Make Your ‘I Dos’ Official
This year it’s expected that the U.S. will see more weddings than any year since 1984. After nearly two years of postponement due to the pandemic, many couples are jumping at the chance to finally tie the knot. After the tearful vows and celebration with family and friends, the logistical part of getting married begins.
Here’s your cheat sheet of things to do after getting married, like changing your name and updating your policy.
How to Change Your Name
Change the name on your Social Security card first. Applying for a new card is free, but due to pandemic-induced speed bumps, the current process is a bit laborious. Social Security offices suspended face-to-face services on March 17, 2020. As such, you’ll need to fill out an application and mail the following items to the office closest to you:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate or U.S. passport)
- Marriage certificate
- Photo identification (state-issued ID, driver’s license, or U.S. passport)
Originals are required — no photocopies are accepted. Do not make any international travel plans (such as a honeymoon abroad) during this time when you’ll be without your passport.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need a few more documents listed here.
With your new Social Security card in hand, take a trip to the DMV to change your driver’s license and update your employer, banks, and retirement brokers on your name change.
Marrying Your Policies
Combining policies with your spouse is easy. Simply call your Agent and they’ll walk you through the process. They’ll also let you know about potential savings when you bundle different types of coverage, such as your auto and home policies.
Moving in together? You’ll only need one property insurance policy. But keep in mind that your coverage amount will need to increase to cover your spouse’s belongings.
Don’t forget to update your beneficiaries on your life insurance, health insurance, and 401(k)s. Sometimes, unmarried people will put a sibling or parent on their beneficiary list and completely forget about it, even after having children.
Love is bliss, but it’s also responsibility. If you don’t already have it, now is a good time to invest in life insurance. It’s one of the only ways to cheat “till death do us part.”
Coverage and discounts are subject to qualifications and policy terms and may vary by situation. © 2022 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance
