How to Change Your Name After Getting Married in California

Changing your name is a legal procedure.

Getting married is exciting. The idea of living your life with the person you love is full of romance. However, if you take your husband�??s name, you need to change your name with the appropriate government agencies. For tax purposes, as well as those of Social Security, the name registered with the state needs to match the name on your license and Social Security card. After all, you don�??t want your state tax refund held up because the state thinks you are two different people.

Instructions

1. Obtain a valid copy of your marriage license. The paper received on your wedding day is not a valid license. Your clergyman or justice of the peace files the proper forms with the county clerk, who then registers the marriage. You can obtain a legal copy of your license from the clerk of court's office in the county in which you were married.

2. Download the Form SS-5 from the Social Security website and fill it out. Alternately, call social security's automated phone system at 800-772-1213 to order the form and have it mailed to you.

3. Make an appointment at your local Social Security office. To find your local office, click on the "Find a Social Security Office" tab on the Social Security website homepage. It will ask you to enter your zip code and then open a results page showing the nearest office(s). Social Security's automated phone service, 800-772-1213, can also be used to locate the nearest office(s).

4. When you go to your appointment, you will need to have a valid driver's license or identification card and your marriage license. Social Security will mail you a card with your new name. You will still have the same social security number, though.

5. Make an appointment at the California DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles). You can make an appointment online at the DMV website or use their automated phone service at 800-777-0133.

6. When you get to the DMV, you will be required to fill out the Driver's License or Identification Card Application Form DL 44. Alternately, you can call the DMV's automated telephone service at 800-777-0133 and have the form mailed to you. You must use an original form; it cannot be downloaded. To process the form, the DMV will need to see your current license or ID and your marriage certificate. The California DMV will verify this information with Social Security.

7. Inform your employer of your name change. Otherwise, they will continue to issue your paycheck as well as file your taxes and Social Security under your maiden name.

References

• Social Security
• California Department of Motor Vehicles

Resources

• Social Security Form SS-5
• Schedule a California DMV Appointment