Do I need to do anything if I'm keeping my maiden name after marriage?

Question

My fiance and I are finally getting married. He and I have talked about it and I am keeping my maiden name. I am wondering if I need to do anything to keep my name. The way I figure it, I don't need to, unless I want to update marital status on some things, but I don't need to change my last name.

Answer 1

Depending on the state you marry in you may need to ensure it is noted that your name isn't changing on the marriage license application.Some states don't offer the option to change your name with the marriage so it really depends on where you live.  Congratulations on your upcoming wedding.

Answer 2

You don't need to do anything... but keep in mind that if you do choose to change your name because you want a family name for your kids, or you want to hyphenate, or whatever, there are many more hoops to go through later.

Answer 3

You won't have to really do a thing, just make sure that you have your maiden name listed as the last name on your marriage certificate. My friend didn't realize the pastor had filled it out and put both surnames as the husband's. She had to work really hard to get that fixed.  

Answer 4

you don't say which state you're in...but in most states, when you apply for your marriage license, it asks what name you will use after marriage, so check that out.

Answer 5

no need to do a thing