Our system takes the basic information you submit online to autofill the forms you'll need to change your name. Along with these autofilled forms, we'll provide a set of instructions that explain how to complete and how to submit each of the provided applications. Since we don't collect sensitive information (i.e. Social, Passport number, Driver's License number), we'll indicate which fields still require your attention and where to sign and date. For any steps that can be submitted in the mail, we'll include the address to which the application needs to be sent.
Our goal is to take the mystery out of this process - with our help you won't need to worry about where to start, which forms you'll need, how to fill out those forms, which order to submit the applications, what to include when submitting, where to submit, etc.
HitchSwitch offers three name change packages:
Print at Home: Immediate access to name change applications that have been autofilled with your basic information and a set of corresponding instructions that will explain how to submit each application via an online dashboard.
Full Service Package: Our team will ship printed name change applications that have been autofilled with your basic information, a set of corresponding instructions that will explain how to submit each application, and pre-paid envelopes for any steps that can be submitted through the mail
Platinum Package: Our team will ship printed name change applications that have been autofilled with your basic information, a set of corresponding instructions that will explain how to submit each application, and pre-paid envelopes for any steps that can be submitted through the mail. Platinum clients also receive access to a name change concierge, in addition to a complimentary passport photo (which will be redeemed through the PassportNow App).
We know that half the battle for this process is figuring out where you'll need to update your name. Your HitchSwitch package is personalized based on your information. Every HitchSwitch Package includes personalized forms, and instructions for: Social Security, U.S. Passport, Driver's License (Real-ID), Vehicle Title & Registration, Voter Registration, IRS, and the most popular credit card updates.
Our full service and platinum clients have access to the Hitchwitch name change database. This is the real deal! You will receive name change instructions for your personal accounts. Our database includes anything under the sun such as Credit Cards, Utility Companies, TSA Pre✓ and Global Entry, Hotels, Doctor's Offices, Subscription Services, Airline Loyalty Programs, Professional Licenses, and much more! All you do is log into your HitchSwitch Dashboard, and we'll provide you with a set of personalized instructions and all applicable name change information!
You will have direct contact with your personal team of Name Change Ninjas. The team answers all of your difficult questions!
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 to submit the 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.
Information security is one of our top priorities - for this reason, we never collect any sensitive information from clients (i.e. Social Security number, Passport number, Driver's License number, Parental information, etc.). Instead, we'll provide a set of instructions with your HitchSwitch order that will explain where you'll manually add that information prior to submitting the application to each government or state agency.
Information and cyber security are our top priorities - for this reason, we never collect any sensitive/identifiable information from our clients such as your Social Security number, Passport number, etc. Instead, we will provide a set of instructions with your HitchSwitch order that will explain where you will manually add that information prior to submitting the application to each government or state agency.
The only information we ask for or see is what one can find in a basic social media or White Pages search.
Additionally, our SSL certificate and cyber security are monitored 24/7 not only by our development team but through an outside firm as well whose clients include Google, Amazon, Exxon mobile to name a few.
Absolutely not!
Client information security is one of our top priorities. We'll never ask for sensitive information (Social Security number, Passport number, Driver's License number, Weight, Parental info). Instead, we'll provide a set of instructions that will explain where you'll manually add that information once you've received (or printed) your name change applications.
As for in-person visits: Post 9/11 identification laws in the US changed so the DMV requires an in-person visit in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. However, all other updates can typically be submitted through the mail, fax, a phone call, an email, or via an online portal.
Please note that there are a few exceptions: There are certain counties across the US that will require in-person submission of the Social Security name change request, to streamline the process due to the high volume of name changes that occur in the city.
Additionally, you will need to submit your Passport application in person if you're applying for the first time, if you've lost your current passport, or if your current passport has been expired for more than five years.
The $39.99 to $99.99 charged by HitchSwitch is for our service. All additional fees are paid directly to the state or government agency where making the update.
To renew a passport over a year old, or to apply for a first-time passport, there will be a $130 fee paid directly to the State Department. For name change updates on driver's licenses, each state requires a fee that is normally around $10-35. For the majority of the other updates, there is no fee!
You can complete our EasyForm and order your HitchSwitch package at any time. Approximately 20% to 25% of our clients order HitchSwitch prior to their wedding date, so the can familiarize themselves with the paperwork, and are ready to get going after the big day!
However, you cannot actually change your name until you are legally married, with your marriage certificate physically in your possession. The marriage certificate (sent to you in the mail about two weeks after your wedding) is the legal document that allows you to change your name.
You bet we can!
The forms we provide in your HitchSwitch package will allow you to update your name and address simultaneously - essentially "killing two birds with one stone."
When completing the HitchSwitch EasyForm, please list your new address, under the "permanent address" field, and your shipping address (if different) on the shipping field when checking out!
Yes!
Because we'll never submit forms on your behalf, you can simply disregard the applications for any of the steps that you've already completed.
If you purchased our Platinum Package, you'll receive access to our name change concierge team! The best way for our clients to reach our dedicated platinum team is via email. The platinum email can be found in your HitchSwitch package, or by logging into your HitchSwitch account!
It's up to you, but this is how HitchSwitch defines the various address fields on our EasyForm:
Permanent Address: the address that will be reflected on your new driver's license, bank accounts etc.
Mailing Address: the address to which your new Passport, Driver's License will be sent
Shipping Address: the address where your HitchSwitch order will be sent
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.
No worries, but please understand you will need to take a few additional steps.
Since your passport is lost/stolen etc., you will not be able to immediately apply for one in your new name.
First, you will report your lost/stolen passport to the State Department.
Second, you will have to apply for a new passport.
If you fall into this unfortunate :( category, please send us an email so we can provide you with all the necessary information!
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.
Please let us know ASAP!
Shoot us an email at (customerservice@hitchswitch.com) and we'll be more than happy to check on the status of your package and reship if necessary.
The document that will facilitate your name change is the Marriage Certificate, which is very limited in scope. Your certificate will ONLY allow you to update your middle or last name to any combination of your and your spouse's current last names. Your name change options include: 1. You can take the last name of your spouse; 2. You can hyphenate your current last name with the last name of your spouse; 3. You can create a double last name (with no hyphen) using both parties current surnames; or 4. Make your current last name a new, or second middle name.
Your marriage certificate DOES NOT ALLOW YOU to: 1. Change your first name; 2. Create a new or second middle name: i.e. "Unicorn"; or 3. Create a brand new last name: i.e. Johnson marries Smith and they want the new last name of "Johnsmith."
If you want to make any of the name changes above, you will need to go through the legal name change process, which is briefly outlined below:
- You will visit your local county clerk;
- You will complete a name change order with the county clerk;
- The clerk will schedule a date for you to appear before a judge;
- In the interim, you will post notice of your new name in a local newspaper (a very antiquated rule, but still part of the requirement);
- You will have a name change hearing where the judge will issue you the desired name(s).
- Upon completion, the judge will give you a document called a name change order. The "order" will be the legal document used to change your desired name(s) in lieu of your marriage certificate.
Upon completion of this process, the judge will issue you a "Name Change Order." Once this document is physically in hand you will use it in place of your Marriage Certificate when submitting the forms that we provide. HitchSwitch will be able to help you update your name on everything from your passport to your driver's license and everything in between. Please click here for more information.
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.
The marriage license is the document you receive (prior to the "big day") that allows you to get married
The marriage certificate is the document (sent to you in the mail about 2 to 3 weeks after the "big day") that proves you are married!
Maybe!
Marriage Certificates differ in terms of verbiage and formatting county by county across the US. Some Certificates will list both parties' current legal names (i.e. "Person A" is marrying "Person B"). Other Certificates will ask for one or both parties' new married names (i.e. "Person A" is marrying "Person B" and Person B's declared surname is "XYZ").
If your Certificate requires only your and your spouse's current legal names, you'll be good to go! If you were able to list a new married name (or declared surname etc.) and you did not, you won't be able to use the Certificate for the name change. We can't speak specifically to your situation without seeing the Marriage Certificate but please note that a vast majority of Marriage Certificates will NOT list the new married name.
A Certified Copy of the Marriage Certificate is a DUPLICATE certificate that's issued directly from the county that issued the original certificate.
Please note: a photocopy or a notarized photocopy are NOT considered certified copies. If you attempt to use such a document, your name change will not be accepted.
To request Certified Copies, you'll reach out to the county in which you were married (there will be reprinting and shipping fees).
Technically, you'll only need the original Marriage Certificate as no government agency will ever keep that certificate. When you submit an application in the mail, the certificate will be returned when your new Photo ID (etc.) is shipped. If you submit in person, you'll leave with the certificate in hand. With that being said, you can absolutely request Certified Copies if you don't feel comfortable putting your original certificate in the mail, or if you want to complete multiple steps at a time, you should not need any more than 2 certified copies.
No, you cannot.
Your religious marriage certificate proves that your marriage is legally recognized by your religion. However, this religious document CAN NOT be used for name change purposes. If you only have a religious certificate, you will need to request/get your state-issued marriage certificate, as the state marriage certificate is the legal document that allows you to change your name after your wedding!
Yes!
As long as you have a valid marriage certificate physically in your possession, there is no time limit on when you can change your last name. While the average HitchSwitch client makes the change within 90 days of getting married, we have assisted many clients who have been married for five, ten, and even twenty years.
Good News. The US will recognize marriage certificates issued internationally, so there is no need to also apply for a US marriage license.
Please note, if your international marriage certificate is not in English you will need to have it translated and notarized.
Once complete, the name change process is exactly the same
At this time HitchSwitch is only servicing US Citizens that reside permanently in the US (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 service 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:
- Download the new PassportNow app from the App Store or the Google Play Store.
- Once the app is downloaded and opened, tap the box that says "HitchSwitch Client?"
- 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.
- Take your picture, confirm your shipping details, and tap "Continue".
- Our Fulfillment team will receive the photo, process it, and ship it to your attention.
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.
Check out our Gift Card page here
A HitchSwitch gift card makes the perfect shower, engagement or wedding gift!
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 ("buyer"), or the person you choose ("recipient") within a minute or two after you checkout.
If you choose a physical gift card, it will be shipped to you ("buyer") or the person you choose ("recipient") within 3 to 5 business days.
As long as you have already gone through the legal name change process, and have the legal document in hand (Name Change Order) we can assist. Please click here, and follow the on-screen prompts to #ClaimYourName Now!
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!