From Ms to Mrs: How to Change the Name on Your Credit Card After Marriage

With the wedding and honeymoon behind you, it’s time to begin your new life with your spouse. How exciting to see your new name written on wedding cards and gifts! Then you realize that you need to make your name change official.

If you regularly make purchases using your credit cards, you may be wondering how to change the name on your credit card after marriage. 

Table of contents

• What are the advantages of changing the name on your credit card after marriage?

• How to change the name on a credit card after marriage

• How long does it take to change the name on your credit card after marriage?

• Will changing the name on your credit card affect your credit score?

What are the advantages of changing the name on your credit card after marriage?

While you may not be required to change the name on your credit card after you get married, here are a few reasons to consider doing so.

1. Reflects your new marital status and identity

Taking your partner’s last name when you get married can symbolize the start of your new life together. Changing your name doesn’t take away your individuality; instead, your new name identifies you as part of a family.  

2. Helps prevent confusion and potential problems during credit card usage

A different name on your credit card than the driver’s license or other identification may prove problematic. If fraud is possible, a merchant may ask to see your ID. When the names don’t match, the merchant could deny your purchase. 

3. Easier for financial institutions and merchants to identify and verify your identity

When all financial and credit card accounts reflect your new name, it can make it easier for banks or merchants to spot fraudulent activity under a different name. Plus, you don’t have two different names to keep tabs on if someone steals your identity. 

4. All your financial records and documents are consistent

Placing all bank and credit card accounts in your married name can make it easier to manage your finances. Having all accounts in your married name can lessen confusion with your credit reports. You’ll also have less explaining to do if you try to take out a mortgage or open additional accounts. 

How to change the name on a credit card after marriage

To change your name on a credit card after you get married, you’ll need to do the following.

1.  Update your government-issued IDs

Before you can change your name on your credit cards after you’ve been married, you need to change your name on your official documents, such as your driver’s license, passport, and Social Security card.

Updating government-issued documents can be a tedious task. Save time by checking online or contacting your local agency to determine which forms you must complete. You may need to supply documents such as your marriage and birth certificates to change your name, so it’s a good idea to ask what is necessary. Some entities, like your local DMV or Social Security Administration, may only change your name when you visit in person. Other agencies may ask you to mail in your forms and supporting documents. 

2. Notify credit card companies

Every credit card company has its own policies for name changes. You should notify the credit card company that your name has changed and ask what you need to do to update your account. 

3. Gather required documents

Credit card companies will likely ask for government-issued documents that reflect your new name, such as a driver’s license or passport. The issuer might also ask to see your marriage license or Social Security card or request documents to verify your address, such as a utility bill. 

4. Submit requirements

Name change requirements vary by issuer. Some credit card companies may let you change your name and submit documents securely online. Other issuers may ask you to mail in a completed form with your documents or require you to change your name in person at a local branch.   

How long does it take to change the name on your credit card after marriage?

Most credit card issuers ask you to supply government-issued identification with your new name. Changing your name on your Social Security card, driver’s license, or passport could take a few weeks, if not longer.

Once your identifying documents reflect your new name, changing the name on your credit card could take a few days or weeks. The time it takes to change your name on your credit card depends on the issuer. 

Will changing the name on your credit card affect your credit score?

Getting married and changing your name has no impact on your credit score. Your credit history is associated with your Social Security number. So, your spouse’s credit cards aren’t added to your credit history, nor will your cards be added to theirs. It is a good idea to update your personal information with the credit bureau when your name changes.

Your credit score could change if you open a joint account with your spouse later. 

Avoid the Hassle and Update Your Credit Card Name After Marriage

Changing the name on your credit cards may seem time-consuming, but there are plenty of good reasons to make the switch. You avoid the hassle of explaining why your credit card has a different name than your ID. You also can avoid the embarrassment of having your purchases declined because a merchant can’t verify your identity. 

FAQs 

Is there a fee for changing my name on my credit card after marriage?

Credit card companies have different policies for charging fees. It’s best to ask your issuer if they charge a fee to change your name or issue you a new card. 

What happens if I don’t change my name on my credit card after marriage?

The credit card company may not require that you change the name on your credit card after you get married. However, you could run into issues making purchases when the name on your credit card is different from your government-issued ID. Changing your name on your card can help avoid the hassle of proving your identity when you try to buy something. 

Can I change my name on multiple credit cards at once?

Every credit card issuer has its own requirements for making name changes. You must hold multiple cards with the same creditor to be able to change your name on multiple credit cards during the same process, but you can call the other card issuers afterward.