I know I should have taken my husband's last name a looong time ago when we got married but now we are about to apply for naturalization and I dont want to have my maiden name anymore, I want to take my husband's last name. SO my question is , in California, should I change my name before, during or after naturalization?... which would be faster, less complicated, etc?. Please notice my home country's passport would have to remain with my maiden name since it hasnt expired yet. Thank you guys!.

On the N 400, naturalization application, there is a question that specifically asks if you want to change your name. It seems that that would be the most convenient way to do it. My kids are far from that point yet, but I have been reading ahead, trying to help them not make innocent mistakes in the process that could come back to haunt them.