Wondering how to change your name in Maryland? Well, you’re in luck. The MissNowMrs name change experts have compiled this checklist to help you accomplish your name change with minimal hassle!
The Maryland Married Name Change Process
1. Social Security
The first step in your name change is to notify the Social Security Administration of your new married name. Complete the SS-5 form and decide whether you want to file it in-person or by mail. You will need to submit your driver’s license or U.S. passport and your certified marriage certificate.
Approximately 2 weeks after your form is process, your new SS card will arrive in the mail. Your new married name will show on the card, but your SS number will not change.
2. U.S. Passport
The second agency to apprise of your name change is the State Department. The status of your passport directs whether you complete the DS-11, DS-82 or the DS-5504 form. You can file the DS-11 and DS-82 by mail. But, the DS-5504 must be filed in-person at a Passport Agency.
When filing for your new name on your passport, include your completed form with a certified marriage certificate, two 2×2 photos, and the correct processing fee. You should receive your new passport in the mail approximately 5-6 weeks after filing your form. If you submitted your old passport in your filing, you will get it back with a hole punch through it.
3. Internal Revenue Service
The IRS is the last federal government office you need to update your name with. Fill out the IRS 8822 form and mail it to the Internal Revenue Service with a photocopy of your marriage certificate. While this form is not required, it ensures that the IRS has your married name on file when they issue tax returns. We think it’s well worth the peace of mind!
4. Maryland MVA
A visit to the MVA kicks off your Maryland state-level name change. This office must see your new SS card in your new married name to process your paperwork. So, be sure to budget at least 2 weeks into your name change timeline before you head to the MVA.
You will also need to bring your current driver’s license, certified marriage certificate, and your Maryland vehicle registration card and title to have your name changed. The good news is, your new Maryland driver’s license will be issued the same day you apply for it.
*Heads up: if you are exchanging an out of state driver’s license, you will also need to bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate to the MVA.
5. Maryland Voter Registration
Updating your name on your voter registration account isn’t too difficult. Complete the Maryland Voter Registration Application in your new name. Then mail it to your County Board of Elections. This ensures you will be ready to vote in the next election.
6. The Million Other Entities
As you finish the state and federal name change gauntlet, the creditor process begins. Every entity that sends you mail, and every company you have an account with, needs to be notified of your new married name.
Start with your employer, banks, professional license boards, and mortgage providers. Most of them will need you to file a name change form in-person, and will need to see either your certified marriage certificate or your new SS card.
Next, notify your credit cards, insurance providers, utilities, medical providers, student loan providers, memberships, and frequent flyer accounts. Typically, these companies will allow you to change your name over the phone, or with a mail-in form. Once you’ve updated all of these groups, your name change is official!
7. Maryland Name Change Solution
Now that you know the structure for how to change your name in Maryland, are you feeling a sense of dread? If so, we can help! Join over 500,000 newlyweds who have used the MissNowMrs name change app or online service to save 13 hours of name change drama!