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The Pros' Guide to Changing Your Last Name After the Wedding

Everything you need to know about changing your last name post-nuptials in the state of Washington.

September 13, 2024

Washington Fun Fact: “The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) does not allow middle name changes,” notes Colie. “So, if you’d like to change your middle name, you must either obtain a court order or update your US passport to your new married name before visiting the state’s DOL to obtain your new driver’s license.”

While planning the big day, your focus is mainly on event details, guest list and your ensemble. However, for anyone who has decided to change their name post-wedding, the “adventure” continues long after the vendors have been tipped and the relatives have departed. Going into the name change process for the first time, many newlyweds (understandably) have no idea what to expect.

Enter Colie Christensen, founder of NewlyNamed, a name change kit service designed to make officiating your new last name a breeze. Colie details the eight “places” brides and grooms must remember to change their names...

SOCIAL SECURITY

It’s important to begin by updating your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) by filling out Form SS-5, the application for a new social security card (can be done by mail or online). This step is foundational because your name officially and legally changes after it’s updated with the SSA and the IRS, making it possible to change your name everywhere else. However, it’s important to mention that even though your name is changed in the SSA’s system, you’ll still need to update it everywhere else to match.

“Once your name is updated with the SSA, other entities can reference it to confirm your new legal name,” explains Colie. This sets the stage for the next steps in the name change process. After updating your name with the SSA, the following locations typically require attention:

IRS: Changing your name with SSA will update your name with the Internal Revenue Service, however, it’s pertinent to note that you should wait about 10 to 14 days after you change your name with the SSA to file
your tax return.
U.S. PASSPORT: Apply for a new passport with your updated name. This usually requires submitting Form DS-11 along with supporting documents like your marriage certificate and current passport.
DRIVER’S LICENSE: Make a DMV appointment and bring a document with proof of your new name on it and your marriage license, as well as your new-license fee. Visit dol.wa.gov/driver-licenses-and-permits/
for more details.
VOTER REGISTRATION: Re-register to vote in the state of Washington – you can do this online eight or more days before an election. Learn more at olvr.votewa.gov.
VEHICLE TITLE REGISTRATION: Gather the original copy of your vehicle’s title (it cannot be a photocopy) or complete an affidavit of loss if you don’t have the title. Then, complete the Vehicle Title Application, which will ask you to provide proof of your name change, and then submit your documentation with a fee. Check out dol.wa.gov/vehicles-and-boats/ for more information.
PROFESSIONAL LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS: If you hold any professional licenses or certifications, such as a nursing license or teaching certificate, notify the issuing authority of your name change.
PERSONAL ACCOUNTS: Update your name with all personal accounts, including banks, credit unions, credit cards, investment accounts, frequent flyer programs and travel programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry.