So You Said "I Do" Now You Want to Change Your "Last Name, Too"? The Sunshine State and Your New Surname Shuffle
Congratulations! You've tied the knot, toasted with bubbly, and danced the night away. Now, amidst the post-wedding bliss, a question pops into your head: how much does this whole "changing-your-last-name" thing cost in the glorious state of Florida?
Fear not, lovebirds, for we're here to navigate the financial side of this name-change tango. But first, a word to the wise: while Florida might be known for its beaches, changing your last name won't exactly be a walk in the park (though there probably are some lovely parks you can stroll through with your new spouse!).
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| How Much Does It Cost To Change Your Last Name After Marriage In Florida |
Breaking Down the Buck$
Here's the nitty-gritty on the costs involved:
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- The Government Says "I Do" (For Free): Thankfully, there's no charge to get your Social Security name changed in Florida. That's a win right off the bat!
- The Sunshine State Says "Show Me the Money" This is where things get a little more, well, Sunshine State-y. You'll need to head to your local DHSMV (Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles) to get a new driver's license or state ID reflecting your new name. Here's the breakdown:
- New Driver's License: Buckle up for a $48 ride.
- New State ID: A slightly lighter $25 adventure.
Don't Forget the Extras!
While these are the main costs, remember, there might be a few other name-change tidbits to consider:
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- Certified Copies: Some places might require certified copies of your marriage certificate (think banks, credit card companies). These are usually a few bucks each.
- Patience is a Virtue (and Probably Saves You Money): While some online services promise to expedite the name-change process for a fee, tackling it yourself can save some cash. Just be prepared to spend some time gathering documents and filling out forms.
The Final Tally
So, how much will it all cost? Well, that depends on your driver's license needs and any unforeseen extras. But generally, you're looking at somewhere between $73 (new state ID + marriage certificate copy) and $121 (new driver's license + marriage certificate copy).
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Still Have Questions? FAQ to the Rescue!
- How to Change My Name at the DHSMV? You'll need to fill out a name change form, provide your marriage certificate, and show proof of residency, citizenship, and Social Security number.
- How Long Does it Take? The DHSMV name change process typically takes a few weeks.
- Do I Need a Lawyer? No, you generally don't need a lawyer to change your name after marriage in Florida.
- What About My Other Accounts (Bank, Credit Cards)? Contact each company directly to find their name-change procedures.
- Is There a Deadline to Change My Name? Nope! You can change your name at any time after marriage.
There you have it, folks! With a little planning and some spare change, you'll be rocking your new last name in no time. Now go forth and conquer that name-change jungle, Florida style!
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