How to change your last name: Broken down into 5 easy steps

Girl, Congratulations! You’re MARRIED! Now that you’re back from your honeymoon let’s talk about that name change process. Here is a 5 step by step guide on how to change your last name.

  1. Marriage License. When you drop your marriage license off at the City Counsel Building, go ahead and ask for 3-5 copies. The real deal with the raised seal type of copy. Bring Cash, mine cost $2 per copy.
  2. Social Security Card. Now that you have proof, head to the Social Security Office. I arrived 15 minutes before they opened on a Tuesday and was still 10th in line! Bring your current SSC, license, passport, and your marriage license. Fill out this form and print it out to save time! You can also mail the form with your SSC, but I wanted to go in person. You will receive a paper stating you applied for a new SSC and your new card will be mailed to you in 2 weeks.
  3. BMV. Please note: You cannot apply for a new SSC and get your new license the same day. I took the day off work thinking I would change everything in one day (face palm). Now that you have your SSC, go get dolled up for that new license photo! Bring all legal documents your BMV requires. In Indiana, I brought 2 pieces of mail addressed to me (in my maiden name), my license, SSC, W2, Passport, and marriage license. You will also be switching your title and registration.
  4. Bank. Now time to head to your local branch and change your banking information. You’ll receive new checks, debit cards, and credit cards. You can do this the same day you go to the BMV. I brought all documents listed above, but you really only need your new license and marriage license. You will want to simultaneously inform your employer/HR with your updated name to make sure you don’t have any issues when pay day comes around!
  5. Passport. This is the last step I took (3 months after visiting the social security office). First, find a post office that issues passports and takes photos. Once you’ve found one close to home, go online and make an appointment (not all branches require appointments). I suggest filling in the forms prior to save time. If you do not have access to a printer, no worries, they have the forms at the post office! FILL OUT THE FORM IN BLACK INK! I made the mistake of using blue ink and needed to resubmit. To download forms click here. If you are applying for your first passport ever fill out DS-11, if you previously have a passport in your maiden name it will be considered a renewal DS-82. Bring all necessary documents including your marriage license, current passport book, and B&W photo copies of your new license and current passport. My passport was not expiring for another 3 years, but I had to pay the renewal cost of $110 plus $26 for the photo and priority shipping. Don’t forget your check book! You will not be able to use cash or card for the $110 fee. It can take 6-8 weeks to receive your new passport in the mail. You will receive your old passport and marriage license back in the mail separately.

Now that you’re officially a MRS. and signing your name feels like forgery, it’s time to check off a few more name change items. See below for my complete list!

Stay Fearless,

Michelle Foster