What Is My Correct Name Since Remarriage?
After 50 years of marriage, I was widowed four years ago. I was remarried last month to someone I have known since childhood. How do I sign my name now?
I was Margaret Rathbun Scheide. Am I now Margaret Rathbun Johnson or Margaret Scheide Johnson? Do hope you can help me.
Posted by Margaret Johnson; updated 01/08/10
Reply
Margaret Scheide Johnson
Posted by Jennifer; updated 01/18/10
Reply
Because you are widowed, not divorced, you would keep Scheide- and if you have children, it would be extremely disrespectful to them to drop Scheide-
Posted by Jennifer; updated 01/18/10
Reply
Congratulations Margaret.
Proper etiquette would be to retain the surname of your first husband. You should be: Margaret Scheide Johnson.
You may find it a challenge if you assume your new husband`s surname after 50 years with social security administration, the IRS, etc., and may find it easier not to proceed with a legal change at all.
Posted by Edith; updated 01/18/10
Reply
Margaret,
First, congratulations, secondly, Edith is correct with proper etiquette being Margaret Scheide Johnson. However, at this point in your life, do you want to go though the hassle of changing your name with your DL, SS, IRS? I would remain Margaret Scheide!
Posted by Katherine; updated 01/18/10
