Curious how to change your name in Michigan? The married name change process varies widely from state to state. Luckily the experts at MissNowMrs have written a checklist to make the process easier for Michigan newlyweds!
The Michigan Married Name Change Process
1. Social Security
The first federal government office to file with is the Social Security Administration. To change your name, you will need to complete and file the SS-5 form. There is the option to file your form for free in-person or by mail. Your name will change on your new Social Security card, but your Social Security number will remain the same.
2. IRS
Changing your name with the IRS is straight forward. Simply complete and file the IRS 8822 form by mail. The IRS office is the one federal government agency that does accept photocopies of marriage certificates, so be sure to include one with your 8822 form.
3. U.S. Passport
Your current passport status dictates whether you will need to complete the DS-11, DS-82 or the DS-5504. The DS-81 and DS-5504 forms have file by mail options. But, if you’re filing for your first 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 correct processing fee. The State Department will mail you your new passport with your new married name approximately 5-6 weeks after receiving your form.
4. Michigan Driver’s License/ID
Make sure that you have filed for your new Social Security card at least 48 hours before applying for your Michigan driver’s license or ID. The DMV checks with the Social Security Administration before they issue a new form of ID in a new name. The Michigan DMV is the only state-level office where you must file for your name change in person. Don’t forget to bring your current Michigan driver’s license, certified marriage certificate, and proof of residency (if you have moved.)
5. Michigan Voter Registration
To update your name on your Michigan voter registration, you will need to complete a simple form. You then mail it to your city clerk along with a photo copy of your new driver’s license. Then, you’ll be all set for the next round of elections.
6. Creditors
Once you have changed your name with the federal and Michigan state-level government agencies, it is time to change your name with your creditors. These include your banks, credit cards, insurance providers, mortgage providers, and student loan providers. Utilities, professional license boards, employers, memberships, and any entity that sends you mail will also need to be notified of your new married name.
Many creditors will allow you to change your name over the phone. Others will require you to complete an online or mail-in form. While still others, like banks, will require you to file for your name change in-person with your certified marriage certificate.
7. Michigan Name Change Simplified
Now that you know how to change your name in Michigan, are you feeling like married name change is an endless ordeal? Don’t worry! The MissNowMrs name change app and online service streamline the process into minutes. Save yourself time and stress by letting the experts help you change your name the easy way!
