Although there is no law requiring a name change after marriage , the practice continues to be common in the United States—and not only for women.
What happens if you don't change your last name after marriage?
There's no civil or criminal penalty for not changing your name. But various DMVs may claim to impose a fine for not changing the name on your driver's license within 30 days or thereabouts.
Is it necessary to change surname after marriage?
Although there is no law requiring a name change after marriage , the practice continues to be common in the United States—and not only for women.
Are you legally married if you don't change your name?
No, you don't have to change your name . It's not mandatory. It's optional. Thinking otherwise is an unfounded concern or assumption.
Does a woman last name automatically change after marriage?
You've taken the plunge and perhaps decided to either take your spouse's last name or create your own last name with your partner after the wedding. ... Since your name does not change automatically when you get married , you have to make sure you follow all the necessary legal steps to changing your name after the wedding.
Can I use both maiden and married name?
In most states, you have the option to take your spouse's last name, hyphenate your last names, use two last names without a hyphen, or move your maiden name to your middle name and take your spouse's last name. We think it's important that you know all of the name change options before your big day.
How long do you have to change your name after getting married?
FAQ. How long do you have to change your name after getting married? You have as long as you want to change your name after getting married. While many states prefer that you notify them that you've changed your name within 30 days after your wedding, you'll still be allowed to change your name even if you wait.
How much does it cost to change your last name after marriage?
When you file your name change forms, you'll have to pay the California state filing fee. The California name change cost is $435 .
Can I have 2 last names?
The use of double surnames is legal but not customary . Children traditionally take on their father's surname (or, more recently, optionally their mother's). ... Either spouse or both can take a double name. Based on a family's foreign name tradition, children can get surnames also based on a grandparent's surname.
What needs to be changed after marriage?
- Your Social Security card. If you've changed your name, this should be your first stop. ...
- Your driver's license. ...
- Your credit union/bank account information. ...
- Your payroll information. ...
- Your life insurance and retirement accounts. ...
- Your insurance policies. ...
- Your creditors.
How much does it cost to change your last name?
When you file your name change forms, you'll have to pay the California state filing fee. The California name change cost is $435 . You might also have to pay a small surcharge depending on what county you're in. If you can't afford the filing fee, you may be able to apply for a waiver.
Can I keep my previous married name if I remarry?
You could decide to maintain your prior spouse's name, hyphenate prior maiden or prior spouse and new spouse, or even return to your maiden name. You must decide what works best for you and agree on the way forward with your future spouse about name changes.
Can I use my maiden name legally?
Brette's Answer: You can use your maiden name at any time you want . To change it on legal documents such as a driver's license, Social Security card, or passports though you need a court order, which usually happens in your divorce decree. What name you use has no impact on bills or settlement.
Can you travel with your old passport after name change?
US Citizens: United States Citizens who change their name due to marriage, divorce, or because of any other circumstance may travel using your United States passport or other Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative approved document in your prior name provided you bring proof of your name progression such as; a marriage ...
Who needs to be notified when you change your name?
You'll want to notify the U.S. Postal Service, your employer, insurers and your doctors . Again, simply showing these various parties your marriage certificate and updated driver's license should be sufficient to get them to record the change.
How do you change your name after you get married?
- Get Your Marriage License and Certified Copies. ...
- Update Your Social Security Card. ...
- Get a New Driver's License. ...
- Get a New Passport and Travel Documents. ...
- Change the Name on Your Bank Accounts. ...
- Change the Name on Your Credit Cards. ...
- Provide Your New Name and Banking Information to Your Employer.
