After the big day, after the honeymoon, you'll eventually begin to settle back into what is known as 'normal life'. Unfortunately, in normal life, there is paperwork. You'd be surprised how much paperwork is generated simply by getting married!

If you decide to take your husband's name, or if you both decide to adopt a double-barrelled name, we hope you find this information helpful.

On getting married you will receive a Marriage Certificate. This document legally entitles you to change your surname to that of your husband's (as it appears on the marriage certificate). You will need to send your marriage certificate along with an accompanying letter to any person or organisation who has an interest in your identity, explaining that you wish from here onwards to be referred to by your new name.

When you notify the Passport Office and the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) they will request that you send your original marriage certificate, therefore it might be advisable to obtain several marriage certificates on your wedding day. Most other organisations, if they do request you marriage certificate, will accept a photocopy.

You will find below a list of organisations that you will need to inform about your name change. If you are moving house or getting a joint bank account, you will also need to inform them of your new address and bank details.

• Employer
• HMRC (Revenue and Customs) for tax and NI records (obtain your reference and tax office address from your employer)
• Bank (mortgage and/or saving accounts)
• Building Society (mortgage and/or saving accounts)
• Credit card companies Finance/loan companies
• Local Authority (Council tax and register of electors)
• Department of Work and Pensions (if you are entitled to any benefits)
• Police (if you have any criminal actions against you or are on the Sex Offenders' Registry)
• HM Land Registry (if you own land or property)
• Pension providers
• Passport Office (apply for a name passport)
• DVLA (apply for a new drivers license)
• Motoring organisations (breakdown organisations)
• Utility services (ie. Gas, electricity, water and sewerage providers)
• Telephone provider
• Internet provider
• Mobile phone provider
• Royal Mail Insurance companies (buildings, life, motor, endowments, contents etc.)
• Premium Bonds Office
• Mail-order companies
• Doctor
• Dentist
• Vets (if applicable)
• TV license Office
• School/college/university
• Professional Institutes and bodies
• Library Clubs, societies and associations
• Magazine subscriptions
• If either or both of you have a will, this should be reviewed after you are married

If you decide to change your name after marriage, or if you require a double-barrelled surname, you will find useful information on Deedpoll.com and at www.deedpoll.org.uk

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