Social Security Administration
Start the name-changing process with a new social security card, which will come in handy when you approach other agencies and organizations to change your name. Send in form SS-5 and a certified copy of your marriage certificate. The service is free and your certified copy will be returned.

Internal Revenue Services
After you have changed your name with the Social Security Administration, the IRS will automatically update their records. However, if you have also changed your address, you will need to send in form 8822 to avoid tax return delays.

Passport Agency
If your name has been legally changed due to marriage within one year from the date of issuance of your passport, mail in form DS-5504, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, 2 new passport photos, and your current passport. The service is free and your certified copy will be returned. If your passport was issued more than one year after your marriage or has expired, use form DS-82 instead. The service costs $75. If your passport has been mutilated, altered, or damaged, you cannot apply by mail. You must apply in person.

Department of Motor Vehicles
Changing your name on your driver's license and vehicle registration can only be done in person at the DMV. Most states will require you to bring your old driver's license and a certified copy of your marriage certificate (some may also require your new social security card). Note that your name cannot be changed on your vehicle title. Visit DMV.org, choose your state of residence, and do a search for "name change" for more details.

Voter Registration
You can make this change while changing your name at the DMV. Be sure to ask if there is a separate form for it if you don't see the option on the DMV's name-change forms. If you'd like to acquire a voter registration name-change form online, do an Internet search for "[your state] voter registration name change" for the appropriate link.

Post Office
The USPS does not require that you report a name change. However, if you have also changed your address, have your mail forwarded to your new place by filling out the official change of address form. The service costs $1.

Utility Companies
The various utility companies, including gas, electric, water, sewer, phone, Internet, and cable, should be informed of your name change. Use this generic utility client name change notice form for each company and provide a photocopy of your marriage certificate. If more information is required, the company will contact you.

Financial Organizations
Your banks, credit cards, investment companies, retirement plan providers, and lenders need to be informed of your name change. Use this generic financial client name change notice form for each organization and provide a photocopy of your marriage certificate. If more information is required, the organization will contact you.

Health Care Providers
Your health care providers need to be informed of your name change. Use this generic medical record name change notice form for each provider and include a photocopy of your marriage certificate. If more information is required, the provider will contact you.

Miscellaneous
Don't forget to inform your employer, attorney, accountant, and town clerk/building management of your name change. If you belong to any professional associations or recreational clubs, use this generic name change notice form to update them. If you are a student, contact your school's administrative office. Click here for a handy checklist that will help you keep track of everything.

Other Things to Remember
• Purchase checks and return address labels with your new name on them.
• Update your will and other contracts.
• Practice your new signature!

Ordering Print-Outs
If you don't have the time or means to print out the forms yourself, you can order print-outs from us. $15 will cover everything, including shipping and handling.