Changing your maiden name to your new husband's last name can be done as soon as you wish after your wedding. If you plan to use your husband's last name as your new legal name, you will need to register the change with the U.S. Social Security Administration. Changing your name involves filling out a form and providing documents to the Social Security Administration that prove your identity and support your reason for a name change.
Step 1
Complete form SS-5, or Application for a Social Security Card, in blue or black ink. The form is found on the Social Security Administration website or at local Social Security Administration offices.
Step 2
Attach proof of your identity to the application. Acceptable documents include U.S. driver's license, birth certificate, adoption decree, U.S. passport or U.S. state-issued non-driver identity card.
Step 3
Include a certified copy of your marriage certificate. A certified copy contains a raised seal.
Step 4
Sign and date form SS-5. Make a photocopy for your records.
Step 5
Mail the completed form, along with your supporting documentation, to the Social Security Administration. Check the Social Security Administration website for the address of the office that supports your area.
Step 6
Visit your local Social Security Administration office if you prefer not to mail supporting documents. Locations of local offices are found on the Social Security Administration website.
Step 7
Wait for your new Social Security card to arrive. If you mail your application, the Social Security Administration will return copies of your supporting documents when it processes your application.
Tips and Warnings
- The Social Security Administration recommends telling your employer when you change your name. Informing your employer of your name change as soon as possible will help ensure that your earnings are properly reported. Be sure to change your name on your driver's license and other forms of identification, including your passport, after your marriage. When you have a new driver's license and new social security card, change your name on bank and credit card accounts, voter registration, insurance policies, utilities and mortgage records. Some institutions may ask to see a copy of your license or Social Security card before making the change, while others will ask for proof of marriage, according to LegalZoom.com. If you live in the United States, but aren't a citizen, the Social Security Administration must see your foreign passport with biographical information or photograph and your current U.S. immigration documents to process your name change request.
- Don't use photocopies of documents when submitting your application. All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency, according to the Social Security Administration. Notarized copies of documents are not accepted.
Things You'll Need
- Form SS-5: Application for a Social Security Card
- Proof of Identify
- Marriage Certificate
