What if I dont change my name with the SS office?

Not sure how it is in every state, but the marriage license isn't what changes your name (in FL), it simply says you're married and provides a valid reason for changing it after.

I didn't change my name until about a month and a half after my wedding, but I simply added H's last name, so the only real pressing ones to change it on were my license and passport. Everything else has stayed the same, since that's still legally my name.

Funny - I was just thinking about all this...I believe there is a two year "time limit" from when your name changes to when you can get a new card - but I think you can still get one after that, there are just extra hoops you have to jump through.

In some states, if you don't do it within a certain amount of time after the wedding, it can still be done but costs.

Thanks Amy!! That was exactly my question!

Reenski, Okay, that makes since that the license doesn't change your name but gives the reason to...Great!!

Thanks ladies!!

I will add, if you plan on using a passport or traveling, make sure your IDs match. I've seen some brides want to use their married name on a honeymoon they are taking right after the wedding -- that won't fly (or cruise.)

Lena, look it up for your state. I've heard of people having to go to court to request that their name get changed because they waited too long.

Karen-Thanks im doing that right now just to verify

Guess I answered the question wrong..

I don't think there is a time limit. My mom has been using her married name on all documents and license and bank since my parents were married in 1975. She changed her name at the social security office last month (38 years later) because she never got around to it lol.

@Lauren, it's possible that back then (1975) the requirements for changing your name on items were more lenient -- nowadays, with identity theft and terrorism and whatnot, you can't change your DL without first going through SS, tax returns could be held up by a name issue, etc.

For any future brides, best bet is to check with your state as to a time limit, but be aware that things do need to be done in a certain order with our current state of affairs, to make sure you are who you are and that you aren't trying to hide something with a name change, etc.

Just want to make sure I'm reading this right... you have to change your name with the SS office FIRST, then you can go about changing it on your driver's license and everything else?

But, you can still get your marriage license without changing your name with the SS office first, right?

You can't change your name at all until you are married, certified copy of marriage license in hand.

Check out this site for help with the process: WWW.bridekit.com

Ahh thank you!

How do you ADD FH's name instead of changing?

When you fill out the forms, you put his last name after yours in the last name box.