After the big day has passed and the excitement and frustration of wedding planning is over, there are a few things left to do to finalize your marriage. More often than not, your marriage license and prenuptial agreement—should you choose to have one—are already complete. Many newlyweds are left wondering what else needs to get done.
Here’s the last bit of paperwork you need to file to make your commitment official.
Social Security
First, you want to head over to your local Social Security office where you can legally change your name, if you choose to do so. You will need to bring along your marriage license as well as proof of citizenship, such as your birth certificate. You will be provided with a form to fill out and send by mail or in person.
Driver’s License
Once you secure your new social security card, head over to your local DMV to update your license. Be sure to bring as much identification along as possible, including your new social security card, birth certificate, marriage license and current driver’s license. Since each state has its own set of rules and guidelines, be sure to research anything else you may need to make your DMV trip go smoothly.
Passport
With the same documents you brought with you to the DMV, as well as your updated ID and current passport, you can mail or bring your passport application to your local passport office. Be sure to get a current passport sized color photograph to bring along with your form. Check your state website to find passport office locations.
With all of the planning and excitement leading up to your wedding day, the logistics of updating your identification and accounts can be put on the backburner. Aside from the initial paperwork, here are some other accounts and documents you should remember to update and modify once you’re married.
- Post Office
- Bank Accounts
- Employer
- Mortgage or Lease
- Utilities
- Loan Companies
- Medical Providers
- Insurance Companies
- Will
Though it may not be as fun as picking your perfect venue, sending out your invites or walking down the aisle, completing this paperwork is important. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to manage these changes later. Start with the marriage license paperwork and before you know it, you’ll be living your official married life, happily ever after.
