Name Change After Marriage for Newlyweds

Looking for name change advice or some tips for newlywed life? The MissNowMrs experts have created state-specific name change articles and checklists for you. We’ve chronicled our recommendations for how to travel while changing your name AND how to handle voting during the transition.

We’ve also compiled our best guidance for how to handle difficult sister in laws, holidays as newlyweds, the ever-annoying baby questions, and much more. Why? Because, while we are name change experts, we’re also newlywed wives, moms, and sisters.

We hope our name change advice articles help smooth your transition to your new name, and a whole new phase of life. Congratulations and best wishes from the entire MissNowMrs team!

How to Change Your Name in Oregon

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Ready to learn how to change your name in Oregon? This step by step guide was created by the MissNowMrs name change experts to make your transition to your new married name easier!

The Oregon Name Change Process

1. Social Security Administration

Name change starts with notifying the Social Security Administration via the SS-5 form. Complete the form and then file it in-person or by mail with your certified marriage certificate and either your Oregon driver’s license or your U.S. passport. Fortunately, there isn’t a fee to change your name with this agency!

Approximately two weeks after filing the SS-5, your new SS card will arrive in the mail. Your new card will have your married name on it, but your SSN will remain the same.

2. Internal Revenue Service

You are not required to notify the IRS of your name change. However, filing the IRS 8822 ensures that the Internal Revenue Service has your maiden and married names on file so there are no questions when tax returns are issued. There’s only 11 questions, and the 8822 is free to file… so consider it a “CYA” decision!

3. The State Department

The passport name change process you follow is based on your current status. You will need to fill out the DS-11, DS-82 or the DS-5504 based on how long you have had your current passport. The DS-81 and DS-5504 forms can be mailed to the State Department. But, if you’ve never had a passport, you will need to file your DS-11 form in-person at a local Passport Office.

All filings should include the correct form with a certified marriage certificate, two 2×2 photos, and the necessary filing fee. If you’ve had your current passport for less than one year, there is no fee to file for a new name on your passport!

4. Oregon DMV

To issue your new driver’s license, the DMV will need to see your new social security card showing your married name. Also bring your completed Oregon Driver’s license application, current license, certified marriage certificate, your U.S. passport or certified birth certificate, and two proofs of residence if your address has changed.

Be prepared to have a new photo taken at the DMV, as it is a name change requirement. Your new license will be issued the same day you apply for it! Try to file mid-week and mid-month to have the shortest wait time.

5. Oregon Voter Registration

Updating your name on your voter registration ensure you won’t have any trouble casting your ballot. Simply complete the Oregon Voter Registration application and mail it with a photocopy of your new license (showing your married name) to your County’s Election Office.

6. Everyone Else

Once you’ve updated your name with all of the government agencies, it’s time to notify the rest of the world. Start with your employer and banks. Typically, they will require you to file in-person to change your name in their systems. Next up are your mortgage/loan providers, utility companies, insurance providers, investment accounts, professional license boards, and medical providers. Most of these companies will allow you to change your name via a phone call or update form. Finally, notify all of your memberships, frequent flyer accounts, subscriptions, and social media accounts of your new married name.

7. The Oregon Name Change Solution

Wishing you could skip the process of how to change your name in Oregon? The MissNowMrs name change app and online service can save you 13 hours of stress! Join the 500,000+ newlyweds who have elected to let us streamline their name changes today.

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How to Change Your Name in Indiana

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Pondering how to change your name in Indiana? The MissNowMrs name change experts have put together a detailed checklist to help you through each step in Indiana!

The Indiana Name Change Process

1. Update Your Social Security Card

First, notify the Social Security Administration of your new name. This involves filling out the SS-5 form and filing it with your Indiana driver’s license or U.S. passport, and your certified marriage certificate. There is no fee for your name change at this office!

Two weeks after your form is processed, your new SS card will arrive in the mail. The card will show your new married name, but your SSN will remain the same. If you filed by mail, your form of ID and marriage certificate will be included with your new card.

2. Notify the IRS of Your New Name

Second on the list, is changing your name with the Internal Revenue Service. Complete the IRS 8822 form and mail it to the office in your region with a photocopy of your marriage certificate. This form is not required, but it ensures you will receive your tax returns in your married name. It’s free and totally worth the peace of mind in our opinion!

3. Update Your U.S. Passport

Filing for your new passport, is the third step you need to take to legally change to your married name. There are three different application forms based on if, and how long you have had a passport. Fill out the form that is appropriate for your situation, and then file it by mail (unless it’s your first passport) along with two 2×2 passport photos, your certified marriage certificate, and the specific fee.

The State Department understands that many couples file for a passport right before their honeymoons. So, if your current passport is less than 12 months old, it’s free file for your new one! Consider it a surprise wedding gift from the State Department.

4. Change Your Name on Your Indiana Driver’s License

To change your name on your Indiana driver’s license you will need to wait at least 24 hours after filing for your new Social Security card. The DMV will need to see your filing receipt from that office, or your new card before they can update your name on your license. You should also bring your current license, certified marriage certificate, certified birth certificate, and two proofs of residence.

Your Indiana driver’s license will be issued the same day you apply for it. This is the only government office where you must file in-person, as they require a new photo for name changes.

5. Update Your Indiana Voter Registration

The last government entity to notify of your new married name is your County Voter Registration Office. Simply complete the Indiana Voter Registration Application in your new name and mail it to your specific County Voter Registration Office. The addresses are listed on the second to last page of your application or via the Indiana Voter website. Filing this brief form ensures your ability to vote under your married name in the next election.

6. Notify ALL of Your Creditors

Once you receive all of your federal and state forms of ID in your new married name, it’s time to notify your creditors. Start with your employer, banks, and professional license boards. They will most likely need you to file a form in-person to change your name. Then, move on to your mortgage/lease providers, insurance providers, medical providers, and utility companies. You should be able to change your name over the phone or with a brief online form with these entities. Finally, update your name on all of your memberships, associations, periodicals, and social media accounts.

7. Indiana Name Change Made Easy

Overwhelmed by how to change your name in Indiana? We can help! Use the MissNowMrs name change app or online service to save 13 hours on your name change. There’s no need to waste precious newlywed time standing in long office lines.

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How to Change Your Name in Minnesota | 2020

Trying to understand how to change your name in Minnesota? Use our step by step checklist to save time and stress. It’s courtesy of the name change experts at MissNowMrs!

The Minnesota Name Change Process

1. The Social Security Administration

First on every newlywed’s list is changing the name on your Social Security card. To update your name, complete the SS-5 form and file it with your driver’s license/U.S. passport and your certified marriage certificate. There is no fee for your name change at this agency!

Two weeks after your form is processed, your new SS card will arrive in the mail. Your card will show your new married name, but your SSN remains the same.

2. 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.

3. The Internal Revenue Service

Changing your name with the IRS is not as bad as one might think. Answer the 11 questions on the IRS 8822 form, and then mail it to the appropriate office with a photocopy of your marriage certificate. That’s it! This form is not required, but it makes sure that the IRS has your maiden and married names on file when they issue tax returns.

4. The Minnesota DMV

Next up is changing your name on your Minnesota driver’s license. Be sure to bring your current license, and your certified marriage certificate. Also, be prepared to have a new photo taken, as they are required before a name change can be processed by this agency.

Insider tips: Head to the DMV mid-month and mid-week for the shortest lines. Also, the Minnesota DMV only accepts cash or checks for their $12.75 processing fee.

5. Minnesota Voter Registration Bureau

Notify the Minnesota Voter Registration Bureau of your new name by filling out their form. Then, mail it to your the Secretary of State in St. Paul to make sure you are able to vote using your new married name.

6. All of Your Creditors

Now it it time to change your name with all of the companies and offices that currently use your maiden name. Start with your employer and banks. Most of these entities will require you to file a form in-person to update your name. Then, move on to your utilities, insurances, investment accounts, medical providers, professional license boards, mortgage companies, and loan providers. Most of them will allow you to change your name over the phone, or by completing a brief form. Finally, update your name on all of your memberships, periodicals, frequent flyer accounts, and social media.

7. The Minnesota Name Change Solution

Did learning how to change your name in Minnesota stress you out? Don’t worry! The MissNowMrs app and online name change service have been saving newlyweds 13+ hours of hassle since 2007. We’d love to help you transition to your new married name with minimal hassle.

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How to Change Your Name in Missouri

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Researching how to change your name in Missouri? You’ve come to the right place! The MissNowMrs name change experts have crafted a 7 step list to help you navigate the process in Missouri.

The Missouri Name Change Process

Before You Begin Your Name Change in Missouri

Before starting the name change process obtain several certified copies of your marriage certificate. You might wonder why there’s a need for multiple copies. The reason is straightforward: various entities and institutions might require an original certified copy, not just a mere photocopy, to validate the authenticity of the document. This is to ensure that the information presented is genuine and has not been tampered with.

To get these certified copies, you should approach the county recorder’s office (aka County Clerk’s office) where your marriage license was originally issued. It’s always a good idea to request more copies than you think you might need. This way, you’re prepared for any unexpected situations where a name change requires certified marriage certificate might be demanded. Having multiple copies on hand can expedite processes and reduce the waiting time that might arise if you find yourself needing to request additional copies later on.

Popular Missouri County Clerks Offices

St. Louis County
Jackson County
St. Charles County
Greene County
Clay County
Jefferson County
Boone County
Jasper County
Franklin County
Cass County
Platte County
Buchanan County

1. Social Security

In Missouri, if you’re looking to change your name, the first action on your checklist should be obtaining a new Social Security card. How do you go about this? Start by grabbing the SS-5 form. This form is your ticket to updating your name with the Social Security Administration. Once you have it, you’re faced with a choice: do you want to submit the form in person, or would you rather send it by mail? Either way works, so pick the method that’s most convenient for you.

Now, before you rush off to submit the form, make sure you’ve got all your documents in order. Along with the SS-5 form, you’ll need to include a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This document proves the legitimacy of your name change. Additionally, you’ll need to provide a form of identification. This could be your driver’s license or even your U.S. passport. And here’s some more good news: there’s no fee to pay when you’re filing for a name change with the Social Security Administration. That’s right, it’s completely free!

Once you’ve sent off your form and documents, all you need to do is wait. In about two weeks, you’ll receive a brand-new Social Security card in the mail. This card will proudly display your new married name. But here’s an essential detail to remember: while your name on the card changes, your Social Security Number remains the same. It’s a constant, ensuring continuity in your records. So, with a bit of paperwork and a short wait, you’ll be all set with your new name in the Show-Me State!

2. Internal Revenue Service

Changing your name with the IRS in Missouri is a straightforward task, and it’s one that can be accomplished with minimal fuss. If you’re a resident of the Show-Me State and you’ve recently undergone a name change, perhaps due to marriage, there’s a simple step you can take to ensure the IRS is up-to-date with your current details. All you need to do is fill out the IRS 8822 form. This form is user-friendly and doesn’t take much time to complete. Once you’ve filled it out, just pair it with a photocopy of your marriage certificate and send it off to the IRS office assigned to you.

Now, you might be wondering, “Is this step really necessary?” Technically, newlyweds aren’t mandated to submit this form. However, think about the future. When tax season rolls around, and you’re eagerly awaiting your tax returns, the last thing you want is a mix-up or delay because the IRS has your old name on file. Submitting the IRS 8822 form ensures that everything matches up, and your tax dealings proceed without a hitch.

In essence, taking this small step now can save you potential confusion and stress down the line. It’s a free form, so there’s no financial cost involved. And when you weigh the minimal effort against the significant peace of mind it offers, it’s clear that completing and submitting the IRS 8822 form is a wise move for any Missouri resident who has recently changed their name. In our view, it’s a small action that brings significant benefits, making it well worth the effort.

3. United States Passport Name Change

The third agency to file for you name change at is the State Department. The status of your passport determines whether you should 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 valid Passport Agency.

When you file for your new passport, be sure to include your completed form with a certified marriage certificate, two 2×2 photos, and the appropriate processing fee. You will receive your new passport in the mail approximately 5-6 weeks after filing your form. So, be sure to plan your international travel accordingly!

Note that you can use the MissNowMrs app to get your properly formatted passport photos and forms

4. Missouri Driver’s License

To change your name on your Missouri Driver’s License, plan a visit to your local DMV office. It’s the place where all the magic happens. When you head there, make sure you have a few essential items with you. Your current Missouri driver’s license is a must-have. It’s the foundation on which your new license will be built. Next, you’ll need your certified marriage certificate. This document is crucial as it verifies the reason for your name change. And if you’ve recently moved, don’t forget to bring proof of your new residence. This ensures that all the details on your new license are up-to-date.

Now, here’s the exciting part. Once you’ve submitted all your documents and completed the necessary paperwork, you won’t have to wait days or weeks for your new license. The Missouri DMV will hand it over to you right then and there! That’s right, on the very same day you apply, you’ll walk out with a shiny new driver’s license showcasing your married name. It’s one of the unique perks of the DMV. While many government offices might have you waiting for your new ID to arrive in the mail, the DMV ensures you leave with it in hand.

5. Missouri Voter Registration Name Change

It is important to change your name on your voter registration. Complete the Missouri Voter Registration Application. Then, mail it to the appropriate Board of Elections Office. You can find the correct address for your county here. This ensures that you will be able to vote in your new married name.

6. All Non-Government Entities

Once you have your new name on all of your forms of ID, it’s time to notify your creditors. Start with your employer, banks, and insurance providers. Most of them will require you to file a form in-person to change your name. Then, move on to your credit card providers, insurance providers, utilities, professional license boards, medical providers, and loan providers. Many of these entities will allow you to change your name by phone or by using an online form. Finally, update your name with all of your memberships, periodicals, and on social media!

7. Missouri Name Change Made Easy

Now that you’re clear on how to change your name in Missouri, do you wish there was an easier way? Great news! The MissNowMrs app or online name change service can save you 13 hours on your name change. Let the experts handle the process, so you can focus on the fun of being a newlywed!

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These steps work for all residents of Missouri, including residents of Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, Columbia, Independence, Lee’s Summit, O’Fallon, St. Joseph, St. Charles, St. Peters, Blue Springs, and Joplin.

How to Change to Your Married Name in California

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When embarking on the journey of changing your name after marriage in California, it is essential to be aware of the series of federal and state-level forms and notifications that need to be undertaken. This comprehensive 7-step process will diligently guide you through all the necessary procedures. We will assist you in adopting your new married name. It’s important to note that your marriage certificate will play a role as the key document required throughout this process. Also, contrary to some assumptions, there is no name change application form for California residence.

Before you begin this name change process you will need to obtain multiple certified copies of your marriage certificate. These copies serve as crucial documentation when updating various records and identifications with your new name. These documents are provided by the county where the marriage took place.

How to Change Your Last Name in California After Getting Married

Step 1. File for your Social Security Card with your Married Name

Now that you’re ready to change your name, the first step is to complete the SS-5 form, the Social Security Administration’s official application for a new Social Security card. You can obtain this form from their website or visit a local Social Security office to get a physical copy.

Make sure to fill out the form accurately, providing all the necessary information. You’ll need to include your personal details, such as your current name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Indicate that you’re applying for a name change due to marriage and provide your new married name as it appears on your certified marriage certificate.

Once you’ve completed the form, the next step is to submit it along with the required documents. You’ll need to show or include your certified marriage certificate, which serves as evidence of your recent marriage and validates the name change. Additionally, you must provide proof of your identity, which can be either your U.S. passport or your state driver’s license or identification card.

After ensuring all the documents are in order, you have two options for filing the form: you can either do it in person by visiting your local Social Security office, or you can opt to mail the completed SS-5 form and the supporting documents to the Social Security Administration.

Once your application is processed, you can expect to receive your new Social Security card in approximately two weeks. It’s essential to verify all the information on the card for accuracy once you receive it.

Remember, obtaining your updated Social Security card is a vital step in the name change process. It will serve as official documentation of your new name for various legal and administrative purposes. Following these steps diligently will ensure a seamless transition to your new married name, allowing you to embrace your new identity with confidence and ease.

Step 2: Notify the IRS of Your Married Name Change

The IRS Form 8822 serves as a formal notification to the Internal Revenue Service about your name change due to marriage. While not filing the form won’t necessarily lead to immediate consequences, it’s prudent to consider the possible scenarios that may arise if the IRS remains unaware of your name change. Failing to inform the IRS about your married name could lead to complications and delays in processing your tax returns.

By taking a few minutes to fill out the IRS Form 8822 and providing accurate information about your name change, you can help prevent any hitches that might otherwise arise during tax season. This proactive approach ensures that the IRS is well-informed about your updated identity, reducing the risk of any unnecessary delays or inquiries.

Moreover, notifying the IRS through Form 8822 can be especially valuable if you’ve had any tax-related issues in the past or anticipate complex financial matters in the future. Keeping your records up-to-date with the IRS will contribute to the smooth handling of your tax affairs. This should provide you with added peace of mind.

Given its ease of completion and the potential advantages it offers, the IRS Form 8822 can be seen as a practical step to safeguard yourself from any inadvertent issues that may occur with your tax returns. It presents an opportunity to proactively manage your tax-related matters and ensure a seamless transition to your new married name without any undue stress or complications.

Step 3: File for Your California Driver’s License under your new Married Name

In the process of changing your name after marriage in California, there is one notable exception where filing the name-change form in person is mandated. That is the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The reason behind this requirement is to ensure that they can capture a new photograph of you, corresponding to your newly acquired name. This helps maintain the accuracy and security of your driver’s license, reflecting your current identity.

To successfully initiate this name-change process at the California DMV, it’s essential to come prepared with the necessary documentation. Firstly, make sure you have a completed DL-44 form, which is the official application for a driver’s license or identification card. You can obtain this form from the DMV’s website or from their physical locations.

In addition to the DL-44 form, bring along your current driver’s license, which serves as crucial identification and proof of your prior name. As part of the application process, you’ll need to verify your residence in California. Accepted documents for this purpose include utility bills or other official correspondence showing your current address.

Note that there is a $33 fee to process the name change on your driver’s license. Be prepared to make this payment during your visit to the DMV.

It’s important to note that there is a waiting period after filing your name change with the Social Security Administration. You must allow 24 hours to pass before proceeding with the name-change process at the DMV. If you mailed your name-change forms to the Social Security Administration, it is recommended to wait at least a week before visiting the DMV. This ensures that the required information has been updated in their systems.

By adhering to these guidelines and fulfilling the necessary requirements, you can confidently visit the California DMV and complete the name-change process with efficiency and ease. With your updated driver’s license and official identification, you can proudly embrace your new married name on all legal and administrative fronts.

Step 4: File for Your New Passport to Change to your Married Name

To apply for your new passport with your changed name, the US State Department has three distinct application forms. The different forms meet the requirements in different situations. This is based on whether you currently have a passport and the duration you’ve held it. Choose the form that best fits your circumstances, and then proceed with the application process.

For those individuals who already possess a passport, the application can be submitted by mail. However, if it’s your first time applying for a passport, you’ll need to apply in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. Regardless of which form are to be used, certain essential documents are required for a successful application.

Be sure to include two recent 2×2 passport-sized photos along with your application. These photos must meet the specific passport photo requirements to ensure acceptance. Moreover, a certified copy of your marriage certificate is a crucial piece of documentation. This will serve as legal evidence of your name change due to marriage.

The MissNowMrs Name Change mobile app will allow you to take your picture on your phone, and we will mail you your 2×2 passport photo along with your complete name change kit.

It’s important to note that the fee for your new passport will depend on the specific circumstances of your application. If your current passport has been in your possession for less than 12 months, the U.S. State Department offers a special benefit for newlyweds. You can apply for your new passport for free during this period. Consider it a thoughtful wedding gift from the government.

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary materials and filled out the appropriate application form, submit it as directed, whether by mail or in person for first-time applicants. The State Department will process your application, and upon approval, you’ll receive your brand-new passport reflecting your cherished married name.

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Step 5: Notify Your Creditors of Your Married Name Change

Indeed, now that you have successfully completed the federal steps and obtained your updated identification. Now it’s time to ensure that your new married name is reflected across all aspects of your life. To achieve this, it’s essential to proactively notify various entities and service providers about your name change.

A personalized and systematic approach is key when informing your banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, mortgage lenders, and loan providers of your new name. Crafting individual letters is a thoughtful way to communicate the change. This will allow you to include necessary documentation, such as a copy of your certified marriage certificate. These letters should contain pertinent details. Include your account numbers, old name, new name, and contact information, to facilitate a seamless update on their records.

In addition to written correspondence, making phone calls to these institutions can expedite the process. This will also provide an opportunity to confirm the reception of your name change request. You will often be guided through the steps necessary for updating your information by the customer service representatives. This can ensure that the transition is conducted accurately and efficiently.

A proactive approach ensures that your new name is reflected consistently across all your accounts. While the process may require some effort and patience, it will ultimately prevent any potential confusions or complications in the future.

Embrace this opportunity to establish your new identity with confidence, knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to keep all aspects of your life in harmony with your cherished married name. The thoughtful effort you invest in these notifications will undoubtedly contribute to a seamless and rewarding transition into this exciting new chapter of your life.

Step 6: Notify Vendors and Professional Organizations of your New Married Name

Undoubtedly, informing everyone, including vendors and professional organizations, about your name change is an essential step. This will ensure a smooth transition into your new married life. A comprehensive list often helps in managing this process. Include all the vendors you have affiliations with, including utility companies, service providers, and other entities you interact with.

Once your list is complete, drafting polite and concise letters or emails to each vendor becomes a practical approach. These communications should clearly state the purpose of the message—your recent name change—and provide the necessary details. Include your old name, new married name, and relevant account numbers or identification information.

For vendors that you interact with primarily online or via email communication, sending an email can be a convenient option. On the other hand, for vendors who prefer traditional correspondence, mailing a letter serves the purpose effectively.

As for professional organizations, it is essential to review their specific guidelines and protocols for name change notifications. In some situations there may be documentation or specific forms that will need to be completed, while other times there is a more straightforward process in place. Be sure to adhere to their specific requirements to ensure a successful update of your information with them.

The name change notification process may take some time, as each vendor or organization might have its own processing timeframes. Starting this process promptly after you’ve legally changed your name ensures that you stay ahead of any potential administrative challenges.

While the task of notifying multiple entities may seem daunting, approaching it with a well-organized list and can alleviate stress. Embrace this as an opportunity to embrace your new married name fully, as you confidently navigate through these notifications, paving the way for a harmonious and unified identity in all aspects of your personal and professional life.

Step 7: Work Smarter NOT Harder on Your California Name Change

Instead of locating, completing, and figuring out how to file all of your name change forms and notification letters, use the MissNowMrs app or easy online name change service. We’ll take you from Miss to Mrs. in a matter of minutes, instead of 13 hours! We are here if you have any questions about how to change your name in California after marriage.

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Our name change experts made a video explaining the California married name change process for you!

The instructions are valid for married name change throughout California. This includes Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Fresno, Sacramento, Long Beach, Oakland, Bakersfield, and Anaheim.

In order to change your name in California after marriage you will need a certified copy of your marriage certificate. The county where the marriage took place can provide these documents.

Los Angeles County name change
San Diego County name change
Orange County name change
Riverside County name change
San Bernardino County name change