Ready to learn how to change your name in Arkansas? The MissNowMrs name change experts created this 7 step guide save you time and stress as you navigate your name change with Arkansas state and government agencies.
The Arkansas Name Change Process
1. The Social Security Administration
The first document to begin changing your name on is your Social Security card. Fill out the SS-5 form and file it with your Arkansas driver’s license or U.S. passport and a certified copy of your marriage certificate. The processing fee is $0!
Within 2-3 weeks of filing, you will receive your new SS card in the mail. Your new married name will be on the card, but your SSN will stay the same.
2. The Internal Revenue Service
Changing your name with the IRS isn’t too complicated. Complete the IRS 8822 form and file it with a photocopy of your marriage certificate. There is no fee for this form, and it ensures that your tax returns will not be held while your maiden vs. married names are sorted out.
3. The State Department
The next step is changing your name on your U.S. passport. The State Department has three different forms, based on your passport status. They are the DS-11, the DS-82, and the DS-5504. After identifying and completing the appropriate form, file it with your current passport, your certified marriage certificate, two passport photos, and the listed processing fee.
Typically, U.S. passports take 5-6 weeks to be processed and issued. So, be sure to take any upcoming international travel into account, before changing your name on your passport. Airline companies will not allow you to travel under a name that is different from your current reservation.
4. Arkansas DMV
To update your name on your driver’s license head to your local DMV and request an update. Be sure to bring your current Arkansas driver’s license, your certified marriage certificate, your passport or birth certificate and $10. Your new license will be issued the same day you apply!
5. Arkansas Voter Registration Bureau
Changing your name on your voter registration ensures you have the ability to vote under your married name. Complete the Voter Registration Application and mail it to the Secretary of State along with photocopy of your ID/driver’s license.
6. ALL of Your Creditors and Accounts
Now that your federal and state forms are filed, it’s time to update your name will all of your creditors and accounts. We find breaking this into steps makes the process easier. Start with your employer and your banks. Usually, they require you to file a form in-person and submit a certified marriage certificate and updated SS card.
Next, update your name with your credit card companies, mortgage providers, loan providers, utilities, and professional licensing boards. Many of them will change your name by phone, or via an online form. Finally, change your name on all of your accounts, memberships, periodicals, frequent flyer programs, and on social media. Each company policy varies but most will allow you to login and make the update on your own.
7. Arkansas Name Change Made Easy
Does knowing how to change your name in Arkansas make your head hurt? Don’t worry! Use the MissNowMrs name change app or online name change service. They streamline the tedious 13 hour process into a matter of minutes. AND they keep you from making mistakes on legal binding forms!
