Working out how to change your name in West Virginia? You’re reading the right article! The MissNowMrs name change experts put together this 7 step guide to help you save time and headaches as you navigate your name change with state and government agencies.
The West Virginia Name Change Process
1. Social Security Administration
The first step in change your name after marriage is filing the SS-5 with the SSA. You will need to file this form in person or by mail with your current driver’s license or U.S. passport, a certified marriage certificate, and $0. There is no fee to file this name change form!
2-3 weeks after your form is processed your new social security card will arrive in the mail. The card will have you new married name and your original SSN on it.
2. The Internal Revenue Service
Next up is changing your name with the IRS. Complete the IRS 8822 form, and mail it to the appropriate address on the second page. You will need to include a photocopy of your marriage certificate in your filing. This form is not required by law, but it ensures the IRS has your maiden and married names on record when they issue tax returns.
3. The State Department
The third place to change your name is on your U.S. passport. The State Department has three different forms, depending on your current passport status. The DS-11, the DS-82, and the DS-5504. After completing the correct form, file it with your current passport, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, two passport photos, and the listed processing fee.
Typically, U.S. passports take 5-6 weeks to be processed and issued. With COVID delays, that timeline can be even longer. So, be sure to take any upcoming international travel into account, before changing your name on your passport. TSA does not allow you to travel under a name that is different from your current reservation.
4. The West Virginia DMV
The fourth place to change your name is on your West Virginia driver’s license. Head to your local DMV with your current driver’s license, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, your new Social Security card in your married name, your U.S. passport or birth certificate and 2 proofs of residence. Your new license will be issued in your married name the same day you apply!
5. The West Virginia Voter Registration Bureau
It is important to update your name on your voter registration so you can vote under your married name. Simply complete the West Virginia Voter Registration application and mail it to your county clerk with a photocopy of your new driver’s license. The clerk will update their records with your new name.
6. ALL of Your Creditors and Accounts
Once your government forms are filed, it’s time to notify all of your creditors. We advise starting with your employer and your banking institutions. Usually, they will ask you to file a form in-person and show 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. Many 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. Each company’s policy will be different, but many will allow you to login and make the update on your own.
7. The Easy Way To Change Your Name in West Virginia
Now that you know how to change your name in West Virginia are you feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry! You can use the MissNowMrs app or online name change service to save 13 hours. Let our experts and technology streamline your transition from Miss to Mrs. in a matter of minutes.
