questions & answers

Question: My husband and I were married in 2008 on our marriage license I have his last name but I never officially started using it. I now want to have his last name. How do I go about that process. I was wondering if I have to petition the courts for a change of name since it has been so long or just take my marriage license into the social security office and have it done?

Answer: In order to have a name change recognized after a marriage there are several things that you must do. First, obtain a copy of your marriage license. Then, fill out the appropriate forms and visit the Social Security Office to receive a social security card with your new last name. The necessary forms may be found here: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf Next, you will need to change your name on your driver’s license. For this you will need to go into the Department of Motor Vehicles Office. Be prepared to show your marriage license, your old and new social security cards, and car registration. Finally, you will need to notify all relevant parties of the name change. This may include but is not limited to: employers, schools, post office, Department of Vital Records (for purposes of birth or death certificates), banks, utility companies, voting registrar, passport office, Veteran’s Administration, etc.