[franticfran]

I live in California, and when I got divorced in 1991, I had my name changed back to my maiden name. I am now getting remarried next month, and I'd like to keep my maiden name. How does that work? Do I just get married and not change my name, and keep my SS#, driver's license, bank accounts etc., as they are now? But can I ever use my new married name, say in social occasions? I'm 51, and I just prefer to keep my maiden name, since so much is in that name, and also for credit reasons, since I have excellent credit, and my fiance does not.

[the_admin]

No need to feel frantic. Fran! You just keep your maiden name; it's actually easier than chaging your name.

Now, if you want to be referred to as Mrs. New Husband's Name that is fine as long as you are not using this name on any legal documents or bills, etc.