NOW THAT YOU ARE MARRIED

For most of us, our last serious step into adulthood is to get married and start a family of our own. People getting married have all kinds of concerns--the ceremony, the honeymoon, setting up a household--but they often forget important legal matters.

Change the Name
Women often choose to change their surnames when they get married. If you do, make sure to change your name on all important documents, such as your Social Security card and your driver's license.

Change the Beneficiaries
Make sure that insurance policies, retirement accounts, bank accounts, and similar documents name your new spouse as your beneficiary in case you die.

Get a Will
A will allows you to specify who gets property when you die, other than property for which you are able to designate a beneficiary, and also allows you to establish trusts for the care of your children.

Know the Law
Your change in status changes your responsibilities. Spouses in Illinois owe each other a duty of support. Earnings during the marriage are treated as being earned by both. Husband and wife may both be liable on a lease, mortgage, or other contract.

Your marriage is a significant change in your life. Recognizing that this is the case, and planning for it, will serve you well in the long run.