​Your information and cybersecurity are our top priorities. For this reason, we never collect any sensitive or identifiable information from our clients, such as your Social Security number, Passport number, Driver's License number, or parental information.

Instead, with your HitchSwitch order, we'll provide clear instructions explaining exactly where you'll manually add that sensitive information to the application forms yourself, before submitting them to each government or state agency. The only details we ask for are those typically found through a basic social media or White Pages search. 

Additionally, our SSL certificate and cybersecurity are monitored 24/7, not just by our development team, but also through an outside firm whose clients include major companies like Google, Amazon, and ExxonMobil.

All data submitted through our EasyForm is protected using SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption, ensuring that your information is encrypted during transmission. For storage, we adhere to stringent security protocols, and as mentioned, we avoid storing highly sensitive personal identifiers to minimize risk. Our cybersecurity measures are continuously monitored by both our internal team and a reputable third-party firm. Furthermore, to ensure ongoing stability and security, we delete customer information every few years.

Absolutely not! We only collect basic information necessary to autofill your forms, such as your current and new name, address, and contact details.

We specifically do not collect sensitive data like your Social Security number, passport number, driver's license number, or parental information. This sensitive data is always added by you directly onto the forms before submission to the relevant agencies.

Every HitchSwitch package streamlines your name change by providing auto-filled forms and easy-to-follow instructions for key agencies: 

1. Social Security Administration,
2. U.S. Passport,
3. Department of Motor Vehicles (covering your Driver’s License and Vehicle Title/Registration),
4. Voter Registration
   
5. IRS.
6. You'll also get access to the forms and guidance you need to update your name with numerous popular services and companies, including credit card providers, airlines, streaming platforms, and your social media profiles.​

As a valued Platinum+ customer,  you'll receive a complimentary 20-page Shutterfly Photo Book, a $50 value! Photo Book! This is a special bonus we've arranged through our partnership with Shutterfly, allowing you to create a beautiful keepsake of your memorable moments. After your HitchSwitch purchase, you'll receive a unique redemption code to use on the Shutterfly website. Please be aware that standard Shutterfly terms and conditions apply.

As a valued Platinum customer, you will receive 96 personalized address labels from our partner Shutterfly! This a $40 value. This allows you to easily update your outgoing mail with your new name! After completing your HitchSwitch purchase, you'll receive a unique code via email to redeem your address labels on the Shutterfly website. Please note that standard Shutterfly terms and conditions will apply.

The Hitchswitch Database is an exclusive feature for our Full Service and higher-tier customers, providing access to over 10,000 additional accounts. This extensive database was specifically created to offer a comprehensive and streamlined solution, acknowledging that our previous name had broad associations. It includes companies, professional licenses, streaming services, shopper rewards programs, insurance, airlines, banks, credit cards, investment accounts, utilities, pet websites, and much more – truly "everything under the sun" to help you change your name seamlessly across all your affiliations.

You will have immediate access to the database from your online Hitchswitch dashboard, but you cannot change your name on these accounts until you update the big three: (1) Social Security card, (2) License or State ID, and (3) Passport. Once accessed, you simply search for the specific company, bank, credit card, or other account you need to update, and you will immediately receive clear, step-by-step instructions with direct links or forms to facilitate your name change on that platform. Furthermore, for our Platinum and Platinum Plus customers, if you are unable to locate a specific form or company within the database, our dedicated research team will personally locate the specifics for you, ensuring you have all the information you need.

​Yes, in some cases, in-person submissions are required due to identification laws.

Here's a breakdown by entity:

• Social Security Administration Card: Typically, you can complete this online through their portal, by mail, or in person. The options depend on your state's procedures and identity verification needs.
• Driver's License or State ID (DMV): All states and the District of Columbia require an in-person visit to update your driver's license. It’s required by law. 
  
• US Passport Applications:
  • By mail, typically.
  • An in-person appearance is necessary if:
  • It's your first passport.
    
  • Your previous passport was lost or stolen.
  • You applied for your first passport before age 16.
  • Your current passport was issued more than 15 years ago.
• Other Updates (Banks, Credit Cards, etc.): For most other name change updates, you can usually submit applications via mail, fax, phone, email, or their online portals.
  

The $39 to $129 you pay to HitchSwitch is for our service. Any other fees are standard government or state charges that you would pay directly to those entities, regardless of how you manage your name change.

Here's a breakdown of potential additional costs:

• Social Security: No Cost. Free
• U.S. Passport: Expect to pay a fee directly to the State Department when renewing a passport that's over a year old or applying for a new one. This fee typically ranges from about $130 to $220, depending on the processing method you choose.
• Driver's License Name Change: Updating your name on your driver's license usually involves a nominal fee payable to your state's DMV, generally between $10 and $35.
• Vehicle Title and Registration: The fee for changing the name on your vehicle title and registration differs from state to state.
  
• Other Name Changes: The good news is that most other updates, like those for  TSA Precheck/Global Entry. banks. credit cards, professional licenses, etc., are usually free of charge.

Yes! The HitchSwitch forms allow you to update your name and address at the same time. When you complete the Easy Form, just enter your new address in the "permanent address" field. If your current mailing or shipping address is still your old one, you can enter that information in the separate "mailing address" or "shipping address" sections. 

Yes! Since we never submit forms on your behalf, you can simply disregard the applications for any of the steps you've already completed.

Choosing the right HitchSwitch package depends on your individual needs and how much assistance you'd like with your name change process.

Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

• Print at Home: This is the most economical option and is perfect for you if you are comfortable with printing documents yourself and prefer a DIY approach. You'll receive all the pre-filled forms, step-by-step instructions, and access to our online tools to guide you through the process. You'll handle the printing, envelope stuffing, and mailing yourself.

• Full Service: This package is ideal if you want to skip the hassle of printing. We'll mail you a personalized folder containing all your pre-filled forms and instructions, along with pre-stamped envelopes. You'll still be responsible for mailing the forms, but we take care of the printing and provide the postage for convenience. You also get access to our Name Change Database with 20 downloads and email support.

• Platinum: If you're looking for a more comprehensive and hands-on experience with added conveniences, the Platinum Package is a great choice. It includes everything in the Full Service package, plus we provide your passport photos delivered to your door through the PassportNow App, custom Shutterfly address labels to show your new name, priority email support for any questions, and unlimited access to our Name Change Database with concierge assistance to track down hard-to-find organizations.

• Platinum +: This is our most complete package, offering the ultimate stress-free experience and a way to commemorate your life change. It includes everything in the Platinum Package, plus even more value with additional passport photos, extra pre-stamped envelopes, and a custom Shutterfly photo book to preserve memories of this special time.

The Platinum Name Change Concierge is an exclusive benefit for our Platinum and Platinum+ clients. It's your direct line to a dedicated team of name change specialists. Instead of going through our main support channels, you'll be automatically prioritized and connected with our concierge team whenever you need assistance 

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​You are welcome to order your HitchSwitch package at any time! However, please remember that you cannot legally change your name until you are officially married, divorced, or have received a court order for your name change with the legal documents in your possession. Many of our customers find it beneficial to complete our online EasyForm a month or two before their name officially changes. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the forms and instructions, so you're fully prepared to begin the process as soon as your new name is legally recognized. We recommend completing the EasyForm whenever you feel ready.

To officially change your name, you will need one of the following legal documents:

• For Marriage: Your official marriage certificate. This document typically arrives by mail around two weeks after your wedding. You cannot legally change your name before receiving it.
• For Divorce: Your official divorce decree. Please ensure this document clearly states your former name.
• For a Legal Name Change or Gender Change: The official court order granting your name change.

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You'll find fields for up to three addresses. Many users find that their permanent, mailing, and shipping addresses are the same.

Here's how to complete them:

• Permanent Address: Provide your main, official residence. This is the address that will be printed on your driver's license/state ID and linked to your Social Security card, Credit Cards, Financial Accounts, etc..
• Mailing Address: If this address is different from your Permanent Address, choose "No" and enter it. If it's the same, select "Yes" or leave it as the default. This is where your updated Social Security card, license/state ID, and passport will be mailed by the respective agencies.
• Shipping Address (Full Service or higher packages): If this address is different from your Permanent Address (and you've selected a Full Service or higher package), choose "No" and enter it. Otherwise, select "Yes" or use the default.

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It will depend on which package you choose.

PRINT AT HOME: You'll have immediate access to your name change applications and instructions by logging in here.

FULL-SERVICE: We wish we could ship overnight, but since everything is personalized and customized, lots of TLC goes into every single name change. Your order will be processed by our Fulfillment Team within 2 to 3 business days. Once complete, we will ship the name change to your attention. Shipping takes between 3 and 8 business days - depending on where you live!

PLATINUM: Your order will be shipped in two parts. We wish we could ship overnight, but since everything is personalized and customized, lots of TLC goes into every single name change. Your order will be processed by our Fulfillment Team within 2 to 3 business days. Once complete, we will ship the name change to your attention. Shipping takes between 3 and 8 business days - depending on where you live! Second, the passport photo will be shipped once you redeem and submit your photo via the passportnow mobile app.

If your U.S. passport has been lost or stolen, you'll need to complete a couple of crucial steps before applying for a new one, even with HitchSwitch's help:

• Report the Loss or Theft:
  • Immediately report the loss or theft to the U.S. Department of State here. This involves submitting form DS-64 (Statement Regarding a Lost or Stolen Passport).
  • Apply for a New Passport: After reporting, you will then need to complete form DS-11 (Application for a U.S. Passport).
• How To Complete The HitchSwitch EasyForm: 
  • When you get to the passport questions on the HitchSwitch EasyForm, here's how to answer them:
    • For "Do you currently have a US passport?", select "Yes."
    • Then, for "Do you still have the passport in your possession?" select "No," OR for "Is the passport damaged, stolen, lost, or mutilated?" select "Yes."

Not to worry! 

You can change your name and renew your passport at the same time. You will simply answer a couple of questions on our online easy form, and we will provide the necessary information.  

Order Status & Tracking:

• Clients with Full Service and higher tier packages can track their HitchSwitch package via the tracking email sent from customerservice@hitchswitch.com or directly from their HitchSwitch Dashboard.

Processing & Shipping Times:

• Expedited Processing & Shipping: Processing typically takes 1 business day, followed by an estimated 3-5 business days for shipping, depending on your location.
• Standard Processing & Shipping: Processing takes 1-3 business days, and shipping is estimated at 6-8 business days, depending on your location. 

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We understand this can be frustrating!

Please take these steps:

• Wait 24 Hours: Sometimes, packages are marked as "delivered" prematurely and arrive the next business day.
• Check Thoroughly: Confirm with household members that the package wasn't put in an unexpected spot. Also, check all common delivery locations around your property (front, side, back doors, mailroom, etc.).
• Contact Us: If you still cannot locate your package after 24 hours and a thorough check, please email us at customerservice@hitchswitch.com. We will investigate the issue and, if necessary, promptly mail you a brand new package.​​​​
  

The timing of the name change truly depends on how you go about each step of the process. For example: The first step will be updating your name with the Social Security Administration. If you go in person, or are able to complete the process online with the instructions and application we provide, you'll be able to begin submitting other applications 48 hours after the time of your visit. If you submit the application in the mail, you'll need to wait until you receive your new Social Security card in the mail (about two weeks before submitting any other applications. Generally speaking, you should be able to complete the entire process anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months.

The thing to keep in mind with travel is that the name on your ticket must identically match the name on your photo ID.

If you booked in your maiden name, please hold off on submitting your passport until after you return (so that you can use it to board your flight). Keep in mind that in the meantime you can make all other applicable updates (i.e. Social Security update, Driver's License update).

No! The team at HitchSwitch is focused on helping anyone who is changing their name for any reason!  Adults can legally change their names when they get married, divorced, a legal name change (ask the court for a name change), for immigration purposes, etc.

Each name change will require a legal document issued by the courthouse, municipality, etc. that originally issued the document. This document is the Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, Name Change Order, or immigration document.

Yes!

HitchSwitch is a national service and works in all 50 states, and in Washington D.C. Each HitchSwitch package is customized for each client, and each state.

Here's the difference between these two important documents:

• Marriage License: This is the document you must obtain from the county clerk's office before your marriage ceremony. Think of it as a governmental application that grants you the legal right to get married. You'll typically apply for a marriage license in person, and the fee usually ranges from $30-$100, depending on your state's application fees. After your wedding ceremony, your officiant will typically mail the completed license back to the county clerk's office. Remember, the Marriage License gives you the right to get married, but it does not prove marriage.
• Marriage Certificate: This is the official legal and public record that proves a couple is legally married. The Marriage Certificate is usually sent to you in the mail a couple of weeks after your wedding. This is the crucial document that allows you to legally change your name with various agencies. In addition, it is legal proof of marriage. 
  

A Certified Copy of your Marriage Certificaate is an exact duplicate issued directly by the same government office that holds the original record. It comes authenticated with an official raised seal, stamp, or other security features from the issuing county or state. Please note: Regular photocopies or notarized photocopies are not considered certified copies. If you use either of these, your name change application won't be accepted.

You can request Certified Copies from the county where you were married, though reprinting and shipping fees will apply. When you apply by mail, the certificate will be returned to you when your new photo ID (or other updated document) is shipped. If you submit in person, you'll leave with your certificate in hand. However, if you're not comfortable mailing your original certificate, requesting one to two certified copies can be helpful. You shouldn't need more than that.

​

No, you cannot.

While your religious marriage certificate confirms that your marriage is recognized by your faith, this document cannot be used for legal name change purposes with government agencies.

To change your name after your wedding, you will need your state-issued marriage certificate. This is the official legal document required to update your name with all relevant authorities. If you only possess a religious certificate, you'll need to obtain your official marriage certificate from the state.

Good news! The U.S. government recognizes marriage certificates issued internationally, so you do not need to apply for an additional U.S. marriage license. Important Note: If your international marriage certificate is not in English, you will need to have it officially translated and notarized. Once you have your valid (and translated/notarized, if applicable) international marriage certificate, the name change process with HitchSwitch is exactly the same as for a U.S.-issued certificate.

​

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At this time, HitchSwitch is only servicing US and Canadian Citizens who reside permanently in the US or Canada (as the process greatly differs for clients outside of this situation).

Please continue to reach out, as we are always expanding our services, and we hope to be able to serve you in the future!

Yes!

However, you will need to first update the name on your Green Card. Once complete, you will bring your updated Green Card AND foreign passport to Social Security to commence the name change process.

Not at this time.

Your visa will not allow you to change your name after the "Big Day." In order to commence the process, you will first need to obtain a green card. Once this has been completed, please return to HitchSwitch and we will be able to assist!

At this time, our name change service only works in the United States and United States territories.

We are continually expanding our suite of services, so please continue to reach out!

As HitchSwitch is a U.S. based service, unfortunately, we do not currently assist clients who need to update their name on their international/non-U.S. documents such as a passport, visa, etc.

For Platinum Clients, to redeem your complimentary passport photo, please follow the instructions below:

1. Scan the QR code below or download the PassportNow app from the App Store or the Google Play Store. 

   

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2. Once the app is downloaded and opened, tap the box that says "HitchSwitch Client?"
3. Enter your "Promo Code." Or tap the box that says,  "Get Promo Code," and enter your email, wedding date, and phone number associated with your HitchSwitch account to locate the promo code. 
   
4. Take your picture, confirm your shipping details, and tap "Continue".
5. Our Fulfillment team will receive the photo, process it, and ship it to your attention.

For other HitchSwitch clients who want a passport photo, please download 

1. Scan the QR Code below using your phone to download the PassportNow app. Or click here for the App Store or the Google Play Store. Scan the QR Code using your phone

1. Once the app is downloaded and opened, tap the box that says "Get Started." 
2. Select your package. 
3. Follow the on-screen prompts. 
4. Our Fulfillment team will receive your order, process it, and ship it to your attention.

​

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Apologies for any inconvenience. Please email support@passportnow.app ASAP.

Please contact support@passportnow.app. 

If you purchased our Print at Home package, most updates can be made via your name change dashboard (which you can access here). If you need to update your name or email address, please shoot us an email at "customerservice@hitchswitch.com" and we'll be more than happy to make the revision on your behalf.

If you purchased our Full Service or Platinum Package and your order has not yet shipped, please email the necessary update to "customerservice@hitchswitch.com" so that we can make all necessary revisions prior to shipping.

If you've already received your order you can make most updates via your name change dashboard (which you can access here). If you need to update your name or email address, please shoot us an email at "customerservice@hitchswitch.com" and we'll be more than happy to make the revision on your behalf.

Yes! A HitchSwitch gift card makes the perfect shower, engagement, or wedding gift – truly a gift that will last a lifetime! You can check out our Gift Card page here.​

Yes! You can order an electronic gift card or a physical one. If you choose the electronic route, the gift card will be sent to you (the buyer) or the person you choose (the recipient) within a minute or two after you check out. If you choose a physical gift card, it will be shipped to you (the buyer) or the person you choose (the recipient) within 4 to 6 business days (estimated).  

Yes, HitchSwitch can help you with these types of name changes, but there's a crucial first step: you'll need to go through a legal name change process via the court system before using our service. Laws for court-ordered name changes vary by state or jurisdiction, so always confirm the exact requirements with your local authorities.

Here are the general steps for a legal name change:

1. Contact Your Local County Clerk's Office: This is where you'll begin the process.

2. Complete the Name Change Paperwork: This typically includes a name change petition, certification, and/or affidavit. You'll be asked for your current name, desired new name, Social Security number, other personal information, and the reason for the change (e.g., "I have always gone by this name"). You'll also need to confirm that you haven't been convicted of a crime or are changing your name for illicit reasons (like avoiding child support).

3. Pay the Fee: A court filing fee, generally around $250, will be required.

4. File Your Application: Submit your completed paperwork to the county clerk or a judge.

   • Newspaper Publication: In some states, you'll be required to publish a notice of your name change in a local newspaper to inform the public.

5. Receive a Hearing Date: The clerk's office will review your information, schedule a court hearing, and provide you with a docket number. This number is vital as it identifies your case and must be used on all future court papers.

6. Attend Your Name Change Hearing: You must attend this hearing in person. Afterward, the court will officially record your new name and provide you with a name change order or final judgment. This document, typically with a raised state seal, is the legal proof you'll use to update your desired name(s) with agencies, just like a marriage certificate or divorce decree.

Name Changes After Marriage or Divorce

The legal document you use to change your name after marriage or divorce—your marriage certificate or divorce decree—often has limitations on the new name you can adopt without a court order.

After Marriage

If your new name is explicitly listed on your marriage certificate, that's the name you must use for your update. If this applies to you, and your new name is fully detailed on your marriage certificate, please email customerservice@hitchswitch.com with your marriage certificate, and we can manually push through and process your order.

Otherwise, many marriage certificates only list the couple's former names. In these cases, the new last name typically must follow one of these four common options:

• Option 1: The surname of either spouse.

• Option 2: Making your maiden name your new middle name, or adding your maiden name to your current middle name.

• Option 3: A combination surname separated by a hyphen (e.g., Smith-Jones).

• Option 4: A combination surname without a hyphen (e.g., Smith Jones).

If you wish to create a brand new last name entirely (e.g., "Jones" marries "Smith," and they want their new last name to be "Josith"), or if you want to change your first name (e.g., "Adam" to "Jake"), your marriage certificate alone is not sufficient. These types of changes require you to go through the legal court-ordered name change process outlined above.

After Divorce

The name change facilitated by your divorce decree is also limited in scope. You generally cannot create a brand-new name after a divorce using only this document. Your divorce decree will specify whether you are permitted to revert to your former name.

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A Certified Copy of a document (like a divorce decree or court order) is an exact duplicate issued directly by the same government office that holds the original record. It is authenticated with an official raised seal, stamp, or other security features from the issuing county or state. Please note: Regular photocopies or notarized photocopies are not considered certified copies.

If you submit either of these, your name change application will not be accepted. You can typically request Certified Copies from the local county clerk's office in the county where your court order or divorce decree was issued. Reprinting and shipping fees will usually apply.

Technically, you'll only ever need your original Divorce Decree or Court Order. No government agency will keep your original document. When you submit an application by mail, the document will be returned to you when your new photo ID (or other updated document) is shipped. If you submit in person, you'll leave with your document in hand. However, if you're not comfortable mailing your original document, or if you plan to complete multiple name change steps simultaneously, requesting one to two certified copies can be helpful. You shouldn't need more than that.

Yes! As long as you have already gone through the divorce process, and have the legal document in hand (Divorce Decree) we can assist. Please click here, and follow the on-screen prompts to #ReClaimYourName Now! 

Yes, If your divorce decree specifically states that you can change your name to a previous name (i.e. birth name or maiden name) you will be able to use it to change your name.  You can ask the court to use any last name that you used before the marriage when you get divorced. You can’t change your last name through a divorce to a new last name that you never had. If you wish to have a different last name, you will need to undergo a court petitioned name change.  Your divorce judgment will say if you can use your former name. This is a legal name change. The divorce decree or the divorce judgment is the document required to change your name on other identification papers, like your social security card or driver’s license.