Need to understand how to change your name in Rhode Island? The name change experts at MissNowMrs created this 7 step guide to save you time and stress as you navigate your name change with state and government agencies.
The Rhode Island Name Change Process
1. Social Security Card
The first government issued document to change your name on is your Social Security card. Fill out the SS-5 form, and decide if you wish to file by mail or in person. You will need your current driver’s license or U.S. passport and a certified marriage certificate for the filing process. Guess what? It’s free to file for this update!
Approximately 2 weeks after your paperwork is processed, your new SS card will arrive in your mailbox. Your new married name will be listed on the card, but your SSN will stay the same.
2. The IRS
The place to change your name is with the Internal Revenue Service. Complete the IRS 8822 form and mail it in along with a photo copy of your Rhode Island marriage certificate. This form is not required, but it’s free to file and ensures that the IRS know who to issue your tax returns to in the spring!
3. U.S. Passport
The third document that needs updating is your passport. Your current passport status decides 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 has to be filed at a Passport Agency in person.
When filing, include your completed form with a certified copy of your marriage certificate, two 2×2 photos, and the correct processing fee. Your new passport with your new married name will arrive in the mail 5-6 weeks after filing. So, we advise taking into account any international travel you have planned before filing.
4. Rhode Island Driver’s License
Next up is changing your name on your Rhode Island driver’s license. Head to your local DMV with your LI-1 form. Please note that you must wait at least 24 hours after filing for your new name with the Social Security Administration before you can file for your new license.
Be sure to bring your current license, certified marriage certificate, your new SS card, or a receipt from the SS office showing your new name. You will also need to bring 2 proofs of residence, such as a utility bill and bank statement. The fee for your new license is $6.50 and it will be issued the same day you apply.
5. Rhode Island Voter Registration
Your last state-level form to file is with the Voter Registration Bureau. Fill out the Rhode Island Voter Registration form. Then mail it to your city board of canvassers along with a photocopy of your new driver’s license and a utility bill or bank statement that shows your name and address. This filing will ensure that you have the ability to vote under your married name.
6. ALL of Your Creditors and Accounts
Now that you’ve updated your name with all of the government agencies, it’s time to notify all of our creditors AND revise all of your accounts. Start with your employer and your banking institutions. Typically, they will ask you to file a form in-person and show a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
Next, update your name with your loan providers, credit card companies, mortgage providers, utilities, and professional licensing boards. Many will change your name by phone, or online. Finally, change your name on all of your accounts, memberships, periodicals, frequent flyer programs, and on social media. Every company’s policy will vary, but most will allow you to login and make the update on your own.
7. The Easy Name Change Solution in Maine
Now that you’ve learned how to change your name in Rhode Island are you dreading the process? There are TONS of forms to figure out and endless offices to file with. Fortunately, you can use the MissNowMrs name change app or online name change service to save 13 hours of hassle!
