From my 101 Things in 1001 Days list.
First and foremost, I had to obtain a certified copy of my marriage license. In my county, they DO NOT mail you a copy of your license after you have submitted it (after the wedding) and it has been processed. I had to either request it by mail, or go in person - I went in person. The process was quick and painless, actually.
I requested and purchased 5, but I definitely didn't need them. 1 or 2 would have been plenty.
After that, I headed to the Social Security Office with my old card, and my marriage certificate. They only took a copy of my license, asked a bunch of identification questions, told me my new card would arrive shortly, and sent me on my merry way.
Finally, I headed to the DMV, where I failed to realize they would take my picture. It was a very hot day, and I hadn't showered, and all my hair was pulled back. I was sweaty, and I looked sick and bald.
Beyond that, I contacted my credit card company, and my insurance company. I think the only thing that still has my maiden name is my car title - but I'll investigate that when I change my address (because I think you have to change those things at the DMV).
The biggest hassle was at the bank where I had to bring things home for Mike to sign, and show identification with my maiden name on it.
Overall - not bad. The people I worked with had done this many times before, and you could tell. They were efficient, and thorough. I thought it was going to be horrible, but it wasn't...at all.
What I AM still confused about are our taxes. From what I've gathered in my research is that we just FILE jointly when we do file for 2009. But don't we have to change my marital status on our W-4s? I asked my HR lady and she told me to talk to my tax preparer? Does anyone have any insight into this? Do we alter our W-4s at the beginning of 2010?
Jordan and I filed seperately, with my maiden name. This year we will file jointly. He did our taxes so I really don't know too much about it. Feel free to e-mail him with any questions.
ReplyDeleteGood job! I've heard this is a pain, but it seemed relatively simple.
ReplyDeleteWe went to H&R Block our first year after getting married bcause we were so confused (we had also moved to another state and switched jobs).
ReplyDeleteIn Illinois I was told you don't need to change your name on your car title. Since it costs money and I didn't have to do it, I didn't.
Oh I was told that by the DMV btw not just some random person :)
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I were married in June 2008. I didn't have to change my status on my W-4, and we filed jointly for the 2008 tax year.
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