Once you’ve been married and made the decision to change names it’s your responsibility to notify all necessary organisations of your new name. This includes getting your identification documents reissued and updating your accounts and memberships.
There are 2 parts to changing names. First, you need your marriage certificate from Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM). This is the only proof required to start using your new name, providing you take one of the standard married names. Taking your spouse’s surname after marriage is not a legal name change, you are simply assuming their name. Your birth certificate does not change and you can resume use of your former name at any time.
Contact every organisation where you hold identification, an account or membership. Ask what procedure to follow as each company is different! You may need to send a letter, form, email or follow a different process. Organisations will also have different requirements on what proof they need. Some may need to sight your original certificate or maybe you can mail in a photocopy or certified copy. You may also be asked for a certified photo ID.
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You’ll save a few bucks, but it will take weeks longer! Make a list of every organisation where you hold a record and set aside time to call each one to learn their process. You can use our free checklist builder so you don’t miss any companies. If possible, aim to do this on a mid-week morning when wait times aren’t so long. Some companies will send you their special name change forms, some will need you to send letters or emails. The research will take 5 to 6 hours, then allow another 2 or 3 hours to complete forms and write letters and emails. You’ll also need to head out with your marriage certificate and copies to get them certified.
No matter how you decide to get your research and paperwork done, follow these simple steps to start changing names: