Understanding how to change your name in Kentucky can be tricky. Fortunately, the married name change gurus at MissNowMrs created this 7 step guide. It’s designed to save you countless hours and stress as you initiate your name change with state and federal government agencies.
The Kentucky Name Change Process
1. Social Security Administration
The first step in your name change process is updating your name with Social Security. Complete the SS-5 form and then decide if you will file in person or by mail. Either way, you will need to provide your certified marriage certificate and your Kentucky driver’s license or U.S. passport. There is no fee associated with this filing.
Approximately 2 weeks after your form is processed you will receive your new SS card in the mail. The card will show your new married name, but your SSN will remain the same. Be sure to keep this document in a secure location.
2. The IRS
The second step is informing the Internal Revenue Service of your new name. This is accomplished by completing and filing the IRS 8822 form. While brief, this form can be difficult to understand.
Take our advice and muscle through filing with the IRS. It ensures that when your tax returns are issued they will have no trouble coming to your married name. We’ve heard nightmare stories of returns being held due to name change confusion. No newlywed needs that!
3. The State Department
The third step involves changing your name on your U.S. passport. The State Department has three different forms for you to complete, based on your passport status. They are the DS-11, the DS-82, and the DS-5504. After identifying and filling out the correct form, file it with your current passport, your certified marriage certificate, two passport photos, and the listed processing fee.
U.S. passports usually 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. Airlines do not allow you to travel under a name not on your current reservation, and you will have to re-book your ticket.
4. Kentucky DMV
The fourth step of your name change involves applying for a duplicate license in your married name at the Kentucky DMV. Wait until you have your new SS card showing your married name, as this office must see it to issue a new license. You will also need your certified marriage certificate and 2 proofs of Kentucky residence to file for your new license. The fee is $12 and your new driver’s license will be issued the same day you apply!
5. Kentucky Voter Registration Bureau
Good news! You can file to change your name on your voter registration by mail. Simply complete the Commonwealth of Kentucky Mail-In Voter Registration form. Then, send it to the State Board of Elections. This ensures that you will have the ability to vote under your married name in the upcoming election.
6. ALL of Your Creditors and Accounts
Now that government agencies know your married name, it’s time to move on to notifying all of the companies you have accounts or memberships with. Start with your employer and your banking institutions. Typically, they require you to file a form in-person and submit a certified marriage certificate (and sometimes your new SS card.)
Next, update your name with your loan providers, credit card companies, mortgage providers, utilities, and professional licensing boards. A majority 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. Please note that each company varies but most will allow you to login and make the update on your own.
7. Kentucky Name Change Made Easy
Now that you understand how to change your name in Kentucky are you feeling stressed out? Don’t worry, there’s a solution! Use the MissNowMrs App or easy online name change service to change your name in a matter of minutes. We save each client an average of 13 hours on their name change!
