Changing Your Name After Marriage in Ontario
Congratulations on your marriage! Whether The Marry Men Wedding Officiants had the honour of officiating your wedding or not, we’re here to guide you through the next steps. One significant post-wedding task many couples consider is changing their name. This process can seem daunting, but we’ve broken it down into manageable steps to help you through it in Ontario.
Step 1: Decide on Your New Name
Before starting the legal process, it’s essential to decide on your new name. Common choices include:
- Taking your spouse’s last name
- Hyphenating both last names
- Combining both last names into a new one
- Keeping your original last name
Discuss these options with your spouse and make a decision that feels right for both of you.
Step 2: Obtain Your Marriage Certificate
To change your name, you’ll need a marriage certificate as proof of your new marital status. If you haven’t already done so, follow our guide to obtaining your marriage certificate in Ontario.
Step 3: Update Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a critical piece of identification, and it’s essential to update it with your new name. Here’s how:
Gather Required Documents:
Original marriage certificate
Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate, passport)
Visit a Service Canada Centre:
Bring your documents to the nearest Service Canada Centre.
You can find a location here.
Complete the Application:
Fill out the application form provided at the centre.
Step 4: Update Your Driver’s License
Updating your driver’s license is another crucial step. Here’s how to do it:
Visit a ServiceOntario Centre:
Bring your marriage certificate and current driver’s license to a ServiceOntario centre.
Complete the Application:
Fill out the application form for a name change.
You may need to pay a fee for a new license.
Receive Your Updated License:
Your new license will be issued with your updated name.
Step 5: Update Your Health Card
Next, update your Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card:
Visit a ServiceOntario Centre:
Bring your marriage certificate, current health card, and proof of residency (e.g., utility bill).
Complete the Application:
Fill out the necessary forms for a name change.
Receive Your Updated Health Card:
Your new health card will be issued with your updated name.
Step 6: Update Your Passport
To change your name on your passport, you will need to apply for a new one:
Gather Required Documents:
Original marriage certificate
Current passport
Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate)
Complete the Application:
Fill out the passport application form for a name change, available here.
Submit Your Application:
Submit the application and required documents to a passport office or by mail.
Pay the Fee:
A fee will be required for processing your new passport.
Step 7: Update Your Bank Accounts and Credit Cards
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your name change:
Visit Your Bank:
Bring your marriage certificate and current identification.
Complete the Required Forms:
Fill out any necessary forms to update your name on your accounts.
Receive New Cards:
New debit and credit cards will be issued with your updated name.
Step 8: Notify Other Organizations
Update your name with other organizations and institutions, such as:
- Employer and payroll department
- Insurance companies (health, auto, home, life)
- Utilities and service providers (phone, internet, cable)
- Professional associations and memberships
- Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for tax purposes
Tips for a Smooth Transition
- Make a Checklist: Create a list of all the organizations and institutions you need to notify of your name change.
- Keep Copies: Keep copies of your marriage certificate and any confirmation letters or emails from organizations that have updated your name.
- Plan Ahead: Some name changes may take longer than others, so start the process well before any important deadlines, such as travel plans or legal documents.
Changing your name after marriage in Ontario involves several steps, but with a bit of organization, it can be a smooth process. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at The Marry Men Wedding Officiants. We’re here to help make your transition as seamless as possible.
Congratulations again on your marriage, and best wishes for your new journey together!
Warmest regards,
Reverend Jason & Reverend Michael
The Marry Men