Getting married is exciting, but one thing that can feel overwhelming afterward is the name change process. You’ve just had a magical wedding, but now you’re left with the not-so-magical task of updating your name across various documents and accounts. Thankfully, services like HitchSwitch and NewlyNamed make it easier to navigate this often confusing process. But which one should you choose?
What is HitchSwitch?
HitchSwitch was one of the pioneers in making the post-wedding name change process less of a headache. Launched in 2013, it’s designed to streamline the paperwork required to change your name after marriage.
Think of HitchSwitch like a personal assistant dedicated to your name change—guiding you step by step, saving you hours of research, and even taking care of most of the paperwork for you.
How Does HitchSwitch Work?
It’s simple! Here’s how it works:
- Choose Your Package: HitchSwitch offers three packages—Print at Home, Full Service, and Platinum. Each level comes with varying degrees of help.
- Print at Home ($39): You receive detailed, customized instructions and forms that you can print and fill out at your convenience.
- Full Service ($69): This package includes everything from Print at Home, but HitchSwitch will also mail you the forms, pre-filled, and provide pre-paid envelopes to send them off.
- Platinum Package ($99): On top of everything from Full Service, you get passport photo printing, 30 minutes of concierge phone support, and a passport expedite service.
- Fill Out a Quick Form: After picking your package, you complete a short form with your details like your current name, your new name, and where you live. HitchSwitch then populates all the necessary forms for your name change.
- Receive Forms and Instructions: Depending on your package, HitchSwitch will either send you the forms or provide them digitally. You’ll also receive clear, step-by-step instructions on what to do next.
- Submit Your Forms: Once you have all your forms and instructions, it’s time to submit them to the relevant agencies, like the Social Security Administration, the DMV, and others.
Pros of HitchSwitch
- Time-saving: HitchSwitch reduces the amount of research and paperwork you need to do. They prepare most of the forms for you, so all you have to do is sign and mail them.
- Clear Instructions: You get simple, easy-to-follow instructions, even for complicated steps like updating your passport or driver’s license.
- Concierge Service: The Platinum package offers personalized support, which is great if you’re unsure about any step.
Cons of HitchSwitch
- Price: Compared to handling the process on your own (which is free), HitchSwitch can be pricey. The Platinum package, in particular, might seem a bit steep.
- No Digital Submissions: While they provide pre-filled forms, you’ll still need to mail them out yourself. There’s no option for digital submission for most documents.
What is NewlyNamed?
NewlyNamed is another great option for simplifying the name change process, but with a few different twists. Launched in 2018, it offers a streamlined and digital-first approach, which can be more appealing to tech-savvy individuals.
How Does NewlyNamed Work?
Much like HitchSwitch, NewlyNamed guides you through the entire name change process. Here’s how:
- Choose Your Package: NewlyNamed offers four packages—Basic, Digital, Complete, and Premium.
- Basic ($39): Includes a name change checklist and detailed instructions.
- Digital ($49): Everything from the Basic package plus all forms delivered digitally.
- Complete ($79): This includes pre-filled forms mailed to your door, along with pre-paid envelopes to send them out.
- Premium ($99): You’ll get passport photos, expedited shipping for your documents, and 30 minutes of name change concierge support.
- Answer a Few Questions: Just like HitchSwitch, you’ll need to fill out some basic information about yourself to generate the necessary forms.
- Receive Forms and Instructions: Based on your package, you’ll either receive physical forms or have them available for download. The instructions are customized and clear, ensuring you know exactly what to do.
- Submit Your Documents: Once the forms are filled out, you can mail them to the necessary offices like the Social Security Administration, DMV, etc.
Pros of NewlyNamed
- Affordable: Their Digital package is cheaper than HitchSwitch’s Full Service package, offering a more budget-friendly way to get pre-filled forms and instructions.
- Tech-Savvy Option: With its emphasis on digital forms, it’s a great option for people who prefer to keep things paperless.
- Premium Support: The Premium package offers concierge support and expedited passport services, which can be a lifesaver if you need help or are on a tight schedule.
Cons of NewlyNamed
- Less Known: NewlyNamed is newer than HitchSwitch, and some users might be more comfortable going with the more established brand.
- No In-Person Support: Unlike HitchSwitch’s Platinum package, which offers phone support, NewlyNamed only provides support through email or limited concierge time.
Side-by-Side Comparison: HitchSwitch vs. NewlyNamed
| Feature | HitchSwitch | NewlyNamed |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest Package | $39 Print at Home | $39 Basic |
| Highest Package | $99 Platinum | $99 Premium |
| Form Filling | Pre-filled (Full Service & Platinum) | Pre-filled (Complete & Premium) |
| Passport Support | Yes (Platinum Package) | Yes (Premium Package) |
| Digital Forms | No | Yes (with Digital Package) |
| Pre-paid Envelopes | Yes (Full Service & Platinum) | Yes (Complete & Premium) |
| Concierge Support | Yes (Platinum) | Yes (Premium) |
| Speed of Service | Fast, with forms mailed within days | Fast, with instant digital access |
| Additional Services | Passport expediting, DMV instructions | Passport photos, checklist |
Which Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between HitchSwitch and NewlyNamed depends on your priorities.
- If you’re looking for a more established brand with in-person support options, then HitchSwitch might be the way to go. The Platinum package is especially handy if you think you’ll need personalized help along the way.
- On the other hand, if you prefer a digital-first service that’s more budget-friendly, NewlyNamed offers comparable services at slightly lower prices. The Digital package is a great deal for people who want to handle everything online.
Final Thoughts
Both HitchSwitch and NewlyNamed can save you hours of frustration and paperwork when it comes to changing your name after marriage. While HitchSwitch has the advantage of being a long-time player in the space, NewlyNamed’s emphasis on tech and digital forms makes it a strong contender.
Whichever you choose, you’ll be well on your way to embracing your new name without the typical stress of managing all the paperwork yourself. Good luck with your post-wedding life—and your shiny new name!
