How to Change Your Name After Marriage: A Missouri Guide

General Steps to Change Your Name After Marriage

1. Obtain Your Marriage Certificate: Ensure you have multiple certified copies of your marriage certificate, which you’ll need to prove your name change
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Notify Relevant Institutions: Update your name with your bank, employer, insurance companies, utility companies, and other institutions.
6. 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 Name Change in Missouri

Before you change your name on your Missouri driver’s license or with most other agencies, you’ll need to update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA). To do this, complete Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) and submit it along with your certified marriage certificate, proof of identity (such as your current driver’s license or passport), and proof of U.S. citizenship if it is not already on file.

You can either mail the completed form and original or certified documents to your local SSA office or visit in person, depending on current SSA procedures.

How to Change Your Name on Your Missouri Driver’s License

After your Social Security record has been updated, you can change your name on your Missouri driver’s license. To do this, visit a Missouri license office in person and bring your current driver’s license, a certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order, and any additional identification required by the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR). In many cases, the DOR may also verify that your name has been updated with the SSA, so it’s safest to complete the Social Security step first.

Change Your Name in Your 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.

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.

Complete weddings + Events – Columbia, MO

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!