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 after marriage in St. Louis, MO.
General Steps to Change Your Name After Marriage in St. Louis, MO
- 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 St. Louis
Below are customizable steps for St. Louis, highlighting specific requirements and forms:
- Social Security Card: Changing your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) is a crucial first step for updating other documents like your driver’s license. Submit Form SS-5, proof of your name change (marriage certificate or court order), a valid ID, and proof of citizenship to your local SSA office. This service is free, but be sure to provide original or certified copies of your documents.
- Driver’s License: Next, change your name on your Missouri driver’s license by visiting your local license office. Bring proof of your legal name change (marriage certificate, court order, and/or updated Social Security card), and possibly additional documents like proof of birth and Missouri address. It costs $14 for a duplicate Class F license valid for three years or $20 for six years; check the Missouri DOR’s website for more details and call ahead to confirm requirements.
- Passport: After legally changing your name in Missouri, it’s important to update your passport as well. The process depends on the state of your current passport. You’ll need Form DS-5504 if your passport is less than a year old, Form DS-82 if it was issued within the last 15 years and is in good condition, or Form DS-11 for a new passport application. Required documents include your current passport, an original or certified name change document, and a color passport photo. Costs vary, with corrections being free and renewals costing $130 for a passport book. Remember, your travel tickets must match your passport name, so you might need an updated passport before traveling. For more details, visit the US Department of State’s website.
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 – St. Louis, 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!