Name Change after Marriage? 5 Reasons Why Creating is the New Cool

One of the most important decisions when getting married is the name change. In a tradition that goes back for centuries, the bride normally takes up their partner’s last name. While most couples still conform to this tradition, many others have taken other routes. 

There’s no limit to the name change options you have after marriage from hyphenation, name-blending, maiden name as the middle name to the husband taking the bride’s name among others. However, one unique and innovative way to go about this name change business is the creation of a new name. It is not the most common option but there are many reasons to opt for this name change technique after marriage. 

1. Wider Range Of Names 

When you opt to create a new last name after marriage, you have a clean slate on which to use your imagination. There’s no limit to your creativity as long as the name you form has some meaning to your marriage.  

There’s no pressure on what to pick because it is all about you without having to meet the expectations of both families and friends. Whether you opt to blend parts of your names to form a new name or pick a unique name, you can get away with anything. 

2. The Easiest Way Out

In today’s dynamic society, many traditions have become obsolete though some families still uphold them. In such a situation, it is not easy for partners to agree on the best name after marriage. 

Many partners disagree on the name change before the wedding which can raise unnecessary tension.  At a time when a couple should be celebrating, there’s a big risk of fighting over a name. Creating a new name can solve this and also overcome resistance from either family. 

If a couple discovers a name change risks causing disagreements during the nuptials, creating a new name is an innovative way out of this jam. It is not difficult to come up with a name that reflects a couple’s wishes and aspirations. The new name can creatively even pay homage to both families by the inclusion of parts of the partners’ names.

3. Marking a Fresh Start 

Getting married is one of the most momentous decisions anyone can make in life. After joining to become a family, you need a new name that aptly captures your new spirit. Many couples stick to old family names which they would rather drop but can’t due to societal pressure. 

If you want to mark this milestone in style, it is time to sit down and come up with a unique name. It marks a fresh start as a couple and gives you the determination to make your marriage work. 

4. Setting the Grounds for Shared Responsibilities 

People go into marriage for love and companionship. It is a collaborative effort where the bride and groom promise to always stand by each other. Traditionally, this system has always been skewed to favor one partner right from the name change process. 

You can change this by opting to create a new name after marriage. This means you both share in the name making process which reflects how you want to live as a couple. Both partners will participate in the tedious name change process and get a sense of ownership of the new name. If you use a last name change service, the process becomes even easier as these professionals handle all the paperwork. 

In most other name change situations, it is the woman who has to do the heavy work in the name change process. By going for a collaborative name change, you will both make sacrifices and this lays a solid foundation for the marriage you want. 

5. Ideal For Same-Sex Couples 

Marriage in modern times has changed drastically and the legal name change process has to adapt fast. In 2015, The U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriages in all 50 states. Many same-sex couples would like a new legal name for their family and kids. One of the best ways to satisfy both partners and their families is by coming up with a new name that carries elements of both partners’ names. 

Some couples also opt for a totally unique name to break from heteronormativity. Others go for names that hint at their freedom of choice or forward-thinking outlook to life. 

Final Thoughts 

Ready to say, “I do?” Well, there’s that big decision you have to make about the name change. It can cause a lot of tension and discord but this doesn’t have to be so. By choosing to create your own last name, you overcome multiple challenges that would otherwise sully this beautiful moment.

 

 

A Comprehensive checklist to simplify Name Change after Divorce

A divorce is one of the most traumatizing experiences in life though it offers a new chance to start afresh. If you have decided to get a divorce, one of the things you should consider is a name change after the process. A name change is a legal process and you have to think throughout it carefully.

After a divorce, a name change offers a break from the past and also opens new relationship opportunities. If you had opted to legally change your name after marriage and the union didn’t work, you should focus on the better things to come. By changing back to your maiden name or opting for any other last name, you also emancipate yourself from the past.

Basics of Name Change After Divorce

There are several ways of effecting a name change after divorce:

1. Through the divorce filing procedure: You can include a name change request in your divorce papers. The judge will include the name change clause in the divorce decree. You will need this document to effect the name change.
2. Amendment to the divorce decree: If you had not included the name change request, some states allow applications to amend the divorce decree. The judge will consider the request and include a name change order in the divorce decree.
3. Filing a name change petition: If it is not possible to file an amendment to the divorce decree, you can opt to file a name change petition. You have to file the paperwork required and wait for a judge to hear your petition like in any other name change process. The judge will issue a name change order if they agree with your request.

It is advisable to confirm your state’s name change after divorce requirements.

Checklist for a Name Change After Divorce

Once you have received a name change order, here’s your name change checklist after divorce:

1. Social security card: You need a new social security card after a legal name change. Visit the local social security office with the correct social security card, proof of identity (U.S. driver’s license, certified copy of the name change order/decree, State-issued non-driver’s identification card or U.S. passport), proof of U.S. citizenship (U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or Certificate of Naturalization/ Citizenship).
2. Driver’s license (at the local DMV): You need to apply for a new driver’s license by visiting the local DMV offices. For this, carry the new social security card or the application slip, certified copy of the name change order/decree, proof of identity, proof of your citizenship and proof residency (bank statements, mortgage, rental documents or utility bills)
3. New passport: After a divorce, you will apply for a new passport by going to the state’s website and filling out form DS-82 (for a passport issued more than one year ago) or DS-5504 (for a passport issued less than one year ago). You will attach a certified copy of the name change order/decree, proof of your citizenship, and color passport photo.
4. Notifications: You will need to send notifications about the name change to individuals, institutions and any other parties who normally communicate with you. Your notification letters must include a certified copy of the name change order. Such notifications should go to:

• Bank and other financial accounts
• Credit cards providers
• Mortgages/deeds
• Insurance providers (Renter’s insurance, Car insurance, Health insurance, Life insurance)
• Utilities companies
• Will & other legal contracts
• Club memberships
• Subscription services 
• Family doctor and attorney 
• School/ alumni
• Employer including payroll, union and retirement plans
• Voter registration office

Hassle-Free Name Change after Divorce

Looking at the name change process after divorce, it looks tedious and complicated. It is not something you want to start doing right after the physically and emotionally draining divorce process. You can now avoid all this hassle by using an online name change service.

This is a company that provides all the details you need about the name change including all forms required. Depending on the package you buy, they can complete the files for you and send them to respective recipients.

Once you provide your personal details, the company does the rest. While you still need to visit the local DMV and social security offices, you will take a fully completed form which saves you a lot of time. It is a smart way to go through your name change checklist without breaking a sweat.

Final Thoughts

If you plan to file a divorce, take time to learn more about the name change requirements in your state. This checklist will guide you through the complex process by providing all the steps you should follow.