Complete Guide to Updating Your Name After Marriage

If you’re planning to change your last name, there’s a lot to consider, and it can feel like entering uncharted territory. The process can seem overwhelming, but services like “Newly Named” are a lifesaver, offering guidance every step of the way. They not only prepare everything ready for you, including a comprehensive checklist of what needs to be changed, but also provide helpful items like envelopes with stamps already affixed for important notifications.

First things first, you’ll need to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, voter registration, and passport—these are crucial to ensure your identification reflects your new name accurately. Don’t forget to notify your employer, update your email signature to align with your new identity, and get new business cards if needed to maintain a professional image.

At home, you’ll need to inform your landlord or mortgage company about the change, as well as contact your insurance providers and utility companies to ensure no disruption of services.

On a personal level, you’ll want to update legal documents, alumni offices, doctors’ offices, and even your magazine subscriptions to reflect your new name. Don’t overlook your financial accounts—credit cards, checking and savings accounts, 401ks, and loans all need to be updated to avoid any confusion in your financial dealings.

And of course, make sure to update your name on your social media profiles like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter, as these platforms play a significant role in personal branding today. It’s also wise to notify friends and family about your name change, as they can help spread the word and ensure everyone is aware of your new identity.

Tying up these loose ends after your wedding might seem like a lot, but it’s all part of starting your new life together. Take it one step at a time, and soon enough, everything will be in place.

The Newly Named Process In Order of Importance

• # 1 Social Security Card: Update your name with the Social Security Administration. Schedule an appointment (link attached to this card).
• # 2 Driver’s License: Make an appointment with the DMV to update your driver’s license, voter registration, car title, and car registration (link attached to this card).
• # 3 Passport: Apply for a new U.S. passport with your updated name (link attached to this card).
• Employer/Payroll: Notify your employer, update payroll records, update your email accounts and signature, and order new business cards.
• Credit Cards, Loans & Bank Accounts: Update your checking and savings accounts, your name on all credit cards and Update any auto or student loans.
• Landlord/Mortgage: Inform your landlord or mortgage company of your name change.
• Insurance: Update auto, home, life, and health insurance policies.
• Utilities: Update your name with electric, gas, water, phone, internet, and cable providers.
• Legal Documents: Update your living will and power of attorney.
• 401ks & IRAs: Notify your retirement account providers.
• Doctors’ Offices: Notify your doctors of your name change.
• Social Media: Update your name on your personal emails, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.
• Rewards Programs & Subscriptions: Update your name on any store rewards programs and subscriptions to websites.