The First Steps to Take After Getting Married

When you’re newly married, it can be difficult to keep track of everything that needs to be done. You’ve just said your vows, possibly enjoyed a wonderful honeymoon, and now you're ready to start this new chapter together.

It might feel like there’s no time for anything other than enjoying married life, but a few essential tasks should be taken care of as soon as possible. Taking these steps early on will help avoid stress later and ensure a smooth transition into married life.

From updating legal documents to sorting out finances, here are four important things to do after your wedding.

1. Get Your Name Changed

If either you or your spouse have chosen to change your surname, or if you've combined names into a double-barrelled surname, updating your legal documents should be at the top of your to-do list.

Here’s what you need to update:

• Official documents: Start with your passport, driving licence, and ID cards as they are required for identification in many situations.
• Bank accounts and financial records: Inform your bank, building society, credit card providers, and any investments about your name change.
• Household bills: Update your details on utility bills, council tax records, mobile phone contracts, and internet accounts.
• Work and payroll: Notify your employer, HR department, and pension provider so that your name is updated on payslips and tax documents.
• Insurance policies: Update your details on health insurance, home insurance, and car insurance.
• Doctors and dentists: Ensure your GP, dentist, and optician records reflect your new surname.
• Loyalty cards and memberships: Many retailers and clubs require up-to-date ID to claim rewards or access services.

To make the process smoother, consider ordering extra certified copies of your marriage certificate. Some organisations may request to see an official copy before processing the change.

Even if you’re keeping your surname, it’s still a good time to review your joint accounts, legal documents, and any shared assets.

 

2. Discuss Your Will and End-of-Life Plans

Thinking about a will may not feel like a priority right after getting married, but it’s an important legal step that ensures your spouse and loved ones are protected.

Here’s why updating your will is crucial:

• Marriage can override an existing will. If either of you had a will before marriage, it may no longer be valid.
• Your spouse may not automatically inherit everything. Without a will, the law will dictate how your assets are distributed, which might not align with your wishes.
• You can plan for the future. A will allows you to decide what happens to any current or future property, savings, and belongings.

Key points to discuss with your spouse:

• Who will inherit your assets if something happens to one or both of you?
• Who will be the executor of your will? This person will ensure your wishes are carried out.
• End-of-life decisions: Would you prefer burial or cremation? Are there any special instructions for your funeral or estate?

It’s a difficult conversation, but making these decisions early provides clarity and prevents potential disputes in the future. If you’re unsure, speaking with a solicitor can help you draft or update your wills legally.

3. Consider a Life Insurance Policy

Marriage is about building a future together, and part of that includes planning for unforeseen circumstances. Life insurance is one of the most important financial protections you can have as a couple, especially if you have shared financial responsibilities, a mortgage, or children.

Here’s why you should consider life insurance:

• It provides financial security if something happens to one of you.
• It helps cover mortgage payments or rent so your spouse isn’t left struggling.
• It ensures any future children or dependents are cared for.
• It can help cover funeral costs and ease the financial burden on your family.

There are different types of life insurance to consider:

• Term Life Insurance: Covers you for a specific period (e.g. 10, 20, or 30 years) and pays out if you pass away during that time.
• Whole Life Insurance: Covers you for life and guarantees a payout whenever you pass away.
• Joint Life Insurance: Covers both partners and pays out once, usually after the first person passes away.

To find the best policy, it’s worth speaking with a financial adviser who can help determine the right level of cover based on your needs and budget.

Even if you decide not to get life insurance immediately, now is a good time to review your existing insurance policies and check what protection you already have in place.

4. Discuss Your Shared Budget and Financial Goals

One of the biggest adjustments after marriage is merging finances and managing household expenses together. Even if you lived together before marriage, it’s important to revisit your financial goals and expectations.

Start by having an honest conversation about:

• Your combined income and expenses – How will you split bills, rent/mortgage, and household costs?
• Banking preferences – Will you keep separate accounts, open a joint account, or use a mix of both?
• Debt and credit scores – Are there any outstanding loans or credit card balances to tackle?
• Long-term financial goals – Do you want to save for a house, travel, start a family, or invest in property?
• Spending habits – What are your views on saving, spending, and financial priorities?

Creating a realistic budget will help avoid money-related conflicts and ensure that you’re both on the same page.

If you’re not sure where to start, consider using:

• Budgeting apps to track expenses.
• Automated savings accounts to put money aside for goals.
• Debt repayment strategies if one or both of you have outstanding balances.

By discussing money openly and working together, you’ll build a financially stable future as a married couple.

Final Thoughts

Marriage is an exciting new chapter, but there are a few practical steps to take as soon as you’re married. By updating legal documents, discussing wills, securing life insurance, and setting a clear budget, you’ll create a strong foundation for your future together.

The earlier you tackle these important tasks, the less stressful they’ll be later on. Open communication, planning, and financial awareness will help ensure a happy and successful marriage.  Aside from changing your name, the rest of these points should really be discussed before marriage too!