This is one area I can help in:
I started at SS office to get name changed on card - you will need CERTIFIED Copy of Marriage license
Take NEW SS card to DMV and change DL
Credit cards most can simply be changed with a phone call to number on back of card for customer service. Some request that you send a written request and copy of marriage license.
Mail I just told Postmaster but I als live in small town
Car loan I called and had to send copy of marriage license.
Bank- I had to bring in copy of marriage license and sign new signature card with new last name.
Marriage License: You can't change anything else without it. This may be the first time in your life you're thankful for government slowness -- the three-or-so weeks it takes to get your license in the mail will give you a much-needed break from the task master. But once it arrives, you'll want to get on the case right away and start your life as Mrs. so-and-so.
Driver's License: Your primary form of identification, your driver's license is the document to update next. You'll have to go down to your nearest DMV with your certified marriage certificate, your old license and, to be safe, any other ID you have lying around. While you're there, have your car title and registration changed as well. This will likely involve standing in another long line, so bring a fat book to read.
Social Security Card: Download a replacement application form from
www.ssa.gov/online/ss-5.html, fill it out, and mail it in to the supplied address or take it to your local SSA office. Social Security won't process the request without original documents in your old and new name. If you don't feel comfortable parting with the real things even temporarily (they will mail stuff back), definitely take it down to the SSA office yourself.
IRS: Taken care of when you do Social Security.
Passport: Visit
www.travel.state.gov and find the Passport Amendment/Validation Application, Form DS-19. Fill it out and send it to your nearest passport agency -- the same site has the addresses of all passport agencies -- along with certified documentation of your name change (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree with your new name) and your current, valid passport. Your documentation will be returned to you with your amended passport.
Voter Registration: Call your local registrar of voters and have them send or fax you a name-change form. Be sure to ask what proof of ID is required, as this varies from state to state. If you're so inclined, go to their offices in person and get it over with.
To amend your name in everybody else's database -- the bank, employment/payroll, insurance policies, hospitals, subscriptions, credit cards, phone company and other utilities, post office, property records, creditors, and organizations of which you're a member -- type up a letter with the respective proper information on it (your name, account number, social security number or any other reference they'll need, address and new name) and include a copy of your marriage license. Note that all changes are free. But if you'd rather shell out a few bucks for the convenience, there are kits on the market that have all the instructions and forms you'll need to change your name.
I personally would not recommend a name change kit but it's your choice. There is a checklist on one of wedding websites but of course I can't find it now.
Perhaps its easier now in this age of technology - back when I got married (17 years ago) you had to either go to your creditors in person, or call on the phone. Nightmarish, if I recall.
