Surname Decision

• As a new bride, you can take your husband's last name or blend your maiden name with your husband's last name. Alternately, you can both decide on a completely new name, or he can take your name. Decide which route you want to take.
  
  

Social Security

• Your first name change should occur with the Social Security office, because they need to have the correct name on file for payroll tax withholding and Social Security benefits. Upon approval, they will issue you a new Social Security card, which will in turn your name change easier to achieve with other institutions because you can use the card as proof of the name change. The Social Security office will automatically notify the Internal Revenue Service of your name change.
  
  To change your name with the Social Security office, you must show your marriage certificate and proof of your identity and U.S. citizenship or immigration status. The documents must be originals. You can take or mail them to your local Social Security office.
  
  

Driver's License

• Contact your local driver's license office to have your new name reflected on your driver's license. Contact your state's department of motor vehicles, and follow their requirements for changing a name, which vary between states. While applying for the name change, have your vehicle registration changed to show your new name.
  
  

Employer

• Let your employer know of your name change. Show him a copy of your new Social Security card and/or your driver's license so your paychecks can reflect your new name, making it easier for you to cash them. Also ask that your new name be reflected on your employer benefits, such as retirement plans, health benefits and life insurance.
  
  

Other Considerations

• Change your name with the following individuals or institutions, if they apply: the bank, mortgage company, landlord, credit card companies, utility companies, department store accounts, the passport agency, the post office, the voter registration board and insurance companies. Each will have different requirements to complete your name change, but having a new license and Social Security card will help. If you have legal documents such as a living will, contracts or power of attorney, contact your attorney so he can make the necessary name change to them.