Congratulations on your union in the enchanting landscapes of Wisconsin! Whether your vows were exchanged under the tranquil shadows of Door County or amidst the vibrant heartbeat of Milwaukee, transitioning to your new name in Wisconsin is a journey that can take some time. Start this beautiful journey by securing a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the respective county clerk where your union was solemnized. Then, with warmth and anticipation, visit the Social Security Administration to reflect your new identity on your Social Security card. Your next sweet step is to the Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles to embrace your new name on your driver’s license. And, with a gentle reminder, don’t forget to share your new identity with banks, credit card companies, and other significant entities. For more guidance and a wealth of information on embracing your new name, www.missnowmrs.com is here to support you. Here’s to embracing new beginnings and savoring every moment in the charming embrace of Wisconsin! Warm wishes on this delightful journey!
The Wisconsin Name Change Process
The Social Security Administration
The beginning of your name change project starts with the Social Security Administration. You will need to file the SS-5 form along with your certified marriage certificate and either your Wisconsin driver’s license or your U.S. passport. Fortunately, this office does not charge a processing fee for name change!
Two to three weeks after your form is filed, your new SS card will arrive in the mail. The card will reflect your new married name, but your SSN will stay the same. One less thing to memorize!
The State Department
Then, it is time to change your name with the State Department. They have three different forms for you to complete, based on your passport status. The forms are the DS-11, the DS-82, and the DS-5504. After choosing and completing the appropriate form, file it with your current passport, your certified marriage certificate, two passport photos, and the listed processing fee.
U.S. passports typically take 5-6 weeks to be processed and issued. So, it is important to take any upcoming international travel into account before filing to change your name on your passport.
The Internal Revenue Service
Filing the IRS 8822 form is a very smart (but not required) idea. This form is free to file, and guarantees the IRS has your married name on file when they issue tax returns. Simply fill out the form, add a photocopy of your marriage certificate, and pop it in the mail. Then check the Internal Revenue Service off your list!
The Wisconsin DMV
To change your name with the Wisconsin DMV, you will need to wait for your new SS card in your new name to be issued. Once you have that, you can complete the Wisconsin license application form and head to the DMV office. Be sure to bring your current license, certified marriage certificate, two proofs of residence from the last 90 days. Your new license will be issued the same day you apply!
Heads up: If you are exchanging an out of state license, you will need to bring your U.S. passport or certified birth certificate to receive a Wisconsin license.
The Wisconsin Voter Bureau
Updating your name on your voter registration is the last on your list of government agencies. Complete the Wisconsin Voter Registration Application and mail it along with a photocopy of your new driver’s license to your municipal clerk.
Every Other Entity
As government filings end, creditor name change notifications begin. It is smart to start your name change with your banks and your employer. Both tend to want you to file in-person with either your new SS card or a marriage certificate. Next, update your name with your professional license boards, investment accounts, credit cards, mortgage providers, loan providers, medical providers, and insurance providers. Most of these companies will change your name over the phone or via a brief update form. The last step is to update your name on all of your memberships, subscriptions, and social media accounts.
The Wisconsin Name Change Solution
Stunned by how to change your name in Wisconsin? Save 13 hours on your name change using the MissNowMrs app or online service. No need to worry about filing the wrong form or missing a supporting document when you let MissNowMrs change your name!
