Should I Hyphenate My Last Name After I Marry?

Q: What do you call a married woman who keeps her maiden name?

A married woman who keeps her maiden name is often referred to as a 'non-hyphenated' or 'maiden name' user. Some may also use terms like 'professional name' if they maintain their maiden name for career purposes. This choice is common among professionals who want to preserve their identity in their field.

Q: Can you legally have two last names without a hyphen?

Yes, you can legally have two last names without a hyphen. Many people choose to use both names informally or in different contexts. However, for legal documents, it's best to be consistent with the name you use. If you want both names recognized legally, consider a formal name change process to ensure clarity.

Full question:

Which is better legally-- to add on your husband's surname to your maiden name without a hyphen-- (Charlene Andrews Watson) or with a hyphen (Charlene Andrews- Watson) ? I will like to maintain my maiden name in some from since I am a medical doctor. Just wondering what are the legal/ financial ramifications of each option. Which is easier / better?? Also can you use either name in different situations if you hyphenate or not??

Category: Name Change
Date: 04/07/2025
State: New York

Answer:

Legally, there really is no difference between using both a maiden and married name or adding a hyphen between the two. It is more a matter of personal preference. A hyphenated name would be ordered (in a phonebook or catalog, for instance) under the first letter of whichever name had been placed first.

As long as not done with wrongful intent, such as to defraud creditors, it is generally acceptable to continue using a maiden name for business purposes. The need for a legal name change may result from marriage, divorce, adoption or simply a desire to have another name. Generally, you cannot change your name for a fraudulent purpose, such as avoiding debts. Means of changing your name generally include usage (in some states using a name as your own has the affect of making it your name); court order (a court order is recommended to change your name and is required by most states); or a marriage certificate as proof of name change.

The court must find that the requested name change is consistent with the public interest. A person is not allowed to change their name in order to avoid judgments or legal actions against him or her, or to avoid debts and obligations. A person can not change their name to defraud any person.

It is possible that the original name will be included as part of the new name change, such as when a surname is hyphenated after marriage or included as a middle name rather than a surname. As long as not done with wrongful intent, such as to defraud creditors, it is generally acceptable to continue using a maiden name for business purposes.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What happens if you get married and don't change your name?

If you get married and choose not to change your name, your maiden name remains your legal name. You can continue to use it for all legal and business purposes. However, it may lead to some confusion in situations where your marital status is relevant, such as in medical or legal documents. It's important to communicate your name choice clearly to avoid misunderstandings.

What do you call a married woman who keeps her maiden name?

Should you add husband's last name with a hyphen?

Whether to add your husband's last name with a hyphen is a personal choice. A hyphenated name can help maintain your maiden name's visibility and may be beneficial professionally. However, it may also lead to complications in legal documents or records. Consider your preferences and how you wish to be identified in both personal and professional contexts.

What are the disadvantages of not changing name after marriage?

Not changing your name after marriage can lead to confusion in legal and financial matters, such as joint accounts or property ownership. It may also create complications when traveling or dealing with healthcare providers. Additionally, you might face questions about your marital status in professional settings. It's essential to ensure that all relevant documents reflect your name choice.

Can you legally have two last names without a hyphen?

Can I hyphenate my last name without legally changing it?

You can use a hyphenated last name informally without legally changing it. Many people adopt a hyphenated name in daily life, especially for professional purposes. However, for legal documents, you should use the name that matches your identification. If you want the hyphenated name to be recognized legally, you may need to go through a formal name change process.