💍 The Ultimate Guide to Changing Your Name After Your Wedding

Congratulations! You've tied the knot, celebrated your love, and now you’re stepping into a new chapter together. If you’re considering changing your last name after marriage, you’re not alone—but you are in for a bit of paperwork. Changing your name after your wedding is a meaningful tradition for many couples, symbolizing your new union. While the process may feel overwhelming, breaking it into manageable steps can make things much easier. This guide from Smoky Mountain wedding officiant Rev. Jill Dillner walks you through everything you need to know, step-by-step.

✅ Step 1: Decide on Your New Name

Start by discussing your name change options with your partner. Will one of you take the other's last name? Combine both? Hyphenate? Choose what resonates with your values and relationship—there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

✅ Step 2: Get Your Certified Marriage Certificate

Your marriage certificate is your legal proof of marriage and is required for nearly every name change. Request 4–5 certified copies from the office where your license was filed—you’ll need originals or certified copies for most agencies.

✅ Step 3: Update Your Social Security Card

One of the first places to notify is the Social Security Administration (SSA). Fill out the SSA’s name change application and submit it with your marriage certificate and ID. 🔗 Social Security Name Change Info

✅ Step 4: Update Your Driver’s License or State ID

Next, head to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to update your driver's license or state ID. Check your local requirements beforehand—some states require additional documentation under REAL ID laws.

✅ Step 5: Update Your Passport

If you plan to travel, hold off on your passport name change until after your honeymoon. Complete the appropriate application, include your current passport, certified marriage certificate, and mail everything to the U.S. Department of State. Processing times range from 6–8 weeks, or 2–3 weeks if expedited. 🔗 Passport Name Change Instructions

✅ Step 6: Notify Government Agencies

Other government entities may need notification: Veterans Administration (VA) IRS (if applicable) State tax or business licensing offices Local election boards Visit each site for specific instructions.

✅ Step 7: Update Your Financial Accounts

Update your name with: Banks Credit card companies Loan providers Investment and retirement accounts You’ll typically need a copy of your marriage certificate and updated ID.

✅ Step 8: Notify Your Employer

Update your HR and payroll records to reflect your new name. This may include: Direct deposit details Email address Tax documents (W-2, 1099) Name tags, badges, or business cards

✅ Step 9: Update Health Insurance and Benefits

Contact your insurance providers and benefits administrator to: Update your name Add your spouse as a dependent (if needed) Request new ID cards

✅ Step 10: Update Personal Records

Don’t forget to update: Voter registration Professional licenses Utilities and subscriptions Healthcare providers School or alumni records Airline loyalty programs

💡 Final Thoughts Changing your name after marriage takes time and patience, but it’s a meaningful step in your journey as a couple. Stay organized, celebrate the milestones, and enjoy embracing your shared identity. ✨

Need help planning your ceremony or elopement in the Smoky Mountains? Connect with Rev. Jill Dillner, an experienced officiant who helps couples create heartfelt, personalized wedding experiences.

📩 Contact Rev. Jill Dillner at revjilldillner@gmail.com