Name change kits

I got a gift card at my shower to Missnowmrs.com. I haven't used it yet, but FH's cousin who got married recently swears by it and she's the one who gave me the gift card.

Yes, changing your name is a pain in the butt. But do you really want to spend more money just to do it? I've always thought they seemed like a waste of money before I got married, and from the other side...I still think they are.

Actually, when I changed my name last time, it was a breeze. Sites like that are a waste of money.

I don't see the point of spending the money. I went to SSA last week and it took 1 1/2 hours which wasn't bad. Next up is DMV, but once that is done, it's just a matter of calling the bank. No big deal.

I've not looked into those, but I fail to see what they do that you cannot. Most places are so security sensitive you will still have to do all the work.

@Zoni.... I thought the same as you. Last time I changed my name, it was easy peasy. I think two weeks after the wedding I had everything done with no questions. It's been nearly two and a half months and I'm still struggling with it... every place I've gone, with the exception of the SS office, has been a fight and a half. I'm not entirely sure I'm going to be able to change my name on a few of my accounts due to the documentation they require.

I've heard that, depending on your state, it actually won't be much help, and that for a lot of things (like banks), it will generate a letter, but not get the actual name change form for that specific institution (leaving you to do the work anyway).

Even if you use a name change service, you still have to go through the steps yourself. They really just get you the paperwork you need, which you can easily get yourself.

Be at the social security office right when they open and you will be in and out. Then go to the DMV when your new card arrives and get that changed.

One important thing is to purchase a few extra raised seal marriage licenses from the place you got your original. Banks, insurance companies, and some other places need the raised seal to complete the change. There is a checklist on WW or the knot that shows you all the steps involved in the name change, which is basically what you would be paying a service to find for you

@Jess, can I ask why they're giving you problems? Last time, I took care of my SS card and drivers license first, and was told pretty much universally that they didn't need more than that to change my name. The only exception was my employer, who wanted to see a copy of the marriage certificate. I'm going to be doing the same this time, though I am a little uneasy because I'm in a different, much more rigid state (NY) and last time I was somewhere that might be a bit more lax.

You really don't need to spend the money on this. I woke up early and got a copy of my marriage certificate, went to the SS office, went to the bank, went to the DMV and was home by noon. I ate lunch and called my CC company and changed everything else online. The only thing I haven't done is my passport. The only thing those services provide is the forms: you still have to go to all the places. Not worth it.