Trying to figure out how to change your name in Ohio? Good news! The MissNowMrs experts have created a checklist to help you navigate the name change process in your state.
The Ohio Name Change Process
1. Social Security
The first government agency that needs to be notified of your new name is the Social Security Administration. Simply complete the SS-5 form and decide if you want to file in-person or by mail. You will need to file with your driver’s license or U.S. passport, certified marriage certificate, and completed SS-5 form. If you do not have a U.S. passport, it is best to file in person so you are not without your driver’s license while your paperwork is processed.
2. Internal Revenue Service
Next, file the IRS 8822 form with the Internal Revenue Service. While the form title is change of address, it is also used to notify the agency of new names. This form is optional, but since it ensures there will be no confusion regarding your name on tax returns we think it is totally worth completing. The IRS 8822 is free to file, and can be mailed to the IRS with a photocopy of your marriage certificate.
3. U.S. Passport
The passport name change process you follow is based on your current passport status. You will need to complete 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 passport filings should include your completed form with a certified marriage certificate, two 2×2 photos, and the appropriate filing fee. If you’ve had your current passport for less than 12 months, there is no fee to file for a new name on your passport!
4. Ohio Driver’s License
The Ohio Deputy Registrar’s office must see your new social security card with your new name before they can issue you a new license. So, be sure to file for your social security card and wait to receive it in the mail before you file for your new name on your driver’s license. This typically takes 2 weeks from the time you file the SS-5 form.
You will also need to bring your current driver’s license, certified marriage certificate, and proof of residence to file for your license. The good news is, your new driver’s license will be issued the same day that you file for it.
5. Voter Registration
Updating your married name on your Ohio voter registration is easy. Simply print and complete their brief form, sign it in your new married name, and mail it to your County Board of Elections. You can find the address for all Ohio county boards in this directory.
6. Creditors
Finally, it is time to notify all of the non-government agencies and companies of your new married name. These include employers, banks, credit card providers, loan providers, mortgage companies, and professional license boards. As well as utilities, memberships, subscriptions, and more. Many creditors will process your name change request by phone. But, some will require you to complete a form and/or file in-person with your certified marriage certificate.
7. The Ohio Name Change Solution
Now that you know how to change your name in Ohio, are you feeling stressed out? Instead of wasting 13 hours of newlywed life on your name change, use the MissNowMrs app or service. We streamline the tedious process into a matter of minutes!