Wedding New name question

[Soon2bMrs.B]

Sorry in advance if this has been asked before! I just got married on Sat. When can I sign my new last name? I''ve heard that I can''t sign it and use until it is changed with the social security office. Is that true? Thank you ladies for your help! I am anxious to use it, but not sure if I can yet!

 

[Sabine]

It depends...

Best advice I can offer you: CARRY A COPY OF YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE WITH YOU AT ALL TIMES! At least until all the name change stuff is official...

I was able to change my name with the bank even before I got the SS card or drivers license. But then they had to mail me a new check card. When I asked what to sign until I got it, I was told I can sign my old name or my new, but if I signed my new, make sure to have the cert. with me in case they asked to see ID.

If I signed up for anything new, I would use my new name, but a few times I had to show the marriage license since I didn't have any other proof.

ETA: Congrats! I know I was thrilled the first time I could sign my name...but I did go through a period where I felt really weird because I wasn't sure what to sign, it was kinda like being ID-less.

 

[neatfreak]

I mean you can sign it whenever you want! As to when you can use it legally, it should always be changed with the SS first, then the DMV. Then you can start using it in reality.

And I agree with Sabine, it''s best to carry a copy with you for a few weeks even after SS/DMV has changed it.