How Many Marriage Certificates are Needed for a Name Change?

The number of marriage certificates that a person needs is very dependent on how and where they are changing their name.  The DMV, State Department, and Social Security offices all require a certified marriage certificate to process a name change, but they will return them.  Name change with many banks and creditors will require marriage certificates and they are not obligated to return the certificates.  The average number of marriage certificates a bride uses for a name change in the United States is three.

Does it Matter How My Name is Listed on My Marriage Certificate?

If you are changing your name you may be concerned that your maiden name is printed on your certified marriage certificate or that you signed the certificate with your maiden signature.  As long as your name and your husband's name are listed on the certificate you can use it as legal proof of marriage for name-change purposes.  The name you are changing to does not need to be listed on the certified marriage certificate.

How do I get a Certified Marriage Certificate?

The official that performed your marriage ceremony will submit your marriage certificate to a county office for recording.  Certified copies of that certificate are typically available ten days after your ceremony.  You can personally go to the county office where you applied for your marriage license and request certified copies, or you can request your certificates on line.  www.MissNowMrs.com is a site that guides brides through the name-change and marriage certificate request processes.

How do Certified Marriage Certificates relate to name change?

Many state and U.S. government offices require a certified marriage certificate to be provided as proof of marriage before they will legally change a person's name.  Examples of the offices needing certified marriage certificates include: all state DMVs, the Social Security Administration, and the State Department (to issue a name change on a U.S. passport).  In addition to government offices many banks and creditors must be sent a certified marriage certificate to allow their customers to change their names on accounts.

How do I know if I have a Certified Marriage Certificate?

Certified marriage certificates will have a raised state and/or county seal on them. The seal ensures that the certificate is a legitimate copy of the original marriage certificate. If your document does not have a seal, it will not be accepted as a certified copy.

What is a Marriage Certificate?

A marriage certificate is a legal document issued by the county your marriage took place in.  It is proof that a marriage ceremony was conducted for the two individuals listed on the certificate.