How to Legally Change your Name in Alabama
by BamaBride.com

Changing your name after marriage in Alabama isn't difficult, but it can be tedious.

Here are the steps to take to legally change your name:

• Visit your local Social Security Office to change your name on your social security account. You will need to bring your current social security card, an original certified marriage license, and a photo id. 

To speed things along at the Social Security Office, download and print the SS-5 Form and have it filled out before your visit the office.

To find your local Social Security Office, search at https://s044a90.ssa.gov/apps6z/FOLO/fo001.jsp. There is no fee to change your name at the Social Security Office. 

• Take the printout from the Social Security office, along with your certified marriage license to the Department of Motor Vehicles. (Where you usually go to get your driver's license). Let them know you have gotten married and would like to change your name on your driver's license. There is usually a $20-$25 fee for your new driver's license.
• If you have any motor vehicles registered in your name, you will want to change your name on your vehicle registration - you can do this while you are at the Dept of Motor Vehicles for your driver's license. There is an estimated $25.00 fee for each vehicle. Keep in mind, this will probably change the month your car tags must be renewed.
• Next you should visit your banker to change your name on your bank accounts. You will most likely need your new temporary driver's license, social security printout, as well as a copy of your marriage license. You should request new checks and new check cards with your married name printed on them.
• To change your name on most utilities, credit cards, and other similar accounts, you can usually mail a letter with a copy of your marriage license (original not required), a copy of your new driver's license, as well as a letter requesting your name be changed on your account. Be sure to provide them with your account number and mailing address so they may verify your identity. In your letter, request a new card be issued with your new name.
• You should update your records with your employer as soon as possible. This should include your W-2 form, I-9 Form, and A-4 Form. You will also need to update your information on your insurance and other benefit plans.
• If you are moving, be sure to request mail forwarding from your post office. Change of Address forms are available at the counter of your local post office.
• If you are moving, you will also want to file a Change of Address form with the IRS. You can obtain this form at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8822.pdf.

Here is a helpful name change check list:

[ ] Social Security Administration

[ ] Department of Motor Vehicles for Drivers License and Motor Vehicle Registration

[ ] Bank for Checking, Savings, and Loan Accounts

[ ] Lease/Mortgage

[ ] Utilities

[  ] Cell Phone

[  ] Credit Cards

[  ] Studen Loans / Other Personal Loans

[ ] Auto Loans

[ ] Patient Files - be prepared to fill out new paperwork when you visit your doctor. Be sure to request new Insurance cards when updating your information with your employer.

[ ] Employer Records, W-2, Insurance and other Benefit plans

[ ] Change of Address with IRS

[  ] Change of Address with Post Office

Resources:
http://revenue.irs.gov
http://irs.gov

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