Video:How to Legally Change Your Name

Transcript:How to Legally Change Your Name

Taking the last name of your spouse after marriage is a long-running tradition that many people decide is right for them––and these days it's not always women taking the new name. Hyphens and hybrid last names have become increasingly popular––but no matter how or why you do it, if you decide to legally change your name, here's what you do.

Decide How You Want Your New Name to Appear

Changing your name after a legal marriage in the United States is a relatively simple process if you follow through on a few key steps. Start by deciding exactly how you want your new name to appear on all formal records moving forward. You can usually take your spouse's last name, middle name, or any combination of your and your spouse's last names.

First names generally aren't covered by the same process, nor are last name changes down the road, so be sure to choose carefully.

Prepare the Necessary Paperwork

Next, most states will require you to complete a marriage license application, where you will list your new name. After you tie the knot and the government-certified license comes back to you, go to the federal Social Security website and download a Form SS-5 for a new Social Security card. Take or mail your completed application, a copy of your marriage license, birth certificate or passport, and you'll be on your way.

The Same Process Applies After a Divorce

The same process works for changing a name after a divorce, too––you'll just need a copy of your divorce decree instead of a marriage license. Technically, at this point you're done, but you might also consider these other important changes.

Who to Contact About a Name Change

Getting a new drivers' license requires a trip to your local DMV, and offices vary in terms of the documentation you will need to provide. Be sure to contact you bank and credit cards for official name change requirements, and getting in touch with your employer is essential for changing W2 or other tax information. A trip to the post office will allow you to update your mailing address, as well as provide the opportunity to officially change your passport as well. You might also consider changing your email address, and any online social network sites where you spend any amount of time.

Use Your New Name

Don't forget to simply start using your new name whenever you introduce yourself, sign correspondence, or announce yourself at parties, "Mrs. Grossberg is in the house!"

Changing Your Name Without Marriage

If you're simply sick of being John or Sharon or Mrs. Dickerson or Mr. Dumas, there are legal options for changing your name to just about anything you want. Be sure to check with your local City Clerk's office for name change requirements specific to where you live, which may include competing a deed poll, a legal backer form, a notice of petition to the public, and other requirements.

Just remember that if you're on the lam or trying to trying to legally reinvent yourself, regardless of what you change your name to, most government offices will still know you as something like 190-34-0902. I'm Jonathon Stewart with About.com.