Not everyone changes their last name after they get married, but for those who are planning on it, here’s a free guide to make your name-change experience a little easier.  There are many kits that people sell online for about twenty bucks, but to be honest you can figure our how to change your name for free.  Here’s some more advice and a checklist for you.

Ways to Change Your Name

Nowadays, many women are choosing not to change their last names after they get married, many women will freely change their last name without a problem. What about the in-between wives?  There are several options and ways to incorporate both your maiden name and your new last name.  You can hyphenate, which seems to be the most well-know way to do it: FIRST MIDDLE LAST-MAIDEN or even FIRST MIDDLE MAIDEN-LAST.  The most widely growing popular way to do this, especially without having a long last name is to change your middle name to your maiden name: FIRST MAIDEN LAST.  However, for those how don’t want to completely off their middle name, another option is to have everything: FIRST MIDDLE MAIDEN LAST, this is like having your maiden name as a second middle name.

Things to Think About Before Your Change Your Name

You may want to keep your maiden name, but have your husband’s name as well.  There are several things to think about when making this decision.  One thing is your career, for example if you are a well established doctor or author, you need to think about what happens to your previous publications all with your maiden name on them.  Another factor is your children, if you choose to keep your maiden name, you should discuss with you beau what your children’s last name will be.  Finally, think about the sound of your new name, try saying it aloud many times and having other people say it to you.  The sound of your new name may help you make a decision as to how you would like to change your name.

Checklist

There are many things to keep track of when changing your name.  To ease your experience, here is an extensive check-off list of places to make sure that your new name is changed.  While your at it, don’t forget to change your address if you need to as well.

• Social Security
• IRS
• U.S. Passport
• U.S. Postal Service
• Driver’s License
• Voter Registration
• Bank Notification Letter
• Credit Card Notification Letter
• Mortgage Notification Letter
• Utility Notification Letter
• Medical Notification Letter
• Insurance Notification Letter
• Professional License Notification Letter
• Investment Notification Letter
• Other Notifications
• Certified Marriage Certificate(s)

Enjoy your name changing experience.  If you’re not ready to change your name right after you get married, you should take some time until your ready.  People wait months, or even years after their wedding before they change their name because it’s a big commitment and a huge change in your everyday life.  Enjoy your transition from being a Ms. to a Mrs.

Image via Variety Silk House.