Changing your last name after your wedding can be tedious, and I dreaded it just like most people. I even considered buying one of those name-change kits to make things easier. But, as frugal as I am, I decided to do my research and tackle it myself.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on the things you’ll need to update after getting married. Keep in mind that I live in Hawaii, so your experience might vary depending on where you live.

Step 1: Get a Copy of Your Marriage Certificate

Your marriage certificate is the key to everything that follows.

When you sign your wedding certificate, have your officiant file it immediately—either online or via mail. Once filed, you’ll receive a temporary marriage certificate valid for a few months. You can start the name-change process with this document, but for official purposes, you’ll eventually need a certified copy.

If you need additional copies, you can order them online at Hawaii’s Marriage Certificate Portal. The first copy costs $10, and each additional copy is $4. Looking back, I didn’t need the four extra copies I ordered—one or two should be plenty.

Step 2: Update Your Social Security Card

Once you have your marriage certificate, head to the Social Security Administration (SSA) to update your name. Don’t worry this is free.

To update your social security card, you’ll need these required documents: A certified copy of your marriage certificate and a valid photo ID.

On Oahu, you can visit the SSA offices in Kapolei or Honolulu (Prince Kuhio Federal Building). Check the SSA checklist online for any additional requirements.

Step 3: Update Your Driver’s License or State ID

With your new Social Security card in hand, it’s time to update your driver’s license or state ID.

Yes, you’ll need an appointment—and it’s actually two separate appointments if you also need to update your car registration. Learn from my mistake: I thought I could do both at the same time, but I got turned away.

Appointments Needed:

• Satellite City Hall for car registration.
• Driver’s License Office for your ID or license update.

Step 4: Update Your Passport

Your updated driver’s license is a key document for renewing or updating your passport.

If your passport isn’t expired, you might be able to reuse your current photo. If it is expired, you’ll need to fill out an application online. I updated mine since it had expired, and getting a new passport photo was easy—I went to the photo department at Walgreens.

Step 5: Update Your Voter Registration

Don’t forget to update your voter registration. You can do this quickly online by visiting vote.gov.

Step 6: Update Your Name with USPS

While not mandatory, it’s a good idea to notify the United States Postal Service about your name change—especially if your mail carrier might get confused about who lives at your address. Fill out the form online. You can save a step and update your voter registration on their website too.

Step 7: Update Your Financial Accounts

This is where the real work begins.

It was at this point I realized just how many things had my name on it. In addition to my bank accounts, I had my credit cards, student loans, online savings account, and business accounts. Ugh. This step took a few months for me. So word to the wise – just get it over with.

Changing your name might seem overwhelming, but with a little organization and patience, you’ll get through it. Take it one step at a time, and before you know it, everything will reflect your new last name!