Who to Notify When Changing Your Last Name

Planning Tips

Who to Notify When Changing Your Last Name

There’s a definite method to the bureaucratic madness of changing your last name: First get your marriage certificate, then visit the Social Security office, and finally make a stop at the DMV.

• The marriage certificate Remember applying for that marriage license? Revisit the scene to get a marriage certificate to set the name-change wheels in motion. Costs and turnaround times vary depending on how you apply. In Dane County, for instance, it costs $20 in person and through the mail, but online it’ll cost $45 and you’ll need access to a fax machine. Check with the appropriate county for more information.

• Social Security You can make the change at no cost at your local Social Security Administration office, which you can find at socialsecurity.gov or by calling 1.800.772.1213. A marriage certificate and a completed application form are required, as well as proof of your old name, like a photo ID (perhaps that driver’s license you’re about to trade in?).

• The DMV Motor on down to the nearest DMV service center (find it at dot.wisconsin.gov) with your marriage certificate, your new Social Security card, and any other proof of ID you can get your hands on. You’ll be rewarded for all that patience (and for shelling out $14) with a fresh license with a new photo to go with your new name.

• Everyone else You’ll want to spread the word about your name change to your banks, credit card companies, telephone provider, doctor’s offices, insurance companies, health clubs, and pretty much anyone who sends you important mail. Brides are often advised to wait until after the honeymoon to make the name change official. Changing the name on a plane ticket might prove costly, and having a different name on a passport and ticket could cause problems with airport security. Take the honeymoon with your maiden name—you’ll have a whole lifetime as the Mrs. to make up for it.

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