Changing your name after marriage, divorce, or a court order can feel like navigating a bureaucratic maze. Between Social Security cards, driver's licenses, passports, bank accounts, and dozens of other accounts, the process typically takes 13+ hours and involves multiple government agencies with varying requirements across all 50 states.
Name change services have transformed this tedious process into a streamlined experience. Rather than spending hours researching which forms you need, where to submit them, and in what order, these services provide personalized kits with pre-filled applications, state-specific instructions, and comprehensive guidance for updating everything from federal documents to loyalty programs.
In this comprehensive review, we've evaluated the leading name change services based on real customer experiences, verified pricing, feature comparisons, and overall value. Whether you're newly married, recently divorced, or have obtained a court order for a name change, this guide will help you choose the service that makes your name change journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Our Ranking Methodology
We evaluated each name change service using these weighted criteria:
- Product Quality & Comprehensiveness (25%): Coverage of federal and state forms, accuracy of instructions, database of personal accounts
- Ease of Use & Customer Experience (20%): Simplicity of process, clarity of instructions, quality of materials
- Value for Money (15%): Pricing relative to features, time savings, included conveniences
- Customer Satisfaction (15%): Verified reviews, response time, support quality
- State Coverage & Customization (10%): All 50 states supported, personalized to individual situations
- Delivery & Convenience (10%): Shipping speed, packaging quality, prepaid envelopes included
- Customer Support (5%): Availability, expertise, responsiveness
Quick Comparison Table
| Rank | Service | Rating | Starting Price | Delivery Format | Prepaid Envelopes | Database Coverage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | NewlyNamed | 4.9/5.0 | $49 | Digital or Physical | ✓ (Box option) | 3,000+ companies | Overall best experience |
| #2 | HitchSwitch | 4.5/5.0 | $69.99 | Digital or Physical | ✓ (Upgrades) | 10,000+ organizations | Extensive database access |
| #3 | NÉE | 4.4/5.0 | $89 | Physical Only | Included | Standard coverage | Luxury gift presentation |
| #4 | Easy Name Change | 4.3/5.0 | $79 | Both options | 3 included | Standard coverage | International service |
| #5 | Miss Now Mrs | 4.3/5.0 | $69.95 | Digital or Physical | Optional | Standard coverage | Established service |
| #6 | LegalShield | 4.3/5.0 | $26.95/month | Legal consultation | N/A | Legal advice only | Pre-approval legal help |
| #7 | Name Change Kit | 4.0/5.0 | $28.95 | Both options | No | Basic coverage | Budget-conscious buyers |
| #8 | US Legal Forms | 3.8/5.0 | $39.95+ | Digital downloads | No | Legal forms library | DIY legal documents |
Detailed Product Reviews
NewlyNamed
Starting at $49 (Print at Home) | $99 (NewlyNamed Box)
Best For: Anyone changing their name after marriage, divorce, or court order who wants the most comprehensive, user-friendly experience with exceptional customer support.
NewlyNamed stands out as the gold standard in name change services for good reason. Founded in 2018 by Colie Christensen after her own frustrating name change experience, NewlyNamed has helped over 500,000 customers navigate the process with ease. The service offers two package options: a digital Print at Home kit for $49 and the full NewlyNamed Box for $99, which includes printed forms with pre-addressed, prepaid envelopes delivered directly to your door.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Personalized Name Change Kit: Every kit is customized based on your specific situation, state requirements, and the accounts you need to update
- Comprehensive Coverage: Includes all federal forms (Social Security, Passport, IRS) and state-specific applications (Driver's License, Vehicle Title, Voter Registration, Professional Licenses)
- 3,000+ Organization Database: Step-by-step instructions for updating banks, credit cards, airlines, hotels, TSA PreCheck, loyalty programs, and more
- Pre-Filled Forms: Enter your information once and the software auto-fills all applicable forms, saving hours of repetitive data entry
- State-Specific Expertise: Covers all 50 states and Washington D.C. with instructions tailored to each state's unique requirements
- Prepaid Postage (Box Option): Pre-addressed and prepaid envelopes for major government submissions mean you can skip the post office entirely
- Dedicated Name Change Advisors: Personal support team available via email to answer questions throughout your process
- 100% Happiness Guarantee: Full satisfaction guarantee backing your purchase
What Makes NewlyNamed Unique: NewlyNamed excels in three critical areas. First, the attention to detail is unmatched. The service doesn't just give you forms—it provides clear, step-by-step instructions for every single document and account update, organized in the optimal order to complete your name change efficiently. Second, the user experience is thoughtfully designed, from the beautiful packaging (if you choose the Box option) to the intuitive online platform. Third, customer support is genuinely responsive, with team members answering questions quickly and thoroughly, even on weekends according to customer reviews.
The Process: Using NewlyNamed is refreshingly simple. After purchasing your chosen package, you'll fill out a brief online form with basic information (notably, they never ask for sensitive data like your Social Security number or account numbers). Within 1-2 business days, your Box ships with everything inside, or you get immediate digital access to your Print at Home kit. The materials include a detailed checklist, all necessary forms with many fields pre-filled, specific instructions for each submission, and guidance on updating personal accounts. Customers consistently report completing the entire process in a fraction of the time it would take independently.
Pros:
- Most user-friendly and comprehensive service
- Outstanding 4.8/5 star rating across 1,000+ verified reviews
- Excellent customer support with quick response times
- Best value at $49-$99 for the quality provided
- Beautiful, organized presentation
- Works for marriage, divorce, and court-ordered changes
- No subscription required—one-time purchase
Cons:
- Print at Home requires your own printer and supplies
- Cannot help you obtain initial court orders (you must already have marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order)
- Government fees for passports and licenses are separate
Customer Feedback
Customers rave about NewlyNamed's organization and clarity. One recent bride shared: "If you are on the fence about whether to buy this or not - BUY IT RIGHT NOW. I have been married for 3 weeks and I have 99% of it completed! Money VERY well spent." Another user noted the exceptional support: "I reached out to customer support because I needed extra help with changing my first name as well and they sent me so much information with links and instructions on a SATURDAY." A third customer emphasized the time savings: "I didn't have to research anything or find any forms. I also didn't know there were so many places I needed to change my name. I added like 45 companies to my kit. SO HELPFUL!"
Where to Buy: Available directly at newlynamed.com or as a gift card through wedding registries
HitchSwitch
$69.99 - $129.99
Best For: Users who want access to an extensive organizational database and don't mind paying more for additional perks like photo books and concierge support.
Founded in 2012 by Jake Wolff during his time at Fordham Law School, HitchSwitch was one of the pioneers in online name change services. The company offers four package tiers, ranging from a $39.99 Print at Home option to the $129.99 Platinum Plus package with comprehensive concierge support and keepsake photo books.
Key Features:
- Access to database covering 10,000+ organizations
- Auto-filled forms for major government documents
- Pre-stamped envelopes in higher-tier packages
- AI-powered form generation
- Passport photos included in premium tiers
- Shutterfly photo book in Platinum Plus
- Partnership with Engine travel platform
What Sets It Apart: HitchSwitch boasts the largest database of any name change service at 10,000+ organizations, which is impressive if you have numerous niche accounts to update. The Platinum packages include white-glove concierge service and extras like passport photos and commemorative photo books.
The Drawbacks: Recent customer reviews reveal concerning trends. Multiple users report outdated instructions, particularly about which forms need to be mailed versus submitted in person. Customer service response times have deteriorated, with some customers waiting weeks for replies or having to resort to social media to get attention. At $69.99-$129.99, HitchSwitch is also significantly more expensive than comparable services while delivering a less smooth experience.
Customer Feedback
Reviews are mixed. While some users praise the comprehensive database, others express frustration. One customer reported: "Got my package delivered but the inside was soaking wet, ruined and filled with bugs. Tried contacting customer service multiple times and they're avoiding me." Another noted: "The instructions were missing basic details like where to mail passport paperwork and what kinds of identification to include. I'm in a different state than my friend who used it in 2020, but her instructions were much more complete."
NÉE Name Change
$89 (Luxe Kit) | $39 (Digital Kit)
Best For: Brides who want an elevated, Instagram-worthy name change kit that doubles as a memorable keepsake or elegant bridal shower gift.
Founded in 2022 by Alex Goldney née Cassidy, NÉE reimagines the name change process as an aesthetic experience. This luxury-focused service emphasizes beautiful presentation with custom bridal covers, complimentary gift wrapping, and chic packaging designed to be shared on social media.
Key Features:
- Custom bridal covers with your names in elegant typography
- Complimentary gift wrapping and gift tags
- Instagram-worthy packaging and presentation
- Comprehensive step-by-step guide
- All required federal and state forms
- Digital option available at $39
What Makes It Special: If presentation matters to you, NÉE delivers. The custom covers feature your maiden and married names in beautiful design, and the entire package feels more like receiving a luxury gift than paperwork. This makes NÉE an excellent choice for gift-giving at bridal showers or as a thoughtful wedding present.
Considerations: At $89 for the physical kit, you're paying a premium for aesthetics over functionality. The actual forms and instructions are comparable to less expensive services. NÉE focuses primarily on brides changing their last name after marriage, so it's less suitable for other name change situations. The service is newer with less customer feedback history compared to established competitors.
Customer Feedback
Customers appreciate the upscale presentation and find the materials easy to follow. The service works well for its intended purpose—making the name change process feel special rather than tedious. However, some note that the premium price doesn't necessarily translate to superior instructions or support compared to more affordable options.
Easy Name Change
$79 (Print and Post) | $39 (Print at Home)
Best For: International customers or those comfortable with an Australian-based service that has served over 1 million users since 2008.
Easy Name Change has been around since 2008 and has processed name changes for over a million users. Based in Australia, the service caters to US customers with two straightforward package options.
Key Features:
- Simple two-package structure
- Auto-filled forms for major documents
- Three pre-stamped envelopes included in Print and Post
- Optional sensitive data entry (can be filled in by hand)
- A+ BBB rating with zero recent complaints
- Free preview of forms before purchasing
Advantages: Easy Name Change keeps things simple with just two packages and straightforward pricing. The service has maintained a stellar BBB rating and 4.8 stars on Trustpilot. Users appreciate the option to leave sensitive information blank in the digital forms and fill it in by hand after printing.
Drawbacks: Being based in Australia occasionally shows through with non-American spellings and a long-standing website typo. While customer service is available via email and live chat, response times may vary due to time zone differences. The database coverage is more limited compared to top competitors.
Customer Feedback
Most users find Easy Name Change reliable and straightforward to use. The service delivers what it promises without unnecessary complications. Some customers note that while it gets the job done, the experience doesn't feel as polished or comprehensive as newer, US-based competitors.
Miss Now Mrs
$69.95 (Premium) | $39.95 (Basic) | $179.95 (Ultimate)
Best For: Brides specifically, particularly those who started using MissNowMrs in the past and want to continue with a familiar service.
Operating since 2008, Miss Now Mrs (formerly MissNowMrs.com) was one of the original name change services. Founded by Danielle Tate, the service has helped over 400,000 newlyweds through the name change process.
Key Features:
- Mobile app with driver's license scanning
- Three package tiers with varying features
- Postage included in Premium package
- Ultimate package includes live chat support and budget planning tools
- A+ BBB rating
- Money-back guarantee (details not clearly specified)
Strengths: Miss Now Mrs pioneered many features now standard in the industry. The mobile app is convenient, and the company maintains good BBB standing. The Ultimate package at $179.95 includes extras like budgeting tools and enhanced support.
Concerns: Recent customer reviews are scarce, and the company's social media has gone quiet, raising questions about current activity levels. The branding remains bride-focused, making it less suitable for divorces or court-ordered changes despite technical capability. Support quality appears inconsistent based on available reviews.
Customer Feedback
Historical reviews are positive, with users praising the organization and time savings. However, the lack of recent feedback makes it difficult to assess current service quality. Some customers report the service works well but note that instructions can occasionally be generic rather than state-specific.
LegalShield
$26.95/month (annual billing) | $29.95/month (monthly billing)
Best For: Individuals who need legal consultation to obtain initial court approval for a name change, or those wanting ongoing legal services for other matters.
Founded in 1999, LegalShield takes a fundamentally different approach than other services on this list. Rather than providing forms and instructions for already-approved name changes, LegalShield is a legal membership service offering access to attorneys who can guide you through obtaining initial court orders.
Key Features:
- Access to network of provider attorneys
- Consultation on unlimited legal issues
- Legal forms and document review
- Attorney-created wills and living wills
- Letters and calls on your behalf
- Monthly membership (not one-time purchase)
Important Distinction: LegalShield helps you get your name change approved through the court system—it doesn't help you update all your documents afterward. If you're changing your name after marriage or divorce (where you already have the necessary legal documents), LegalShield isn't the right choice. It's designed for situations requiring court petitions, such as personal name changes not related to marriage or divorce.
Value Consideration: At $26.95-$29.95 monthly, LegalShield makes sense if you need ongoing legal support beyond just name changes. For a one-time name change after marriage or divorce, you'll pay $53.90-$59.90 for two months (assuming you cancel after your name change is complete), which is comparable to other services. However, you're getting legal consultation rather than the hands-on form preparation and update tracking other services provide.
Customer Feedback
LegalShield maintains solid ratings (A+ BBB, 4.6 stars on Trustpilot) for their legal services overall. Customers appreciate having attorney access for affordable monthly fees. However, for name change specifically, users note that LegalShield's assistance focuses on the initial legal approval, leaving customers to handle the subsequent document updates on their own.
Name Change Kit
$18.95 - $79.95
Best For: Budget-conscious individuals who want basic forms without digital conveniences or extensive support.
Name Change Kit, operated by KitBiz, has been in business for over 20 years, making it one of the oldest services in the industry. The company offers situation-specific kits for brides, newlyweds (both partners), divorce, and general legal name changes.
Key Features:
- Four specialized kits for different situations
- Very affordable pricing ($18.95 DIY for bride kit)
- Printed versions available ($28.95-$39.95)
- Pre-addressed envelope labels included
- State-specific documentation
Advantages: Name Change Kit wins on price, with DIY options starting at just $18.95. If you're comfortable handling most of the process yourself and just need the right forms, this budget option can work.
Limitations: The service feels dated compared to modern competitors. There's no auto-filling of forms, limited online tools, and minimal automation. Instructions are more basic, requiring more initiative from users. Customer support is less responsive than newer services. The experience lacks the polish and hand-holding that makes premium services worth their higher prices.
Customer Feedback
Customers acknowledge Name Change Kit provides the essentials at low prices. However, many note that the time savings are minimal compared to doing it entirely yourself for free. The service provides forms and basic guidance but doesn't dramatically simplify the process like competitors do.
US Legal Forms
Starting at $39.95
Best For: People needing various legal forms beyond name changes, or those who prefer a broad legal forms library.
US Legal Forms operates as a comprehensive legal documents database with over 85,000 state and industry-specific forms. Name change is just one small category within their extensive catalog.
Key Features:
- Access to 85,000+ legal forms
- State-specific documents
- Form preview before purchase
- Attorney-prepared documents
- 100% money-back guarantee
The Reality: US Legal Forms is designed as a document library, not a name change service. You'll find forms but minimal guidance on the name change process itself. There's no personalization, no pre-filling, no step-by-step instructions tailored to your situation. The website can be overwhelming to navigate with its massive form catalog.
When It Makes Sense: US Legal Forms works if you need multiple types of legal documents for different purposes. For name change alone, dedicated name change services provide dramatically better experiences for comparable or even lower prices.
Customer Feedback
Users appreciate the breadth of forms available and the ability to ensure state-specific compliance. However, for name changes specifically, customers find the experience fragmented and requiring significant self-direction compared to specialized name change services.
How to Choose the Right Name Change Service
| Factor | What to Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensiveness | Coverage of federal forms (Social Security, Passport, IRS), state documents (Driver's License, Vehicle Registration), and personal accounts database | The average person needs to update their name in 30+ places. A comprehensive service ensures you don't miss critical updates that could cause problems later. |
| Personalization | Forms pre-filled with your information, state-specific instructions, customized to your situation (marriage vs. divorce vs. court order) | Saves hours of repetitive data entry and ensures accuracy. State requirements vary significantly, so generic instructions can lead to rejected applications. |
| Ease of Use | Clear step-by-step instructions, logical ordering of tasks, visual organization (checklists, folders, labeled sections) | Name changes involve multiple government agencies with different processes. Good organization prevents confusion and keeps you on track. |
| Customer Support | Responsive email support, actual experts (not just generic customer service), available when you have questions | You'll likely have situation-specific questions. Quality support can save you from costly mistakes or wasted time. |
| Convenience Features | Prepaid postage, pre-addressed envelopes, passport photos included, everything printed and ready to sign | These conveniences save trips to the post office, print shop, and photo studio. Calculate whether the time savings justify any price premium. |
| Price vs. Value | Consider time saved (typical DIY takes 13+ hours), convenience features included, and quality of instructions | The cheapest option isn't always the best value. A $50 service that saves you 10 hours is worth $5/hour of your time—likely worth it for most people. |
| Reputation | Recent verified reviews (not just ratings from years ago), BBB rating, responsiveness to complaints, social media activity | Name change companies can deteriorate over time. Recent reviews indicate current quality, while old reviews may reflect a service that no longer operates at that standard. |
Key Questions Buyers Ask
What should I look for when choosing a name change service?
Prioritize comprehensiveness, ease of use, and current customer satisfaction. The service should cover all major government documents (Social Security, Passport, Driver's License) plus provide guidance for updating personal accounts. Look for pre-filled forms that save you time, clear instructions specific to your state, and responsive customer support. Check recent reviews (within the last 3-6 months) to ensure the company maintains quality standards, as some previously excellent services have declined over time.
How much should I expect to spend on a name change service?
Quality name change services range from $39-$99 for comprehensive kits. Services under $30 typically provide only basic forms without much guidance. Services over $100 often include luxury packaging or legal consultation services that may not be necessary for straightforward marriage or divorce name changes. The sweet spot is $49-$99 for services that include personalized forms, detailed instructions, and quality support. Remember that government fees (passport renewal, driver's license, etc.) are separate and typically add $100-$200 to your total cost.
What's the difference between Print at Home and full-service physical kits?
Print at Home kits ($39-$49) give you instant digital access to all your personalized forms and instructions, which you print yourself and gather your own envelopes and postage. Full-service physical kits ($69-$99) ship to your door with everything printed professionally, often including pre-addressed envelopes and prepaid postage for major submissions. Choose Print at Home if you have a good printer, don't mind a trip to the post office, and want to save $30-50. Choose the physical kit if you value convenience and want everything ready to sign and mail without extra errands.
Will a name change service work for my situation?
Most name change services work for three situations: marriage, divorce, and court-ordered changes. For marriage and divorce, you just need your marriage certificate or divorce decree—the service handles everything else. For other types of name changes (like transitioning gender or simply preferring a different name), you first need to obtain a court order approving your name change, then use the service to update all your documents. Services like LegalShield help you get the initial court approval, while services like NewlyNamed, HitchSwitch, and others help you update everything once you have approval.
How long does the name change process take?
With a good name change service, you can complete the paperwork in 2-4 hours (versus 13+ hours DIY). However, processing times vary by agency: Social Security takes 2 weeks, driver's licenses are same-day if done in person, passports take 4-6 weeks (or 2-3 weeks expedited), and various personal accounts update immediately to several weeks. Plan for the entire process to span 4-8 weeks from start to finish, though you'll have your most critical documents (Social Security card, driver's license) within 2-3 weeks.
Do these services work in all states?
Reputable services like NewlyNamed, HitchSwitch, and Easy Name Change cover all 50 states plus Washington D.C. However, state requirements vary significantly—what works in California differs from New York or Texas. This is why state-specific instructions are crucial. When evaluating services, confirm they explicitly state they cover your state and provide state-specific guidance, not just generic federal forms.
Can I change my name without using a service?
Yes, absolutely. Everything these services provide can be obtained free from government websites. The trade-off is time versus money. DIY typically takes 13+ hours of research, form hunting, and figuring out the proper order and requirements. You risk making mistakes that delay processing or require resubmissions. Name change services cost $39-$99 but compress the process to 2-4 hours, provide expert guidance, and reduce error risk. Most people find the time savings and peace of mind worth the cost, but the DIY route works if you're patient and thorough.
What's not included in the service price?
Name change services cover their instructions, forms, and guidance—not government fees. Expect to pay separately for: passport renewal ($130 standard, $190 expedited), driver's license renewal ($20-$90 depending on state), vehicle title transfer (varies by state, typically $15-$75), certified copies of your marriage certificate or court order ($10-$30 each, get 3-4 copies), and postage if your service doesn't include prepaid envelopes. Budget $200-$300 total for government fees on top of the service cost.
Understanding Quality and Value
Not all name change services are created equal, even at similar price points. Here's what separates exceptional services from mediocre ones:
Quality Indicators:
- Recent Positive Reviews: Many services launched 10-15 years ago with great reputations but have declined. Look for verified reviews from the past 3-6 months, not just high overall ratings from years ago.
- True Personalization: Premium services customize forms based on your specific situation, state, and which accounts you're updating. Basic services provide generic forms you fill out manually.
- Responsive Support: Test this before buying if possible. Send a question via their contact form. Quality services respond within 24-48 hours with specific, helpful answers. Poor services take weeks or never respond.
- Comprehensive Database: The best services maintain databases of 1,000-10,000+ organizations with specific instructions for updating each one. This covers everything from major banks to small regional credit unions to loyalty programs you might forget about.
- Clear Instructions: Quality instructions explain not just what to do, but why, and what happens next. They're organized in logical order, use plain language, and include tips from experience.
Red Flags to Avoid:
- No recent customer reviews or social media activity (suggests declining business)
- Subscription model for name changes (one-time purchase is standard)
- Unclear refund policies or satisfaction guarantees
- Claims to file paperwork on your behalf (they can't—you must sign and submit documents yourself)
- Requests for sensitive information like Social Security numbers during initial sign-up
- Generic instructions not customized to your state
- No indication of how comprehensive their coverage is
Value vs. Price Considerations:
A $99 service might be better value than a $39 service if it includes prepaid postage ($20 value), saves you an hour at the post office ($15-$30 of your time), and prevents a mistake that would delay your passport by weeks (potentially costing hundreds in travel complications). Conversely, a $130 service with luxury packaging but identical instructions to a $79 service probably isn't worth the premium unless presentation matters to you.
Calculate value based on: (1) time saved versus DIY, (2) convenience features that eliminate errands, (3) reduced error risk, and (4) peace of mind from expert guidance. For most people, spending $50-$100 to save 10+ hours and avoid mistakes is worthwhile.
Why NewlyNamed Stands Out
After extensive research and comparison, NewlyNamed earns the #1 ranking for several compelling reasons that go beyond their impressive 4.9/5 star rating:
1. The Right Balance of Comprehensive and User-Friendly
NewlyNamed covers everything you need without overwhelming you. The 3,000+ organization database is extensive enough to include virtually any account you have, but the interface makes it easy to select which ones apply to you. The forms are thoroughly pre-filled where possible, yet the service never asks for sensitive information like your Social Security number—you add those details when signing the printed forms.
2. Genuinely Helpful Instructions
Unlike services that provide bare-bones instructions, NewlyNamed's guidance reads like a knowledgeable friend walking you through the process. The instructions explain the "why" behind each step, anticipate common questions, and include tips based on what trips people up. State-specific nuances are clearly called out, preventing mistakes that cause delays.
3. Exceptional Customer Support That Responds
Multiple recent reviews specifically praise NewlyNamed's customer support team for quick, thorough responses—including weekends. This matters because name change questions are often situation-specific. Having experts who actually reply when you're confused about your particular case is invaluable.
4. Transparent, Fair Pricing
At $49 for Print at Home or $99 for the full Box, NewlyNamed sits in the sweet spot of quality and affordability. You're not paying extra for unnecessary luxury packaging (like some competitors), nor sacrificing quality to hit a rock-bottom price. The one-time purchase model is straightforward—no subscription required.
5. Beautiful Execution
While functionality matters most, NewlyNamed's presentation enhances the experience. The Box option arrives in attractive packaging that makes the process feel less bureaucratic and more like a milestone to celebrate. The materials are organized logically with clear labeling, tabs, and color coding. Everything feels intentional and polished.
6. Proven Track Record with Recent Success
With over 500,000 customers since 2018, NewlyNamed has substantial experience. More importantly, their recent reviews (dozens from the past few weeks) maintain the same high quality as their earlier ones. Many competing services that were excellent years ago have declined, but NewlyNamed continues delivering consistent results.
7. Works for Multiple Situations
Unlike services focused exclusively on brides, NewlyNamed handles marriage, divorce, and court-ordered name changes equally well. The service adapts to your situation without making you feel like you're using a tool designed for someone else's circumstance.
Ready to Change Your Name?
NewlyNamed makes the process simple, comprehensive, and stress-free. Join over 500,000 satisfied customers who've made their name change official with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change just my first name or middle name?
Yes, but the process differs. If you're changing your first or middle name after marriage (and your marriage certificate lists your new first/middle name), name change services can help. For first or middle name changes unrelated to marriage, you'll need a court order first. Services like NewlyNamed can help you update documents once you have the court order, but they can't help you obtain the initial order.
What if I want to hyphenate my last name or use both last names?
Most name change services accommodate various last name structures: taking your spouse's last name entirely, hyphenating, using both last names unhyphenated, or moving your maiden name to your middle name. During setup, you'll specify your desired new name structure, and the service personalizes everything accordingly.
Do I need multiple certified copies of my marriage certificate?
Yes, get 3-4 certified copies. Some agencies (like passport) require mailing original certified copies, which they return but not immediately. Having multiple copies lets you work on several updates simultaneously rather than waiting weeks between each one. Certified copies cost $10-$30 each from your county clerk's office.
Will my old name still be valid for travel?
This is critical: your airline ticket name must match your ID exactly. If you've changed your name legally but haven't updated your ID yet, book travel under your old name. Once you have updated ID (driver's license and/or passport), use your new name for all bookings. Never book with one name while carrying ID with another name—you'll be denied boarding.
How do I update my Social Security card?
Social Security is always your first step after receiving your marriage certificate or court order. You can either mail in the application or visit a Social Security office in person (faster—usually same day). You'll need your completed application (provided by the name change service), original or certified marriage certificate or court order, and government-issued ID. The service is free, and you'll receive your new card in about 2 weeks.
Conclusion
Changing your name doesn't have to be the overwhelming, bureaucratic nightmare it once was. Modern name change services have transformed the process into something manageable, even straightforward. The key is choosing a service that matches your needs, budget, and preference for convenience.
For most people, NewlyNamed offers the ideal combination of comprehensive coverage, user-friendly experience, responsive support, and fair pricing. At $49-$99, it's an investment that saves you 10+ hours of work, prevents costly mistakes, and gives you confidence that you haven't forgotten any critical updates. Over 500,000 customers have successfully changed their names using NewlyNamed, with new five-star reviews added weekly.
That said, alternatives have their place. If you value access to the absolute largest database, HitchSwitch's 10,000+ organization coverage might be worth the higher price despite customer service concerns. If presentation matters for gifting purposes, NÉE delivers luxury packaging that makes a statement. Budget-conscious shoppers can save with Name Change Kit or DIY the process entirely using free government resources.
Whatever you choose, start the process early. Don't wait until you need travel documents urgently or face a deadline. Name changes take 4-8 weeks from start to finish, even with excellent services streamlining the paperwork. Give yourself time to handle each step without stress.
The name change marks a significant moment in your life. With the right service supporting you, it can be a smooth, even enjoyable process rather than a source of frustration. NewlyNamed and the other quality services reviewed here exist to make that possible.
Make Your Name Change Official
Don't spend hours hunting for forms and figuring out complex requirements. Let NewlyNamed's proven system guide you through every step with confidence.
Start Your Name Change Journey →
