Congratulations on beginning a new journey in the Magnolia State! Whether you exchanged vows along the sandy shores of Biloxi or in the vibrant city of Jackson, changing your name in Mississippi requires some planning. Start by acquiring a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the county clerk’s office where your marriage license was filed. Next, a visit to the Social Security Administration is in order to update your Social Security card. Following this, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety will help you secure a new driver’s license. And, of course, don’t forget to notify banks, credit card companies, and other essential entities about your new surname. For a wealth of information and guidance on navigating the world of name change after marriage, www.missnowmrs.com is your go-to resource. So, embrace your new identity and enjoy every moment in charming Mississippi! Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever after! Read on for all the details…
The Mississippi Name Change Process
1. Social Security
The Social Security Administration is the first agency to file name change paperwork with. Complete the SS-5 form and decide if you will file in-person or by mail. You will need to file your form with your current Mississippi driver’s license or U.S. passport and your certified marriage certificate. There is no fee to have your request processed at this office!
Approximately 2 weeks after your form is processed, your new SS card will arrive in the mail. Your form of ID and certificate will also be included in this mailing. The card will show your new married name, but your SSN will remain the same.
2. The Internal Revenue Service
The IRS is the second federal agency to notify of your new name. Fill out the IRS-8822 form and then mail it to the appropriate office address listed on the second page with a photocopy of your marriage certificate. There is no fee to file this form, and it is not required by law. However, this form ensures that the IRS knows your maiden and married names and will have no confusion in issuing your tax returns. We believe it’s well worth the effort!
3. The State Department
The third step in the process is changing your name with the State Department. Your current passport status dictates 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 by mail. But, the DS-5504 must be filed in-person at a Passport Agency.
When you file your form, make sure to include your completed form with a certified copy of your marriage certificate, two 2×2 photos, and the correlating processing fee. Your new passport with your married name will arrive in the mail 5-6 weeks after you file your form. So, it is very important to take any international travel into account before you file!
4. Mississippi DMV
To change your name on your Mississippi driver’s license you will need to head to the DPS. *You can make an appointment to skip the long lines! Bring your current license (even if it is out of state,) a certified marriage certificate, $8.00, and proof of residence if you have recently moved. Your new license with your new married name will be issued the same day you apply.
5. Mississippi Voter Registration Bureau
Updating your name on your voter registration is simple. Complete the brief Mississippi Voter Registration Application, sign it, and then send it to your county circuit clerk. This filing locks in your ability to vote under your married name.
6. ALL of Your Creditors and Accounts
Once you’ve updated your name with all of the government agencies, it’s time to move onto all of your creditors and accounts. We advise starting with your employer and your banks. Generally, they will ask you to file a form in-person and present 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. A majority of them will change your name over the 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 is different, but most will allow you to login and make the update on your own.
7. The Mississippi Name Change Solution
Now that you understand how to change your name in Mississippi do you wish there way an easier way? Use the MissNowMrs name change app or online service to save 13 hours of hassle! It’s like pushing the easy button for name change!
