Why Should Married Women Change Their Names?

If you intend to marry sometime now or in the future, you would have thought about whether or not to change your second name. A recent survey conducted at a popular state in America suggests that 20% of women love to retain their maiden names even after marriage. And about 10% prefer to go for hyphenated names.

Are Indians on the same line?

Why is it so difficult for women to change their names?

The name is a very vital part of one’s identity. You have identified yourself as a particular person for so long. And changing your name would mean changing your own identity. Many women today believe that simply because they exchange vows does not mean they change names.
For some women, more than the sentiments, it’s the fear of legal dealings. Some keep their maiden names after seeing their mothers go through the anme change hassle. It’s the paperwork of driver’s license, leases, bank accounts, social security number, credit cards, retirement accounts, etc. they fear. But, they are willing to change it on social media platforms such as Facebook.
Sometimes, it is a matter of guilt that they would be the last one in the family to actually have their last name. When there aren’t too many people to carry the legacy and they don’t want to change that.
Some women have established a career under their maiden names. Hence, changing it midway makes them insecure about all the hard work they have done before. During such times, these women go by their maiden name professionally. And then, they change to their married name during any social engagements.

Although it is a tradition to take the husband’s name as a surname, people are innovating and toying with new ideas to keep up the same.

Hyphenating the last two names seems to the latest fad. In this, not only the wife, but the husband can change his name to a hyphenated version as well, This can emphasize on the importance and values he howled for the girl.
As a couple, they can choose an entirely different last name for both. When both of them doesn’t like their last names and aren’t keen on keeping them, it is a perfect chance to start afresh. It can either be a combination of the two names or derived from any particular word they love.
According to the USA Today, in the year 2007, a lot of men are actually willing to take their wife’s last name. But, one thing is that it’s not legal in many states.

Due to the name change problem, a lot of people are coming forward and voicing opinions.

Whatever your decision regarding the name, it is best to have a clear idea and discuss it with your partner before the wedding. This gives you the chance to weigh your options. And then you get some time to accommodate the new name in case you have decided to change it.

It is a personal choice completely and should not hinder your relationship.