Congratulations on tying the knot! Now that you’ve walked down the aisle and exchanged vows, you’ve stepped into a whole new chapter of life. But before you settle into the bliss of being newlyweds, there are some practical steps you need to take to start this chapter on the right foot. From handling legal documents to financial planning, here are five essential things you need to do after getting married.
Request Your Marriage Certificate
One of the first things newly married couples should do is acquire their marriage certificate. Unlike a marriage license, which is filed before your wedding date, a marriage certificate signifies that you and your spouse are legally married. You’ll typically request this from the county office where your marriage was registered and receive it by mail after a few weeks.
This document is vital for all other legal changes you’ll make, such as updating your identification and banking information. Make sure you have multiple copies, as you may need them for different purposes.
Change Your Last Name
If you or your spouse decides to change your last name, you must update it on all official documents and identifications. Start by visiting the Social Security Administration to get a new social security card.
Then, update your driver’s license at the DMV and notify your bank and credit card companies about your name change. If you plan to travel internationally, remember to update your passport. This process can take some time, so tackle it as soon as possible.
Update Your Marital Status
Changing your marital status can have significant implications for your taxes, job benefits, and even certain legal rights. First, update your IRS information, which may impact your withholding amounts and tax filing status. Next, notify your employer to ensure your benefits accurately reflect your new status. You might also want to update your status with any professional organizations or memberships you belong to.
Review Your Insurance Policies
Getting married is considered a qualifying event for insurance providers as an opportunity to review your insurance coverage and make any updates. Start by looking at your and your spouse’s health insurance within 60 days of your wedding date and reevaluate your coverage options. Next, review your auto insurance for potential discounts and consider merging policies for savings. Finally, update or add life insurance to ensure your spouse is protected.
Discuss Financial Planning and Goals
Life as a newlywed couple involves blending finances, so discussing your financial goals and plans is crucial. Sit down and talk about your income, expenses, debts, and savings. Create a joint budget to manage your day-to-day expenses and set long-term goals, such as buying a house or starting a family. Consider opening a joint bank account or savings account to manage your shared finances and expenses better.
In summary, while adjusting to life as a newlywed couple is exciting, taking care of these important things will set you up for a smoother future together. Act on these tasks promptly after getting married to avoid any unnecessary stress down the line.
