Name change checklist

What's inside

1. Update your primary ID first

   Do this first and promptly — many countries fine you for delaying. Every other document below gets updated based on this new ID, so it has to come first.

2. Make copies of the marriage certificate

   Keep the original safe and make several certified copies or cloud scans — this is the one document that proves the link between your old and new name everywhere.

3. Update your international passport

   Your old passport with any visas in it becomes invalid under the new name — if you have upcoming trips on open visas, plan around them before applying for the new one.

4. Update your national insurance record

   The underlying number usually stays the same — only the name on record changes, typically through your employer or government portal.

5. Update your health insurance

   A policy under your old name can cause issues at appointments — update it with your insurer as soon as the ID change is done.

6. Update your tax ID record

   The number itself doesn't change, only the certificate showing your name — request an updated one from your tax authority.

7. Replace your driver's license

   A license under your old name is no longer valid — don't put this off if you plan on driving soon.

8. Update your vehicle registration

   Vehicle registration is tied to the owner's name — update it with your local motor vehicle authority once your ID is changed.

9. Update your car insurance

   Your car insurance policy is on file under the old name — notify the insurer, otherwise a claim could get complicated.

10. Update every bank you use

    Cards, account details, autopay — each bank separately, and a new card can take a few days to arrive. Start with whichever bank runs your recurring bills.

11. Notify your employer

    HR needs to update your employment record, and payroll needs the new name for taxes and pay — don't assume they'll find out on their own.

12. Leave diplomas and degrees as they are

    These stay in your old name — just attach the marriage certificate (or name change certificate) as proof whenever the document is requested.

13. Check any tickets booked under the old name

    Rules vary by airline — some accept the marriage certificate at check-in, others require the ticket reissued in advance. Check with the carrier before travel.

14. Check property documents

    No urgent need to reissue anything — ownership is backed by the marriage or name-change certificate. But expect it to come up at your next sale or transaction.

15. Update subscriptions, deliveries and accounts

    Delivery recipient names, accounts tied to your legal name, messaging apps, loyalty programs — small things, but there are a lot of them, so go through them as a list.

16. Reissue any powers of attorney

    A power of attorney under your old name can be challenged or rejected — reissue any that are still in use.