Changing Your Name After Getting Married – Should You Do It?

Unless you live under a rock or do not follow any kind of news, you likely know that George Clooney recently married British attorney, Amal Alamuddin. What you may not know is that there was an uproar in some circles about Amal’s decision to change her name to Amal Clooney. Mrs. Clooney took his name; would you?, by Jacque Wilson, CNN, October 14, 2014. While the majority of women in traditional marriages still choose to take their husband’s last name, a 2009 study by Sacred Heart University found that around 18% choose to keep their maiden name.

The decision to take a spouse’s last name is very personal and there are many things to consider before making a decision:

1. Tradition – Many brides are moved by the fact that it is “traditional” to take their husband’s last name upon marriage. Keeping with tradition is very important to some people and this factor alone may sway a person’s decision.
2. Kids – It is important to many people that their kids have the same last name as both of their parents. Having the same last name for all family members can also alleviate any confusion at the child’s school or extracurricular activities regarding who may pick the child up or who should receive communication.
3. Job or “personal brand” – Many women have worked for a long time in their field prior to getting married. They have essentially built a “brand” for themselves, and people know them, and their associated successes, by their maiden name. This is not at all to say that successful women shouldn’t change their names, but it is another thing for career driven women to consider.
4. Paperwork – Changing your name can be logistically difficult. From making sure you have enough certified copies of your marriage license to running around to all the offices that require the name change request be made in person, it can be a huge pain. Once you start the process, however, you have to finish it. You don’t want to be stuck with a driver’s license that has one name and a social security card that lists another name.

In the end, changing your name upon marriage is a deeply personal decision that should not be reached lightly. Talk to your spouse and make the decision that is best for both of you – and ignore the people who want to insert their opposing views.