Checked against official SSA, State Department, IRS and USAGov pages and forms on 2026-10-07. Agency rules and fees change; the agency's current instructions win.
Most name-change steps start with proof. USAGov: "Use certified copies of key documents as proof to notify these federal and state agencies that you changed your name."
If you married in the U.S., USAGov says to "contact the vital records office in the state where you were married" (USAGov). "They will tell you the cost, what information you need to supply, and if you can get a copy online, by mail, or in person."
Married abroad? USAGov points you to the embassy or consulate of the country where you married.
SSA: "You must present original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies." For a passport renewal by mail, Form DS-82 asks for "a copy of your certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or original court order showing the change of name" and says "All original documents will be returned to you by mail."
There's no official number. Some steps hold your documents for a while (for example, a mailed passport application). If you'll visit Social Security or the DMV in the same weeks, you may want more than one copy. The kit's certified-copy tracker shows where each copy is.
USAGov: "A marriage license legally allows you to marry. A marriage certificate proves you got married."
See the order to do it in, then Social Security.
Get the Name Change Kit (PDF + Word), $12
Instant download. 14-day no-questions refund. Edition 1.0, dated 2026-10-07. Federal steps for every state; state steps you look up.