Researching how to change your name in Iowa? Good news! The name change experts at MissNowMrs designed this 7 step guide to help you understand the best procedure for Iowa state and federal government filings.
The Iowa Name Change Process
1. Social Security Administration
The first step in your name change is filing the SS-5 form. Complete it and decide if you will file in-person or by mail. You will need to file with your current driver’s license or U.S. passport and a certified marriage certificate. Fortunately, there is not a fee to update your name with the SSA.
Within 2 weeks of filing, your new SS card will be mailed to you. The card will have your married name on in, but your SSN will stay the same. You will need your new SS card to file for your Iowa driver’s license, which is why you should file for it first!
2. The Internal Revenue Service
The second step is notify the IRS of your married name. Complete the IRS-8822 form and mail it to the address on the second page that correlates with your state of residence. This form is free to file and ensures that this agencies knows your maiden and married names when they issue tax returns. No newlywed wants their tax returns held up due to confusion!
3. The State Department
The third step is changing your name on your passport. Your current passport status determines if you should complete the DS-11, DS-82 or the DS-5504 form. You have the option to file the DS-11 and DS-82 via mail. But, the DS-5504 has to be filed at a Passport Agency.
When you file your form, include your completed form with a certified marriage certificate, two 2×2 photos, and the appropriate processing fee. Your new passport with your new married name will arrive in the mail 5-6 weeks after filing. So, we advice taking into account any international travel you have planned before you file.
4. Iowa DMV
The first state-level office to file with is the Iowa DMV. To get your new license, head to your local DMV with your current license, new SS card, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, and $1 for the processing fee. Your new license will be issued the same day you apply! Be sure to wear something nice, as a new photo will be taken.
5. Iowa Voter Registration Bureau
Next up is changing your name on your voter registration. Fill out the Iowa Voter Registration form with your new married name, and mail it to you city’s Commissioner of Elections. Completing this step is essential if you want to be able to vote under your married name.
6. ALL of Your Creditors and Accounts
Now that your government forms are filed, it’s time to focus on your creditors. We advise starting with your employer and your banking institutions. Usually, they will ask you to file a form in-person and show a certified copy of your marriage certificate (and occasionally your new SS card.)
Next, update your name with your loan providers, credit card companies, mortgage 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 of your accounts, memberships, periodicals, frequent flyer programs, and on social media.Each company’s policy will vary, but a majority will allow you to login and make the update on your own.
7. The Easy Way to Change Your Name in Iowa
Feeling overloaded now that you know how to change your name in Iowa? There’s a simple solution. Use the MissNowMrs app or online name change service to save 13 hours of name change hassle. You’ll also get to avoid the majority of long office lines. It’s a no brainer for any busy newlywed!
