It is becoming increasingly common for parents to give their child both of their last names. There are several reasons why parents may choose to do this, and in most places it is perfectly legal. Here is a look at the background behind hyphenated last names for children, the pros and cons, and steps for how to go about it if you choose to give your child both parents’ surnames.
Background on Hyphenated Last Names
Traditionally, children have taken only their father’s last name. However, as cultural norms have shifted towards more gender equality, many parents want to give the mother’s family name equal weight by passing it on too. Hyphenating both parents’ last names is a compromise that allows the child to honor both sides of the family.
While not yet the majority, hyphenated last names for kids are increasingly common in the U.S. A 2010 study found that roughly 20% of babies born that year had hyphenated last names. That number continues to grow as more parents embrace the choice to blend surnames.
Legal Considerations
There are no laws in the U.S. prohibiting a child from having a hyphenated last name using both parents’ surnames. The choice is left up to the parents. Even if the parents themselves do not have hyphenated names, they can still choose to give their child a combination of both their last names.
The process and requirements may vary somewhat by state. However, all states allow both parents’ last names as long as certain paperwork is completed.
Social Implications
While hyphenated last names are increasingly common, they are still outside the mainstream norm in the U.S. Some parents worry their child may face minor social challenges with a long, hyphenated surname. For example, the length may pose difficulties filling out forms or applications.
However, advocates point out that any issues are generally minor. And hyphenated names allow both parents’ families to feel recognized in an age striving for gender equality. Studies show the potential disadvantages tend to decrease as blended names become more mainstream.
Pros of Hyphenated Last Names
Here are some of the main benefits parents see in choosing a hyphenated last name for their child:
- Equality: Giving the child both surnames recognizes both parents’ lineage.
- Bonding: Sharing a last name helps build family unity.
- Simplicity: Avoid having to choose one parent’s name over the other’s.
- Tradition: Allows both parents to pass on surname traditions.
- Compromise: Blending names can be a good compromise between spouses.
Many parents see hyphenating as the fairest and most equitable choice. Since it is increasingly common, it also will not typically result in major hassles for the child.
Cons of Hyphenated Last Names
There are also some potential downsides that parents should weigh:
- Length: A hyphenated surname is long and may not fit on forms.
- Misspelling: Uncommon names are more prone to misspelling.
- Confusion: Some governmental computer systems can’t handle hyphens.
- Difficulty: Carrying on the tradition to the next generation can get complicated.
- Disagreement: Combining names requires compromise between parents.
In particular, the length of hyphenated names can sometimes be an annoyance. But many feel the benefits outweigh minor hassles. Discussing the pros and cons together can help couples reach agreement.
How to Give Your Child Hyphenated Last Names
If you decide you want your child to carry both parents’ surnames, here are some important steps to take:
- Discuss options together and get agreement between both parents.
- Decide on the order and hyphenation style you want.
- Fill out birth forms using the full hyphenated name.
- Get a Social Security card using the combined surname.
- Make sure the hyphenated name is on other documents like passports.
It is essential that both parents are on the same page. Make sure all documents use the same punctuation and ordering of the hyphenated names. Be consistent using the full hyphenated surname on all legal paperwork to avoid complications.
Name Order Choices
Two common options for name order are:
- Father’s last name followed by mother’s last name
- Mother’s last name followed by father’s last name
But you can choose any sequence. Talk together about which flow you prefer. Keep in mind the social norm is still kids getting the paternal surname last.
Hyphenation Styles
Some common hyphenation options include:
- Full hyphen: Smith-Johnson
- Middle hyphen: Smith Johnson-Smith
- Space: Smith Johnson
The middle hyphen style keeps the mother’s maiden name intact while adding the father’s surname. But know that computer systems sometimes default to dropping elements after hyphens. The full hyphen minimizes confusion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Parents considering a hyphenated last name often have additional questions. Here are answers to some common queries.
Is a Hyphen Required for Two Last Names?
There is no legal requirement for a hyphen when combining parents’ names. But using a hyphen minimizes confusion and makes it clear the child has a blended surname from both families.
What Happens When My Child Grows Up?
Once they are adults, your children can legally change their name to whatever they want, including dropping part of a hyphenated name. But many kids choose to keep their distinctive surnames.
What About Middle Names?
There’s no need to drop a middle name when creating a hyphenated surname. Many kids have first, middle, and double-barreled last names.
Can Hyphenating Cause Legal Issues?
There are rarely major legal hurdles. But consistently using the fully hyphenated name on all legal documents will reduce complications.
What’s Better – Hyphenated or Combined?
Combined names like “SmithJohnson” run together without a hyphen. But hyphens make it clear the child has a blended last name from both families.
Example Situations
Here are some examples of how hyphenated names work in practice:
Two Hyphenated Parents
| Mother | Father | Child Options |
|---|---|---|
| Mary Smith-Johnson | John Edwards-Adams | Smith-Johnson-Edwards-Adams Edwards-Adams-Smith-Johnson |
If both parents already have hyphenated names, you can hyphenate all four names or choose a subset.
One Hyphenated Parent
| Mother | Father | Child Options |
|---|---|---|
| Elizabeth Adams | Mark Smith-Brown | Adams-Smith-Brown Smith-Brown-Adams |
The parents’ non-hyphenated name gets hyphenated along with the other parent’s surname.
No Hyphenated Parents
| Mother | Father | Child Options |
|---|---|---|
| Michelle Johnson | David Williams | Johnson-Williams Williams-Johnson |
The parents’ two names get hyphenated in either order.
Conclusion
Hyphenating both last names is a choice that more parents are making to give their child an egalitarian blended surname. While it comes with occasional minor hassles, many feel giving kids both parents’ last names has significant benefits for family bonding and gender equality that outweigh the disadvantages.
With some planning and consistency using the full hyphenated name on all documents, you can minimize legal complications. Consider your options carefully, but know that hyphenating to pass on both parents’ names is generally a perfectly valid choice if it feels right for your family.