So what if his last name rhymes with “Rick” and will cause your future children years of pain? You love him, and you’re happy to take his last name…but where do you begin? Use our guide below when it’s time to take the leap to legally change your name.

1. Obtain your marriage license.

Make sure the name on your license is the name you legally intend to use. Your marriage license usually takes a few weeks to arrive by mail.

Tip: See if you can order multiple certified copies (which means they have a raised seal). This will allow you to change your name on multiple items (like your passport and your social security card) through the mail, rather than in person.

2. Apply for a new social security card.

This can be done by calling the Social Security Administration at (800) 772-1213 or you can download the name change application at the Social Security Agency’s Website.

Once you complete the application for a new social security card, mail (or take) the completed application—plus the necessary identification documents—to your local Social Security office.

The required identification documents for a name change are: your certified marriage license (not a photocopy), an original identity document that shows your old name, and a photograph (e.g., U.S. driver’s license state-issued nondriver ID card or a U.S. passport).

Note: Your new card will have the same social security number as your previous card.

3. Change your ID documents.

Your License

Head down to the Department of Motor Vehicles armed with: your current driver’s license, your certified marriage certificate, and your new social security card.

Tip: Name change rules vary state to state, so always check your state’s DMV Website beforehand.

Your Passport

To change the name on your passport, first print out the name change form from the State Department’s Website. Once completed, send the form, a certified copy of your marriage license, two recent, identical color photographs (2 inches by 2 inches), and your current valid passport to the address listed on the name change form.

Tip: Do not wait longer than one year to change your passport or you will need to submit a renewal application instead and pay all applicable fees.

4. Tell your company’s human resources department.

You will need to drop by your company’s HR department with your new social security card to update all your personal information. You may want to request a new e-mail address or business cards at that time as well.

Tip: Though it seems obvious, make sure HR changes your tax status to married so that you can take advantage of any tax benefits.

5. Change your name everywhere else.

This includes the bank, insurance policies, financial holdings, credit cards, checks, utilities, voter registration, mortgages and leases, and wills. Most places will accept a typed letter that includes your new name and other updated information; some may require a copy of your marriage license or updated social security card.

Tip: Ignore companies offering to change your name for a fee; these are scams.