Wondering how to change your name in North Dakota? The name change experts at MissNowMrs put together this step-by-step guide to save you time and stress as you navigate your married name change as a newlywed!
The North Dakota Name Change Process
1. Your Social Security Card
If you’re ready to change your name, start with the Social Security Administration. Complete the SS-5 form, and choose if you wish to file by mail or in-person. You will need to file your form with a certified marriage certificate and either your U.S. passport or North Dakota driver’s license. *Please note that photocopies are not accepted.
Approximately 2 weeks after your form is processed, your new SS card will arrive in the mail. The card will bear your new married name, but your SSN will remain the same. If you opted to file by mail, your supporting documents will be returned in the same envelope as your new card.
2. The IRS
The next step is informing the Internal Revenue Service of your married name. Fill out the IRS-8822 form and mail it to the address associated with your state listed on the second page. You will need to include a photocopy of your marriage certificate with your form.
The IRS-8822 is not required, but taking the time to complete 11 questions ensures that when tax returns are issued, there are no holds placed on yours due to name change confusion. We think it’s totally worthwhile!
3. Your U.S. Passport
Then notify the State Department of your new married name. They have 3 different name change forms, tied to your current passport status. These forms are the DS-11, the DS-82, and the DS-5504. After filling in the form for your situation, file it with your current passport, a certified marriage certificate, two passport photos, and the appropriate processing fee.
U.S. passports tend to take 5-6 weeks to be processed and issued. With COVID delays, that timeline may be several weeks longer (even with expedited service.) So, be sure to take any upcoming international travel into account, before changing your name on your passport. TSA will not allow travel under a name that is different from your current tickets/reservation.
4. Your North Dakota Driver’s License
Now it’s time to change your name on your driver’s license. Head to the North Dakota DMV with your current license, a certified marriage certificate, and proof of residence if your address has changed. Be sure to bring your birth certificate or U.S. passport if you are exchanging an out of state license. Your new license will be issued the same day you apply! The fee is $3.00.
5. Your North Dakota Voter Registration
North Dakota is the only state that does not have or require a voter registration form. So, you can vote with your married name as soon as it’s on your driver’s license or U.S. passport. *Be sure to bring one of these forms of ID with you when you go to vote.
6. ALL of Your Creditors and Accounts
As you receive all new government forms of ID, it’s time to update your name with all of your creditors. We advise beginning with your employer and banking institutions. Typically, they will ask you to file a form in-person and show a certified marriage certificate (and sometimes your new SS card.)
Next, change your name with your loan providers, credit card companies, mortgage providers, utilities, and professional licensing boards. Most of them will update 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 many will allow you to login and make the update on your own.
7. North Dakota Name Change the Easy Way
Now that you’ve learned how to change your name in North Dakota are you feeling stressed at the thought of just accomplishing the first step? Don’t worry! The MissNowMrs name change app and online service will save you 13 hours of hassle. Allow us to help you transition from Miss to Mrs. in a matter of minutes!
