Changing your name after marriage is an exciting step, but it involves a series of legal and administrative tasks. Each state in the U.S. has specific requirements and processes for name changes. This guide provides a general overview and customizes instructions for how to change your name in Missouri after marriage.
General Steps to Change Your Name After Marriage
- Obtain Your Marriage Certificate: Ensure you have multiple certified copies of your marriage certificate, which you’ll need to prove your name change
- Update Your Social Security Card: Visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) website or local office. Fill out Form SS-5 and submit it along with your marriage certificate and ID.
- Change Your Driver’s License: Visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Bring your current driver’s license, certified marriage certificate, and any other required forms of identification.
- Update Your Passport: Complete Form DS-82 (for passport renewals) or DS-5504 (for name changes within one year of passport issuance). Submit it with your current passport, certified marriage certificate, and a passport photo.
- Notify Relevant Institutions: Update your name with your bank, employer, insurance companies, utility companies, and other institutions.
- Update Your Voter Registration: Depending on your state, you may need to complete a new voter registration form.
Instructions for Missouri
Below are customizable steps for Missouri, highlighting specific requirements and forms:
- Social Security Card: A Social Security name change in Missouri is crucial for updating your driver’s license and other documents. To change your name with the SSA, mail or bring Form SS-5, proof of name change, ID, and proof of citizenship to your local SSA office. This service is free, but remember to use original or certified copies of your documents.
- Passport: After a legal name change in Missouri, updating your passport is essential. The required form depends on the status of your current passport: use Form DS-5504 for passports issued less than a year ago, Form DS-82 for renewals, and Form DS-11 for new applications. Visit the US Department of State’s website for details, and remember that costs vary, with corrections being free and renewals or new applications starting at $130. Ensure your travel tickets match your passport name to avoid issues.
- Driver’s License: To change your name on a Missouri driver’s license, visit your local license office with proof of the name change (marriage certificate, court order, or updated Social Security card). If your ID is expiring within six months, you can get it renewed instead. The cost is $14 for a three-year duplicate or $20 for a six-year one. For more details, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue’s website or call your local office. Remember, a REAL-ID compliant card will require additional forms of ID starting in 2025.
Tips for a Smooth Name Change Process
- Plan Ahead: Start the process as soon as possible after your wedding to avoid delays in receiving important documents. Just note the timing of your honeymoon; if it’s right after your wedding, you won’t need to start the process until after the honeymoon!
- Keep Copies: Make copies of all forms and documents you submit for your records.
- Notify Important Contacts: Update your name with healthcare providers, subscription services, and any other entities that have your personal information.
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Changing your name after marriage can seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes the process more straightforward. By following the guidelines specific to your state, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new name. For more wedding inspiration visit our blog, Happy name-changing!