 

{4} Bank Account: If not done right, changing your last name on your bank account could be the hardest of them all. The best and fastest way to change your last name at you bank is by going right into the branch that is closest to you. You’re going to need to bring your new driver’s license, marriage certification, and new social security card. While you’re at the bank, you should ask for new checks and credit or debit cards. Keep in mind you might have to pay a fee for ordering these new items with your new last name on them, if you choose to get new ones before they expire.

{5} Other Changes: After changing your last name from the list above, other places should be much easier! Some may ask for just a phone call others might need to see your marriage license or your new social security card. 
  • Employers
  • Post office
  • Electric and other utility companies
  • Credit card companies
  • School and alumni associations
  • Landlord or Mortgage Company
  • Insurance companies
  • Doctors' offices
  • Voter registration office
  • Investment account providers
  • Your attorney
  • Passport agency
 Important note!  Make sure to change your last name after your honeymoon, or give yourself three to four weeks after filing the papers before you want to travel. You may run into issues at the airport if you go beforehand.