Michigan
Name change
after marriage
How to change names after marriage, Michigan
Congratulations! You’re married and have decided to take your spouse’s surname! The not-so-great news… it can take weeks to get all your accounts and records changed over to your new name yourself.Â
Our service saves the hassle of contacting each company to verify their process! Our ready-to-send forms, letters and emails means you save hours of tedious administration! Â
Even better – you only need your marriage certificate to get started! Simply attach it to our personalized notifications and send! You’ll still need to visit the DMV and most banks in person, but our instructions and hacks will save hours!
Michigan residents must apply in the county where either party resides. If you are out of state, apply in the county where you will get married.
Each county has a different ordering system, so check their website for options like online ordering, walk-ins and appointments. Both parties must present the documents below, or accepted alternate documents listed on your county’s website:
- federal or state photo ID
- birth certificate
- Proof of SSN
- Payment (typically $20 – $30)
Wedding licenses are valid from 3 days after issue and for the next 30 days after.
Once the completed marriage license has been filed with the county recorder, newlyweds can order a certified copy of the marriage certificate from the county clerk.
Check the county website where the marriage license was filed for ordering processes. Most counties offer walk-in service, some have online and mail service. Expect to pay about $15 for the first certificate and $5 for additional certificates.
Most agencies will only allow you to change your name to what is currently recorded with the SSA. Ensure the SSA has updated your name before changing names with the DMV. Complete and return form SS5 ‘Application for a Social Security Card’, included in your Easy Name Change kit. The SSA updates their records within 2-3 days of receiving your request. There is no fee.
Once you have the official marriage certificate, start your name change with the SSA online. Visit https://www.ssa.gov/personal-record/change-name and answer a few questions. Some customers may have their marriage and identity verified online and a new card will be sent.
If you can’t be digitally verified, you will be instructed to complete your name change in person at an SSA office. The site will instruct the original proof documents you need to take based on your situation.
Attend a Secretary of State office in person. You can walk-in or make an appointment online. Take the following documents with you:
- Updated driver’s license
- vehicle title
- vehicle registration or plate number
- original marriage certificate
- Payment for the $15 title fee
If the vehicle has multiple owners, all owners must be present at the SOS office for the change, or an Appointment of Agent form can be completed in advance.
If either your passport was issued more than 12 months ago, or you were married more than 12 months ago, you will need to order a new passport and no credit is provided for unused time in your current passport.Â
Complete form DS-82 and pay full renewal fees ($130 book or $30 card)
We recommend using the US Passports online application tool to ensure you are completing the current form. You will be guided through the questions.Â
If both your passport issue date and wedding was within 12 months of application then complete form DS-5504 for a free passport replacement.
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Ready to send forms & letters
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Ready to forward emails
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Personalized checklist & guide
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Instant download
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Priority printed and posted to your door
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Handy folder & all envelopes
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3 stamped envelopes
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INFORMATION HUB
Marriage Name Change
All you need is your marriage certificate. Some places must be updated in person, some need you to send a request in writing. We explain what to send where.
If you have the legal right to permanently reside in the USA you can change names here too. There’s no special ‘registration’ of your new name, just start using it! Use our ready to send notifications to update your records.
You can take your spouse’s surname even if you were married overseas. Apply for your official foreign marriage certificate, then attach to our notifications and send.
There are different forms to use depending on when your passport was issued. Follow the links to download the form you need.
Make the SSA your first priority! Start the process online. You may be directed to complete the name change in person at an SSA location. Once your name change is confirmed send off all other notifications.
It’s not always as black and white as your surname or your spouse’s surname. You have a few more options. The same name change options are available to either spouse.
Even if you’re planning to change names, we recommend using your existing name and signature. While you can use your new name immediately, it’s best to keep your name and signature consistent with the wedding license application.
Religious vs government marriage certificate? You may need to order your official certificate from the county clerk as not all organizations accept a religious certificate.
It is possible to keep your maiden name as a middle name but you should first be aware of your state’s law. You may need to state your preferred name when filing for your wedding license.
Follow our three married name change tips for the fastest and smoothest name change possible! We provide the low down on checklists, proof documents and planning.
Want to do your own name change research and paperwork? Create your beautiful & personalized checklist with all the companies you may need to notify from our extensive database!
