What changing your name after marriage actually costs in 2026

Published fees vary by document and state. This is a line-by-line breakdown from the agency pages we rechecked for this update on September 7, 2026. Confirm current fees with the controlling agency before applying. For a state-by-state view, you can compare verified state fee and timing benchmarks.

The government fees, line by line

Social Security: $0. The SSA changes your name by issuing a replacement card and never charges for it. Passport: $0 if it has been less than one year since both your passport was issued and your name legally changed, because Form DS-5504 carries no fee (expedited service is $60). Past that one-year window, an eligible adult DS-82 passport book renewal is $130. An adult DS-11 passport book is $165 including the acceptance fee. Driver’s license fees vary by state. Virginia publishes $20 for a standard replacement license. Vehicle updates can add fees where states require them: Missouri handles a registration name change by retitling. Its name-change page lists $14.50, while its titling FAQ lists $17.50 for a duplicate-title route; those sources do not prove they describe the same transaction. Confirm the applicable route and total with DOR.

Where the real money goes

Private services may charge for planning, prepared forms, printing, mailing, or human support. Those offerings do not change agency fees or requirements. Read a provider’s current scope, price, and privacy policy before deciding whether it fits your needs.

Planning around requirements

Check the controlling agency’s current instructions before acting. A state may publish a prerequisite or waiting interval; passport travel timing also needs a separate decision. My New Surname organizes the researched steps for covered situations at $19.99USD once, while the state guides remain free either way.