Name Change - from Chicago knottie "Noron"
Hi all -
I just finished the name change process today and thought maybe I could give some of you a hint of at least how long it took and what you need (I know I always wondered that; maybe someone else does, too!).
First, I went to the Social Security Office (the one on Lawrence, FYI). They just changed over to a new computer system today - lucky me! - and it took about an hour and 15 minutes. I'm guessing it'll be around 30 minutes when they understand how to work the new system. SS Office Note: bring your marriage certificate, driver's license and a completed SS-5 form(http://www.ssa.gov/online/ss-5.pdf). Also, if you're planning on using your maiden name as your middle name, make sure you tell them that! Also worth noting, a new Social Security card is free! It should be mailed to my house in a week or two.
Second, I went to the DMV (the Express one on Diversey). This only took me maybe 15 or 20 minutes, and cost $25. DMV Note: bring your marriage certificate, driver's license and STATE ID. I forgot my state ID and had to return home. If you don't have one, it's not a big deal - but if you do and don't bring it, they won't issue a license without it. Also worth noting, the DMV can update your voting record, so that was really helpful!
Next I went to my bank (Chase). I needed the marriage certificate and proof of my old name, so I probably could've done this first...although I kind of just gave him all my forms, so maybe he did look at my new IDs? Anyway, my H and I already had joined accounts before the wedding, so I could change my name and authorize them to send me a new card and us new checks. However, we both have to go back and update our signatures. For some reason, we must be together for this. I also changed my name on our mortgage - just a simple call to customer service and they're sending me a form.
For ComEd, I placed a call to their customer service and they updated my name over the phone. For People's Gas, I need to fax a copy of the marriage certificate and a letter stating my new name to 312.240.3991.
For my passport, I need to mail the old one, the marriage certificate, and two new photos with this form: http://www.state.gov/documents/organization/80142.pdf. Since my passport was issued a year or less ago, this is free for me.
PHEW! I think that's it. Sorry this is so long-winded but I really hope it helps someone! Let me know if you have any questions or if I left anything out!
I just finished the name change process today and thought maybe I could give some of you a hint of at least how long it took and what you need (I know I always wondered that; maybe someone else does, too!).
First, I went to the Social Security Office (the one on Lawrence, FYI). They just changed over to a new computer system today - lucky me! - and it took about an hour and 15 minutes. I'm guessing it'll be around 30 minutes when they understand how to work the new system. SS Office Note: bring your marriage certificate, driver's license and a completed SS-5 form(http://www.ssa.gov/online/ss-5.pdf). Also, if you're planning on using your maiden name as your middle name, make sure you tell them that! Also worth noting, a new Social Security card is free! It should be mailed to my house in a week or two.
Second, I went to the DMV (the Express one on Diversey). This only took me maybe 15 or 20 minutes, and cost $25. DMV Note: bring your marriage certificate, driver's license and STATE ID. I forgot my state ID and had to return home. If you don't have one, it's not a big deal - but if you do and don't bring it, they won't issue a license without it. Also worth noting, the DMV can update your voting record, so that was really helpful!
Next I went to my bank (Chase). I needed the marriage certificate and proof of my old name, so I probably could've done this first...although I kind of just gave him all my forms, so maybe he did look at my new IDs? Anyway, my H and I already had joined accounts before the wedding, so I could change my name and authorize them to send me a new card and us new checks. However, we both have to go back and update our signatures. For some reason, we must be together for this. I also changed my name on our mortgage - just a simple call to customer service and they're sending me a form.
For ComEd, I placed a call to their customer service and they updated my name over the phone. For People's Gas, I need to fax a copy of the marriage certificate and a letter stating my new name to 312.240.3991.
For my passport, I need to mail the old one, the marriage certificate, and two new photos with this form: http://www.state.gov/documents/organization/80142.pdf. Since my passport was issued a year or less ago, this is free for me.
PHEW! I think that's it. Sorry this is so long-winded but I really hope it helps someone! Let me know if you have any questions or if I left anything out!