Q. I'm a Des Moines bride who wishes to take my husband's last name once we are married. How do I legally change my last name in this city?
A. You're going to accept his last name, wasn't that decision hard enough? Unfortunately, the state makes you go through a few more hoops before it's official. Step one is to request several certified copies of your marriage license (you'll need to present it as proof for your name change). Next, change your records at Des Moines' Social Security office, which is located in Room 293 on the second floor of the Federal Building, 210 Walnut Street, open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m - 4:00 p.m. (or visit the Social Security Administration online at SSA.gov for more info). Next stop: the Department of Motor Vehicles. Unfortunately, this has to be done in person, so call the Iowa Motor Vehicle Division (515) 244-9124, to find the office nearest you (don't forget to bring a copy of your marriage license again). After these two official changes are made, the rest can usually be done by telephone. Your name should be changed on your financial records, your payroll records, voter registration, utility accounts, automobile registration, passport ... and don't forget to update those magazine subscriptions!
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