Changing Last Name After Marriage

It is an age old tradition of changing last name after marriage and is followed almost everywhere around the globe. The husband's last name becomes the official last name of the woman after marriage however, this decision of name change entirely depends on the woman. It is neither legally nor ethically obligatory. Only if the bride wishes to conduct the change of last name after marriage, she has to follow certain steps to change last name after marriage.

There is no such rule in the book of law wherein it is compulsory for a woman to change her maiden last name to her husband's last name after their marriage. Most women do it out of social etiquette or out of courtesy. Nowadays there is a growing trend of women keeping their maiden last name and hyphenating it with their husband's last name. This is mostly done by women who have their own individual identity or if their name is a brand in itself and is well-known globally. Many prefer to keep their maiden last name intact even after marriage. There is also an option to use your maiden name as your middle name. Another possible but rare option is for the husband to change his last name after marriage to his wife's last name.

Apparently, the law books allow you to change your name anytime and in any way you like. Any time during your life, due to whatsoever reasons, you are permitted to change your first as well as last name. Both or either names may not have any relation with your parental names. Though the laws may vary from place to place, it is slight and the procedure depends accordingly.

For any such major changes, there is a strict procedure that has to be followed and the name change has to be made legal. Also, be careful that the new name you choose does not represent some person who is under legal complications of any kind. It should have only alphabets and should not consist of any obscene words.

Hope the following guidelines help you in the process of changing your last name legally.

How to Change Last Name After Marriage

Step 1: The process of changing name starts from the Social Security office. Before that you have to fill an online form, for name change, which is available on the Social Security website. Take a printout of the form and fill it out correctly.

Step 2: The next step is to take the completely filled out form, along with your social security card, marriage license and driver's license/passport (or any other photo Id proof), to the Social Security Office. They will issue a temporary social security card for you with your changed name. Also, the Social Security administration will inform the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about the change, within 10 days.

Step 3: The next important document that requires the name change intimation is your driving license. Go to the department of motor vehicle with your temporary social security card, driving license and your marriage license to make the necessary changes on your driving license.

Step 4: Last but not the least, the name change has to be conveyed to family and friends as well as to all other institutions that you have any business correspondences with, such as banks, credit card companies, your current employers, insurance companies, mobile companies, passport office, etc.

The procedure may vary from state to state and hence, it should be confirmed from the local authorities. Changing name or changing last name after marriage is a big decision and has to be effectively implemented else, it may cause some unwanted legal issues. Enjoy the transition from 'Miss' to 'Mrs' and all the best to you!