what do i need to do to change my last name

How can you legally change your first name?

You can do this by:

• Introducing yourself using your new name
• Filling out forms and applications under your new name
• Telling your family and friends to only refer to you by your new name
• Informing your school, employer, and other institutions of your new name (some institutions may require legal documentation of your name change).

Can you legally change last name?

In most states, men and women can legally change their last name to their new spouse’s surname, hyphenate their two surnames, or create a new amalgamation of their surnames (like when actors Alexa Vega and Carlos Pena got married in 2014, and changed both of their last names to PenaVega).

How long does it take to change your name?

When you have your Name Change Court Order signed by the judge, you can get A Certified Copy of it that day from the same court. You need the Certified Copy to get your most important records changed. It will take you from 6 weeks to 6 months (usually 8 weeks or so) to get your Court Order. 3.

What to do after a legal name change?

After obtaining a court order granting a name change, you should update important identification records, including your driver's license or other state-issued identification, Social Security card, and your passport. If you changed your name after gender reassignment surgery or as a result of adoption, you can update your birth certificate.

What are all the things I need to change my name on?

Places You Need to Change Your NameSocial Security Card. After your certified marriage license is sent to you (or you pick it up), you will want to apply for a name change on your social security card. ... Driver's License. ... Bank Accounts. ... IRS. ... Voter Registration. ... Passport. ... Post Office. ... Credit Cards.

Can I change my name with Social Security online?

Whatever your reason for your name change, Social Security is here to help you with the new… you! Fill out the form online and follow the instructions to ensure your Social Security card is delivered in a timely manner.

How do I change my name and last name?

Change your legal nameFile a petition with the court. First, you fill out and file court papers and pay a fee.Publish your request in a newspaper. Next, you must publish a notice in a newspaper saying that you are asking the court to legally change your name.Go to a hearing (if required) ... Get your decree.

What proof do I need to change my name on my Social Security card?

Documents Social Security may accept to prove a legal name change include:Marriage document;Divorce decree;Certificate of Naturalization showing the new name; or.Court order approving the name change.

How long does Social Security take to change last name?

While you must provide the SSA with several documents and the completed SSA Form SS-5, the process is simple and takes only a few weeks to get a new card. Once you've changed your Social Security card to your new name, you can make changes to other documents, such as your driver's license, much more easily.

How do I inform Social Security that I got married?

By calling our national toll-free service at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visiting your local Social Security office.

How much does it cost to change your last name?

Name changes cost anywhere from under $100 to more than $500, depending on your state. In many states, fees vary in each county, so check with your local probate, family, or district court clerk. Many states still have fees well under $100.

How difficult is it to change your name?

Depending on where you live, your legal name change process could be as easy as filling out an online form, or as intensive as attending a formal hearing and getting fingerprinted by the FBI. You'll also need to pay a filing fee, which could cost anywhere from $50 in Hawaii to $450 in California.

Can you legally change your last name?

If you are over the age of 18, you can officially change your name. You can choose to change any part of your name, whether it's your forename or surname and can be known as any name as long as it is not for criminal intent or purpose.

Do I need to contact Social Security when I change my name?

If you legally change your name because of marriage, divorce, court order or need to correct your name for other reasons, you must tell Social Security so you can get a replacement SSN card with your correct legal name.

Should I destroy my old Social Security card after name change?

Do not shred original Social Security cards, birth certificates, mortgage paperwork, deeds or wills. However, some experts recommend shredding unneeded photocopies of those documents.

What do I need to change my name when married?

Most banks and similar services will ask you to visit a branch in person, in order to change your name. You will have to bring your marriage certificate (or deed poll) with you, as well as your debit card (if applicable) and proof of ID (for example, your driver's license).

Do I need to contact Social Security when I change my name?

If you legally change your name because of marriage, divorce, court order or need to correct your name for other reasons, you must tell Social Security so you can get a replacement SSN card with your correct legal name.

How do I legally change my name after marriage?

Most banks and similar services will ask you to visit a branch in person, in order to change your name. You will have to bring your marriage certificate (or deed poll) with you, as well as your debit card (if applicable) and proof of ID (for example, your driver's license).

How do I change my last name after getting married in Florida?

Bring a certified copy of your marriage license, your birth certificate, and two forms of bills mailed to your current address (i.e.: utility bills) to the Social Security Administration to apply for a change of name on your social security card. Then take the same information to the DMV to receive a new license.

What to do after you change your name with Social Security?

Complete Form SS-5 Because you changed your name, you will need to apply for a new social security card. You can download it online here. Print out Form SS-5, fill it out, and sign it in your new name.

Why is it important to update your drivers license?

It's especially important to update your drivers license and identification card since both can be used for boarding at airports, cashing checks, and registering to vote. Your county voter registration department. Your State Department for the purpose of updating passport information.

What is the most important form of identification?

Your Social Security card is your most important form of identification. Update this first before notifying other agencies, as some may require a Social Security card showing your new name. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.

Does Facebook stop a name change?

This may be difficult to fathom, but name change notification does not stop at Facebook or Twitter. There are other authorities to notify should your name change due to:

What document is used to change your name?

Original Name Change Document – Such as a Marriage License, Divorce Decree, or Certificate signed by the Judge.

What is the most important document to change your name on?

If the judge approves your application, a decree will be signed which is the most important document because it allows you to change your name on all the most sensitive documents including your passport, driver’s license, birth certificate and social security card.

How much does a marriage ceremony cost?

A Marriage Ceremony is inexpensive when done by the state. Most states charge between $25-$60 dollars when performed by a Marriage Officiant. A Marriage Ceremony must be done within 30 days to 90 days, depending on the state, from the marriage license date of issuance.

Why do you need to make copies of petitions?

Knowledge Tip: The reason for making copies is because you will need to provide a copy of the petition for a change of name form when publishing your new name in the newspaper. Look at Step 4 for more information.

What to bring if you are married and divorced?

If you were recently married or divorced, bring your license or decree.

Why do people change their last name?

People change their name for a variety of reasons. By far the most common reason people change their name (last name) is due to marriage or divorce. Other reasons include: Entertainment Stage Name. Gender Change. State Witness Program. Troubled History. Dislike of Birth Name. Restoring a Former Name.

How to change your name without a lawyer?

There you will find out if you need a lawyer for the process but typically your county clerks office will give you information pertaining to self-help so you can do the name change on your own without hiring a lawyer. Each state has their own procedure so it’s important to go to your local county clerks office to gather this information.

What to know before changing your name?

There are some key things to know before changing your name, ranging from the paperwork this will involve to the time you will need to invest in order to complete the task across all government institutions. Changing your name starts with the desire to do so and is not fully complete until it is reflected accordingly in all of your documents.

What happens after an adoption is approved?

After the adoption application is approved by the judge and the process is finalized, the state will issue a new birth certificate. The new amended birth certificate will be issued replacing the biological parents’ names with the names of the adoptive parents.

Why do people change their names?

In other cases, an individual may choose to do so simply because they dislike their given name.

What evidence is needed to prove your legal name?

Supporting evidence to prove your current legal name, such as your Social Security card, current valid birth certificate, and driver's license or other form of valid photo identification.

How to change your name after marriage?

A legal name change after marriage can be accomplished without court involvement, just by filing the necessary forms. You will need to present your marriage certificate in multiple government institutions, so make sure to have multiple certified copies.

When can you unseal a birth certificate?

Many states seal the original birth certificate but then grant the adoptee access once they turn 18, while others require a court petition in order to unseal the original document.

How long does it take to get your name changed on your passport?

Your credit history is tied to your old name, so make sure to inquire about how to preserve your good credit. It may take weeks to get your name changed on your passport, so if you are traveling abroad, for your honeymoon, for instance, plan accordingly.

How to change your name on your marriage license?

As soon as your identification has been updated with your new name, head to your local bank branch to update the information on your bank accounts. Note that most banks require that these changes be made in person, or will require you to mail in a certified copy of your marriage license if you don't live near a physical location. If you're going in person, bring the following documents with you: 1 A certified copy of your marriage license 2 Your new Social Security card 3 Your new driver's license.

How to change your name on credit card?

For example, American Express has a form on its website (in the Account Services tab) where you can edit your personal information. You'll need to upload a supporting document (it requests your driver's license, state ID card, or passport) that shows your new name, and once processed, a new card will be mailed to you. Other companies request that a certified copy of your marriage license be mailed to them in order to process the change. Contact your credit card company directly to determine the best way to have a card issued with your new name .

What is the proof of citizenship?

Proof of citizenship: your valid passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate.

What is proof of address?

Proof of address, if required in your state. This could be your lease or mortgage documents, insurance documents, or a bill or bank statement that is mailed to your home address.

What size photo is needed for passport?

A recent color photograph, 2-by-2 inches in size, that meets passport photo requirements.

How much does it cost to change your name on a passport?

However, if you've had your current passport for a year or more, the fee for a change and a new passport book is $110 (plus an expedite fee if you're in a rush to get on your honeymoon).

Who is Jaimie Mackey?

Jaimie Mackey was the Brides real weddings editor from 2013 to 2015. She also worked as a luxury wedding planning producing over 100 high-end weddings and events over four wedding seasons in Colorado.

How long does it take to update a passport?

Update your passport. Passports have the slowest turnaround time (up to six weeks , though you can pay a $60 fee to expedite the delivery), so apply for a new one as soon as your social security card arrives. If your current passport is more than one year old, a $110 fee is required.

How to change your name on your social security card?

Gather your marriage certificate, an application for a social security card, and proof of citizenship, age, and identity (a passport should do the trick). Submit the documents via mail, or drop them off in person at a social security office. Once your new card arrives, it's official: Your name is changed. Next, it's time to update your personal documents and notify any businesses with your name on file.

What is a marriage certificate?

Your marriage certificate is the number one tool you'll use during the name change process. Unlike your marriage license (which you receive before your ceremony), your certificate states that you are legally married. Request multiple copies so you can send them simultaneously, as most changes will require a certified version.

Where is mail sent?

Mail is sent where it's addressed, but the United States Postal Service recommends notifying your local post office.

Can I change my name after marriage?

Changing your name after marriage isn't as easy as saying "I do." The lingo, paperwork, state-specific rules can make it a jumble. If you're at a loss for how to legally change your name now that you're married, we're here to help. The most important thing to remember is that this process takes weeks, so make all changes in one fell swoop-that means on your social security card, license, and passport-to avoid confusion (or issues with your tax returns ). Follow these steps to simplify the process.

Name Change by State

How to Change Your Name

• People change their name for a variety of reasons. By far the most common reason people change their name (last name) is due to marriage or divorce. Other reasons include: 1. Entertainment Stage Name 2. Gender Transition 3. State Witness Program 4. Troubled History 5. Dislike of Birth Name 6. Restoring a Former Name 7. Family Fallout The process of...

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Name Change After Marriage