How to Change Your Name After Marriage in Queensland.

Wondering how to change your last name after getting married? Here's exactly when you can do it, what documents you'll need, and whether it's easier to do it yourself or use a service like Easy Name Change .

Getting married is the fun part... changing your name afterwards? Not quite as exciting!

The good news is that you don't have to rush, there's no deadline, and you can choose whether or not you want to take your partner's surname.

Here's everything you need to know if you're getting married in Queensland.

When Can You Change Your Name?

You can start changing your surname once you receive your Official Marriage Certificate from the Queensland Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM).

This is not the decorative certificate I present to you on your wedding day. That one is a lovely keepsake, but it can't be used for changing your name.

Instead, you'll need the Official Marriage Certificate issued by BDM.

If I order your certificate for you after your ceremony (which I'm always happy to do), it usually arrives within two weeks in Queensland, although processing times can vary. BDM will contact you via email or mobile for payment.

Once it arrives, you're ready to start updating your details.

Do I Have to Change My Name?

Absolutely not.

Many people choose to take their partner's surname, while others keep their own. Some hyphenate both surnames, and others use different surnames professionally and socially.

There is no right or wrong choice, it's entirely up to you.

What Do I Change First?

Once your Official Marriage Certificate arrives, it's a good idea to update your most important documents first.

I'd usually recommend starting with:

• Queensland Driver License

• Australian Passport (if applicable)

• Medicare

• Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

• Banks and credit cards

• Superannuation

• Employer and payroll

• Electoral Roll

• Insurance

• Utilities

• Phone provider

• Loyalty programs and memberships

Most organisations simply need to see your Official Marriage Certificate.

Want to Save Time?

Easy Name Change Can Do Most of the Work

If you’re not a fan of research or filling in forms, don't worry. Many couples are using an Easy Name Change kit instead. With Easy Name Change, all you have to do is check off the companies to notify, and they will send you a custom pack of forms. Just attach your marriage certificate and send!

It's a great option if you'd rather spend your newlywed days enjoying married life instead of filling out forms.

Can I Still Travel?

If you're travelling for your honeymoon shortly after your wedding, it's usually easiest to book all travel in the same name that's on your passport.

Many couples simply wait until they return home before beginning the name change process.

It saves a lot of unnecessary stress.

How I Help My Couples

After your wedding, I lodge all of your legal paperwork with Births, Deaths and Marriages.

If you've asked me to order your Official Marriage Certificate, I'll take care of that too, so you don't have to think about it.

Once it arrives, you'll have everything you need to begin changing your name whenever you're ready.

One less thing for you to worry about!