What's In A Name??

Keeping Your Maiden Name
Women who have established a professional career using their maiden name may choose to continue using that name.  This is perfectly acceptable and legal in forty-nine states.  Hawaii, the exception, requires a woman to declare her 'married name' when signing the marriage license.

Using Both Names
It is possible for a woman to use her maiden name at work and career related functions, yet legally take her husband's surname.  The other option is to use the husband's name for social and family purposes, and legally keep her maiden name.

Hyphenating Your Name
This option requires a hyphen after the bride's maiden name followed by her husband's surname.   (For example: Lucy Carmichael becomes Lucy Carmichael-Ricardo)

Changing Your Name
Women opting to change their name both socially and legally, should address this matter upon returning from the honeymoon.   A request should be made for a separate credit history to be maintained under the bride's maiden name.  It is wise for a woman to keep one or two credit cards under her maiden name to maintain a credit rating in the event she is widowed or divorced.

Name Change Checklist

Auto Registration	Bank Accounts	Car Insurance	Credit Cards
Credit Reporting Agencies	Deeds	Doctor/Dental Records	Driver's License
Employee Records	Internal Revenue Service	Life Insurance Policy	Memberships
Passport	Post Office	Property Title	Savings Account(s)
Social Security Card	Stock Certificates	Voter Registration	Will
Other	Other	Other	Other