^{Image Courtesy of Ravenberg Photography}

Is there anything more fun (and maybe a little surreal) than seeing your new married name written out for the first time?

Whether you’re taking your spouse’s name, hyphenating, combining names, or keeping your own—changing your name after an LDS wedding can be a meaningful part of the marriage journey. And while it does involve a bit of paperwork, don’t worry—we’ve broken it down step by step to make it simple.

Let’s walk through the process together.

Start with Your Marriage License and Certificate

Before anything else, you’ll need a certified copy of your marriage certificate (not just the pretty keepsake one). When you apply for your marriage license, ask for a few certified copies right then and there—they’re inexpensive, and you’ll be glad you have extras on hand.

Social Security Card (Do This One First!)

To legally update your name, start with the Social Security Administration. It’s free, and it's the foundation for everything else.

Here's what you’ll need:

• The official SSA name change form (available at ssa.gov)

• A certified copy of your marriage certificate

• Photo ID (like your driver’s license or passport)

• Proof of citizenship (passport or birth certificate)

You can mail in your application or take it to your local SSA office. Your original documents will be returned with your shiny new Social Security card.

Update Your Driver’s License

Once your Social Security card arrives, it’s time to visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (or your state’s version). Check online to see if you can make an appointment—trust us, it’s worth it.

Bring:

• Your new Social Security card

• Your current driver’s license

• A certified copy of your marriage certificate

• Any other required documents (varies by state—check ahead!)

There may be a small fee, usually around $10–$30.

Apply for a New Passport

Planning a honeymoon or mission trip? If your passport still has your maiden name, you’ll need to update it.

Visit travel.state.gov to see which form you need. Generally, you’ll send in:

• The correct form

• Your old passport

• A certified copy of your marriage certificate

• Two passport photos

If your passport was issued within the last year, the name change is free! If it’s older, you’ll pay the standard renewal fee.

Important: Make sure any booked travel matches the name on your current passport and ID—even if that means using your maiden name for the honeymoon.

Notify Your Employer

Let your employer know about your name change so they can update:

• Your paycheck and tax forms

• Your HR and payroll records

• Your email address, business cards, or name tag

They may ask to see your marriage certificate or your updated Social Security card.

Remember School Records

Still in school? Visit your Registrar’s Office to update your name. Most schools have a short form and may ask for a copy of your marriage certificate.

Update Financial Accounts

Your bank, credit union, and investment accounts will all need to reflect your new name. Call ahead to find out what documentation they require.

Also remember to update:

• Credit and debit cards

• Checks

• Joint accounts (if applicable)

Everything Else: A Handy Checklist

Here's a quick list of other places to notify:

• Car registration and insurance

• Health, dental, and life insurance

• Utilities and billing accounts

• Voter registration

• Post office (for mail forwarding, if needed)

• Library card

• Alumni groups and church records

• Frequent flyer accounts

• Online shopping and subscription services

You can create a short form letter to mail, or handle most of these online as they come up.

Final Thoughts for the Faith-Filled Bride

The number of places to update your name might feel a bit overwhelming at first—but take a deep breath and work through the list a little at a time. Within a few weeks, you'll start seeing your new name show up everywhere—on your mail, your bank statements, even your Sunday program.

And every time you see it, you’ll be reminded of that sacred moment when your name—and your life—changed for eternity.