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As a newlywed, the pain and frustration of actually changing my name is fresh in my mind. Not only did I have the great debate as to whether or not to actually change my name, but once I decided to go the traditional route and take my husband's name, the headache of finding my way through all the red tape was almost more than I could bear. For those of you out there preparing to wed the man of your dreams and take his name, here a few things to remember that will make your task much easier:

1. Gather your paperwork. You will need an offical copy of your birth certificate (www.vitalcheck.com), your driver's license or state ID card, your social security card (www.ssa.gov), and an offical copy of your marriage certificate (this should come in the mail a week or so after you are married, but you can also request copies at www.vitalcheck.com).

2. Plan to take off one day mid-week two to three weeks after your wedding. Making sure to take an entire day off in the middle of the week not only ensures shorter lines to stand in, but will help you keep your sanity and feel less rushed and frustrated when dealing with government workers.

3. Get your Social Security Card first. Plan to be at the SSA office early to beat the crowds. You can find your local SSA office and hours of operation at https://s044a90.ssa.gov/apps6z /FOLO/fo001.jsp.

4. Go directly to your local DMV office and change your name on your driver's license. It can be tricky juggling both of these offices in the same day, but making sure you start your day early will definitely help. Also, try suburbian DMV offices. Usually, these are much less crowded and have extended hours to serve you better.

5. Maximize your time by phoning your insurance companies (Car, home, health, life) while your are in line at other offices. Be sure to note what copies (if any) of paperwork that you need to send to them and drop them in the mail on your way home at the end of the day.

6. Make sure to find out what procedures you have to take to change your name at school and/or work. If possible, deal with these matters while in line at other offices too. Otherwise, plan to visit these locations on the same day as well.

7. Swing by the bank and change your name on all of your accounts. If you intend on having a joint account with your new hubby, he may need to be present. This would be a good time to meet your husband for a romantic lunch and enjoy his company.

8. Schedule something to celebrate your new name in the afternoon (lunch with other married friends, a massage, a trip to the salon or spa, etc.) and practice using your married name in public. Revel in the luxury of being able to introduce yourself as Mrs. So-and-So.

If you play your cards right, you could be home taking a nap or enjoying a favorite hobby by early afternoon. Congratulations!

Learn more about this author, Jessica Kaaz.
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