Changing your name after marriage? You’ve probably seen the name change kits all over TikTok and Pinterest. They promise to “do it all for you” for $39 to $99+. But let me deinfluence you real quick:
You do not need to pay for a fancy service to change your name.
The truth? It’s tedious. But not complicated. And totally free if you’re willing to do a little legwork.
Here’s exactly how to change your name for free — step-by-step — and why you probably don’t need one of those pricey kits.
✋ Why You Don’t Need a Name Change Kit
- You’re not paying for legal advice — just convenience.
- They can’t fill out or file anything for you — they still need you to print, sign, and mail it all yourself.
- Most of the forms you need are publicly available online.
- Some companies charge more than the total filing fees, without disclosing that you’ll still owe government costs.
Unless you love spending $60 for a PDF you could download for free, skip it. You’re better off DIY-ing this. Here’s how.
✅ How to Legally Change Your Name for Free
NOTE: This guide assumes you’re changing your name due to marriage, which doesn’t require a court order in most states. If you’re doing a full legal name change (not tied to marriage), skip to the bottom section.
1. Get Your Certified Marriage Certificate
You’ll need:
- An original or certified copy (not just a scan or photo)
- From the county where your marriage was filed
Cost: Usually $5–$20 for a certified copy
Pro tip: Order two copies so you can send one by mail and keep one for in-person appointments.
2. Update Your Social Security Card (It’s Free!)
This is your first stop.
You’ll need:
- Form SS-5 (download from ssa.gov)
- Certified marriage certificate
- Photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
Mail or take it to your local SSA office.
Cost: Free
Processing time: 2–4 weeks
✦ Your SSN stays the same — they just update the name attached to it.
3. Update Your Driver’s License or State ID
Once your Social Security record is updated, head to the DMV.
Bring:
- Your new Social Security card (or receipt)
- Marriage certificate
- Current ID
Each state has its own form — check your DMV’s website.
Cost: Varies by state ($0–$35)
Pro tip: Ask if you need a new photo appointment.
4. Update Your Passport (Optional but Smart)
You’ll need to fill out either Form DS-82 or DS-11 depending on how recently your passport was issued.
Documents:
- Certified marriage certificate
- Current passport
- New passport photo
Cost:
– $0 if it’s within 1 year of issuance
– ~$130 if it’s expired or more than a year old
5. Update Your Name Everywhere Else
Here’s a list you can copy-paste:
- Bank accounts & credit cards
- PayPal, Venmo, Cash App
- IRS (Form 8822)
- Voter registration
- Insurance (health, auto, home)
- Utilities & internet
- Employer/payroll
- Airline loyalty programs
- Social media & email
- Health providers
- College alumni records
- Subscriptions (Amazon, Netflix, etc.)
🧾 Want to Change Your Name (Without Getting Married?)
That’s a legal name change, and it requires:
- Petitioning the court
- Paying a filing fee (usually $100–$400)
- A possible background check
- A court hearing
- Publishing your name change in a newspaper (required in some states)
It’s not free, but you can still DIY this without a lawyer or name change company.
Check your state court’s website for a downloadable packet and instructions.
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Change Your Name for Free
Don’t fall for the aesthetic packaging of those name change kits. They’re not giving you anything you can’t find yourself. If you can handle:
- Downloading forms
- Mailing things
- Visiting a few offices
You’re totally capable of changing your name without spending a dime (or at least, only what the government actually requires). You got this.
P.S. If you do want a name change kit, this is the only one I’d recommend.
Hope it helps!
xo
Emma
Tags:
name change, free name change, how to change name after marriage, how to change name legally, change your name for free, name change tips
