If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. This article has been viewed 302,742 times. not LegalZoom, and have not been evaluated by LegalZoom for accuracy, Its possible your state requires that you submit a petition after the divorce, similar to anyone else wanting a name change (for reasons other than a divorce). Divorce decree vs. divorce certificate: What's the difference? our post-purchase services, however, you can request a refund within 30 days of purchase. 2min read. You can't. Enjoy! Your request has been successfully submitted. If youd like your passport update to be processed faster, you can pay a $60 expedition fee and youll receive your passport in 2-3 weeks. If youve worked professionally under your married name, it may also be wise to maintain your current name. Youre likely to find places where you need to update your name for several months after your name change is final. Prove your age and identity. If your name has been changed in a divorce decree, either originally or amended, be sure to keep a copy of the order as proof of your name change. Its relatively easy to update your name with the power company or your cell phone service provider. 4 Make a deposit payment if required. Your divorce decree serves as your legal name change document. In most states, there is a simple form that you will fill out to get a new license. Show a certified copy of your divorce decree or court order for a name change (available from your court clerk's office) Show proof of residency or U.S. citizenship. If youre required to present proof, these documents will do the trick. If you are in a difficult financial situation, it's possible to get a divorce without paying a dime. Changing your name after divorce. Can I Get Married Right After Getting Divorced? Turning on utilities requires some work and several calls; one company doesnt provide all the services you may need. If you're declaring a name change, you'll typically need to show a government ID bearing your new name, your name change certificate and, for newlyweds taking their spouse's last name, your marriage certificate. 1) Joint mortgage payments For more information from our Legal co-author, like how to change your name on your drivers license or social security card, scroll down! Theres no incorrect reason to keep your name, just like theres no wrong reason to change it. If you're declaring a name change, you'll typically need to show a government ID bearing your new name, your name change certificate and, for newlyweds taking their spouse's last name, your marriage certificate. Have your current account numbers at each utility if youre shutting down service and a credit card or checking account number if you're activating service; some providers require a deposit and/or a transfer fee. If your mail gets lost theres nothing you can do. How much money does it cost to change a name? In addition, we cannot guarantee that a customer's spouse will sign the documents and cannot This step may not be necessary if your divorce decree clearly states that youll be changing your last name back to your previous or maiden name, but having your birth certificate or an old passport should guarantee you have enough evidence of your former name. Your credit card companies will issue you a new card with your current name. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or another form of TSA-approved identification to board a domestic commercial flight. If you are getting or have gotten divorced and no longer want to use your ex-spouses last name, there are a few ways you can affect a name change after divorce. What if a bill is put into my name without permission? The advice on pro bono representation is a great relief to me, and I'm sure for others as well, who also need aid. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. The average person needs to change their name in over 20 places! However, it is important to remember that any debts accumulated as a result of late repayments will reduce the overall matrimonial pot, and will potentially reduce the share available to both spouses. Go to your California County Clerks Office and bring: A black pen to fill out any forms (black ink is required) Your divorce case number and stamped petition. "All of the information is useful and concise. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. not legal advice. Though doing so may sound complicated, the process is actually quite simple once you know all the steps. Moving to a new home can be one of lifes great adventures if you plan ahead. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. You can call your utility company and explain the reason for the name change. are in your new name. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. For some, changing their last name back is an act of reclaiming their identity after a negative experience. Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your surname. No, divorce decrees do not expire because its a court order. Your updated passport will arrive in 6-8 weeks so plan accordingly. After the petition is signed, file it with the clerk. Important: If you visited the SSA office in person,wait at least 48 hours before visiting the DMV to get a new drivers license. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Your employer needs your current name for payroll and tax purposes. Your bank may be able to issue you a temporary debit card while theyre processing your request for a new debit card with your name on it. WebHow to Change the Name on a Utility Bill Name Change on Marriage or Divorce. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We use cookies to enhance your experience while using our website. In most cases, they only need evidence in the form of a photo of your current ID or license. Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter. Note that this may be unnecessary paperwork, however, as explained more fully below, so be sure your state requires this before going down this road. Voting is important and your new name will have to be properly registered with your state to vote. Complete end-to-end help from an independent attorney, licensed in your state, with negotiated rates. Changing your name after divorce may also be accomplished through online forms if your state requires a petition filed with the court. Last Updated: September 22, 2021 If you're declaring a name change, you'll typically need to show a government ID bearing your new name, your name change certificate and, for newlyweds taking their spouse's last name, your marriage certificate. This way theres zero chance of you losing your drivers license, passport, birth certificate, divorce decree, or other very important personal documents in the mail. Then, they should get the forms reviewed and make copies, before filing the forms with the court clerk. The content is The process of changing your name after a divorce is very similar to the process of changing your name after you get married, but it has a few additional steps. You can update your name online (in most states) by visiting, Most divorces result in an address change which is why its important to keep your name updated with USPS. Such products, coverages, terms, and discounts may vary by state and exclusions may apply. At the time you file the petition, make copies for your own records. Our custom name change kits contain everything you need to change your name after divorce. This portion of the site is for informational purposes only. . Some people choose to keep their married names after a divorce, especially if they have children. Lastly, update your name with your service providers. These companies often allow name modification for valid reasons. Most banks require you to visit a branch location with your updated photo ID and your divorce decree or court order. While youre at the DMV, you can also update your voter registration with your new name. Affordable, flat rate legal advice from an independent attorney licensed in your state, to make sure you do everything right. How To Change Your Name After Divorce: An 11-Step Guide Step 1 Get your divorce decree. Since you will be changing your name, you will need to make the connection from your current last name to the last name youd like to get back. LegalZoom provides access to independent attorneys and self-service tools. Then, file your petition with the court and attend a name change hearing, if its required by your state. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. Utilities (electric, gas, water, garbage, etc. How to change the name on your Social Security card. Most employers only need a copy of your ID to make the change. The statements and opinions are the expression of the author, 1) When you break up with someone whom you live with, be sure to have a dialogue about bills and whose name is attached to what so you dont end up in a $nafu. However, some may require you to file a new application for a utility account. Voting is important and your new name will have to be properly registered with your state to vote. If you're moving to a new place, call the utility company before you leave to make sure everything's been transferred over successfully. Have your current account numbers at each utility if youre shutting down service and a credit card or checking account number if you're activating service; some providers require a deposit and/or a transfer fee. Show a certified copy of your divorce decree or court order for a name change (available from your court clerk's office) Show proof of residency or U.S. citizenship. If youre divorced and your divorce decree doesnt allow you to change your name, then the only other way to get your maiden name back would be to petition for a court-ordered name change. ", so I wasn't aware that I needed to fill out a petition for a name change. Typically, you can bring the form to your divorce hearing. The Social Security Administration will officially process your name change. WebTo file a Petition for Change of Name, one must first fill out the necessary forms, which can be completed online or downloaded here. If you dont have a passport, you dont need to follow this step. It is clear to understand and had every single step to do. Clinton M. Sandvick worked as a civil litigator in California for over 7 years. While its tempting to avoid the hassle of visiting a government office and simply mail your application in, we recommend visiting the SSA office in person. Updated Nov 16, 2022. Get the right guidance with an attorney by your side. Mail the form (using certified mail) and supporting documents to address listed on the Social Security Administration website. If the timing of your name change disrupts a pay period or cannot be processed in time for you to get paid on the proper date, ask your employer to write you out a paper check instead of processing your direct deposit. Your name is tethered to your social security number, and the two combine to form your legal identity. You may want to start a new chapter in your life, or perhaps you were already using your maiden name for work purposes even while you were married. If necessary, publish the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name and go to your court hearing. Youll need to bring your Global Entry card, passport (in your new name), and your divorce decree or court order. Ask if you can update your name over the phone. Step 1 get your divorce, especially if they have children if you plan.. Employer needs your current driver 's license with the court clerk after divorce several calls ; one company doesnt all. Back is an act of reclaiming their identity after a divorce, you can update your voter with... Or court order ( in your state requires a petition for a?. May require you to visit a branch location with your new name have. 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