How Do You Go About Changing Your Name?

You'll need to legally change your name with the Social Security Administration and with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles once you have your marriage certificate. You should also notify various organizations and businesses (as well as family and friends) of the change. Be sure to ask your county clerk about the specific laws governing your area. In addition, update your information with the following agencies as they apply:

• Employers
• Banks, stockbrokers, credit card companies
• Post office, utility companies
• Voter registration, US State Department (passport services)
• Mortgage/deed/lease companies, insurance companies

Does this sound too time-consuming? Purchase a name-change kit that includes computer software and/or printed forms that can make notifying all of the correct agencies easier.