Comment on I'd like to change my last name and want suggestions
fuzzywombat@lemmy.world 2 days ago
Just something you should be aware, getting your name changed could be a royal pain in the butt and takes a long time, fair bit of money and a lot of patience. I recently went through the process and it’s a quite the journey. First thing you need to get is a signed paper from a judge in your state. Here are the list of things you have to do afterwards. There are some dependencies so you may not be able to get them done simultaneously. Social security card and state drivers license are the two most important and everything else comes afterwards.
- Social Security Card - Depending on your location, an appointment could take few months.
- Driver’s License - In my state it doesn’t require appointment to get a name change however if you’re upgrading to Real ID then it may require an appointment. Appointment could several weeks to several months depending on your state.
- Car registrations
- Car titles - This could cost some money
- Car insurance
- Passport and Passport Card - This could take some time and may cost some money depending on your situation. travel.state.gov/…/change-correct-passport.html#a…
- Your employer
- If you own a company then there may be some paperwork to be done.
- If you are renting then you’ll need to talk to your landlord or property manager
- If you own a house you might need to talk to your city
- Utility (Electricity, Gas, Internet, Mobile, etc.)
- Health/Life insurance
- Property insurance
- Voting registration
- Bank Accounts - This require new drivers license as ID
- Credit Cards - Same as above.
- Investment accounts (Broker, 401K, IRA)
- Local public library card
- Memberships like AAA, Costco, AARP, etc.
YawningNostalgia@thelemmy.club 1 day ago
Damn that is a long list. First thought is thank you for taking the time to type it out, second thought is how crazy it is that married women just quietly swallow this additional burden. Saving this comment.
rainbowbunny@slrpnk.net 1 day ago
I’ve known people who’ve gone through the process. It’s really a one step at a time thing and not as overwhelming as it sounds. A good resource though
fuzzywombat@lemmy.world 1 day ago
No problem. The list was very easy to make since I just went through the process. Yes I agree that it’s crazy that practically every married women have to slog through the gauntlet of bureaucracy. I’m genuinely surprised I haven’t heard more complaints from married women about it.
I hope I haven’t discouraged you from going through the steps of changing your name. Social Security Card and Driver’s License are the two that takes some time and effort but it’s all down hill after that. Everything else is just tedious and not difficult at all. When you eventually hold your new documents with your new name in your hands, it will be well worth it. I won’t spoil it for you but you’ll feel it. Good luck!