I'm getting married next weekend...

Question

when do I start the name change process? Where do I begin?!?

Answer 1

You can't do anything until after you're legally married (the marriage certificate is signed by your officiant and your witnesses). After you have that, start with the Social Security Office. You'll need your marriage certificate for that and also for changing your name on your driver's license. Be sure to bring it with you to the DMV. But you have to go to Social Security and do it before you go to the DMV. Some of your credit card companies and banks will require your marriage certificate too, but others won't. Bank of America needs it; Washington Mutual doesn't.

Congrats!

Answer 2

Try to do it as soon as you legally get married, because they will ask for marriage certificate and your old social security and birth certificate. Best wishes !!!!!

Answer 3

If you are in the US, it's best to go to the Social Security office first.  Wait until you receive a processed copy of your marriage certificate and then take it there.  You will need a copy of your driver's license as well as either your birth certificate or your passport.  After you change it with the Social Security office, you should notify the DMV and everybody you do business with that your name has changed.  

Answer 4

me too! (8-16-08!) Congrats! It happens after the marriage- so don't worry about it until that monday after the wedding!

Answer 5

I'm surprised no one mentioned how long it could take to get your certified copy back in the mail.  I live in [near] Los Angeles, and he gave us up to 8 weeks.  Once you receive it, you can show it in person at the Social Security office, or mail in a certified copy (do not copy your certified copy, it has to be separate, and don't expect to get it back, so get two).  The DMV will not change your name until they confirm it with SS.  

Or, you can pay someone else to do the hard work.  http://missnowmrs.com/  I haven't used them, personally, but heard other brides talking about it on a forum.

Answer 6

you'll have to wait until you get your marriage license, but you can start signing your name with the new last name. Once you get your marriage license, get a new SS card. Then go to the DMV and switch all that over, change your license, etc...

You don't have to do an "official" name change as you would in any other case, but you still do have to update the correct authorities. Then change over your bank accts, etc...

Still waiting on my license!  

Answer 7

After the marriage. Most people like DMV and such will want to see a marriage certificate. CONGRATS!!!