NAME CHANGING CHECKLIST
Before You Begin
Make sure to have a certified copy of your marriage certificate before you start contacting various agencies. This is your proof of legal name change and you will need it to complete the following steps.
Step One – Social Security
Visit your local Social Security office. You will be issued a new social security card with the same number and your new last name. Social Security will also notify the IRS so that eliminates another trip!
MONDAY – FRIDAY:09:00 AM – 04:00 PM Except Federal Holidays
Toll-Free 1-800-772-1213 TTY (209) 523-2665
Social Security Office Locator
Find an answer to this question by clicking on it: I need to change or correct the name on my Social Security card. How do I do this? *Link takes you to the Social Security website.
San Joaquin County – SOCIAL SECURITY
2122 W KETTLEMAN LANE, LODI, CA 95242
Local Number (209) 369-1942
San Joaquin County – SOCIAL SECURITY
3558 DEER PARK DRIVE, STOCKTON, CA 95219
Local Number (209) 946-6341
San Joaquin County – SOCIAL SECURITY
1009 S MAIN STREET, MANTECA, CA 95337
Local Number (209) 239-2046
Stanislaus County – SOCIAL SECURITY
1521 N CARPENTER RD, SUITE E1, MODESTO, CA 95351
Local Number (209) 523-2670
Merced County – SOCIAL SECURITY
600 WEST OLIVE AVE, MERCED, CA 95348
Local Number (209) 723-2072
Step Two – DMV
Make sure to schedule an appointment to avoid long waiting times. You will be able to upate your driver’s license and car registration at one time with your new name. If you are moving to a new address, you can change that as well.
The DMV has its own name changing checklist for you, please visit their site here:
California DMV Name Change Checklist
Step Three – Passport
Visit www.travel.state.gov if you need to change your name on a passport
Visit www.travel.state.gov if you are applying for your passport for the first time.
Step Four – Post Office
Visit your local post office to update your new name, as well as your new address, if applicable.
Step Five – Other Businesses
Informing banks, financial companies, insurance companies, and your place of employment among others will make for a smooth transition from your maiden to married name.