What Do I Have to Do to Legally Change My Last Name

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There are a few more details to consider before formalizing your new name. From the details of hyphenated surnames to how to treat a new surname in the workplace, you need to remember the following important details if they apply to your situation. Now that your identity and bank accounts match, contact your company`s human resources department or payroll processor to provide your new information as soon as possible. This way, your cheques will be issued with the correct name and direct deposits will be processed correctly. Note, however, that there may be certain restrictions you can change your name to, including, but not limited to, the following: Not in most states, but it`s useful. In most states, you can legally change your name by simply using it. You can choose a name and use it simply in social environments and in your business. This may be a completely legal name change. Regardless of the reason for the child`s name change, the court usually requires that the standard that the name change is in the best interests of the child. The publication of a public announcement of a name change may be required by your state. This means publishing your name change in a local newspaper. Sometimes this requirement may be waived, but this decision is at the discretion of the court. The publication of your name change raises objections, which must be submitted within a deadline set by the court.

After receiving a court order granting a name change, you must update important identifying information, including your driver`s license or other government-issued ID, birth certificate, Social Security card, and passport. If you are married or divorced and your name has been changed, you do not need to update your birth certificate. Marriage and divorce are by far the most common reasons why people change their names. Generally, if you change your name after you get married, a marriage certificate is the only thing you need. A divorce decree is all you need to change your name again after the divorce. There are many reasons why someone might want to change their name, often after a marriage or divorce. The process of legally changing your name usually involves requesting your name change and using your new name. Unfortunately, if you have a Global Entry card, you will not be able to change your name online as you will get a new passport number if you change your name on your passport. However, you don`t have to make an appointment months in advance. Once you have received your new passport, simply bring it to the nearest registration center where you can update your account information. You will keep your current Global Entry card (along with your maiden name) because the digital data attached to your card will reflect your new information and match your passport, even if the physical card does not.

If you prefer to get a new card with your new name, you can order one through your Global Entry account (after personally updating your passport information) for a $25 fee. Generally, you can legally change your name to any name you want, although state marriage laws can also provide additional legal advice. However, there are some exceptions. For example, you cannot: Consider contacting these individuals and institutions about your name change: Of course, if you are on your honeymoon outside the country, you will need your passport and your passport must match your tickets. If you have your new passport when you travel, book the ticket under your new name. If you do not have your new passport at the moment, respect your maiden name when booking the ticket. Decide which name you will use professionally and send an email to your colleagues, customers and suppliers when you return from your honeymoon and introduce yourself again with the name you used. This is especially important if your business changes your email address to reflect your new last name. If you don`t change it, you may want to let your colleagues know as well. If you encounter instances where your old name still exists, you should fix these errors. A change of name form must be completed.

This is the main document used to submit your name change request. This document can be mailed or submitted online, depending on the state. Once the form and other documents are completed, go to your local district office to have them checked. This can save you a lot of time and hassle if you have made a mistake while filling out the form. If it is completed by mail, be sure to make 2 copies of the form and send the original. An application fee is charged by most states, but in some cases it is possible to request a fee waiver. Talking to a family attorney about your state`s specific rules for a name change can help you prepare for future contingencies. Bring all documents with you to your audience. Arrive early and don`t be late. It is your responsibility to find the right courtroom if you do not have a lawyer to help you through the process.

If the judge approves your application, a decree will be signed, which is the most important document, as it allows you to change your name on all the most sensitive documents, including passport, driver`s license, birth certificate, and social security card. Once you have changed all your sensitive documents, you can go to your bank and have the name of your debit/credit cards changed. The very first step to changing your name starts with your local district office. There, you`ll know if you need a lawyer for the process, but usually your county office will give you self-help information so you can make the name change yourself without hiring a lawyer. Each state has its own procedure, so it`s important to go to your local county office to gather this information. To change your name on a Social Security card, you must go to a local SSA office by entering your zip code. Once you have found the office, you can either visit during business hours or call and make an appointment. Name changes cost a few hundred dollars and vary depending on where you sign up. If you mix up or create a new name, you have to go to court. The exact logistics vary from state to state, but you`ll seek a court order, likely from the county clerk. If you want to change your name for reasons other than those described above, the legal name change process usually involves filing an application with the court first. Maybe you`ve never identified with your old name and just want a fresh start, for example.

If your application is accepted, the court will issue an order with your new name. You will need a certified copy of your original marriage certificate or an original certified copy of the judgment (court order) to change your name. The process of legally changing your name differs depending on the laws of your state and why you want the change. At least it takes about 6 weeks from start to finish. Depending on your condition, the name change process can take anywhere from 6 months to 12 months. For example, Florida requires you to file your fingerprints for a criminal record check with the Department of Law Enforcement, and you can`t apply to change your name until the court gets the results. It is these types of requests that can slow down the name change process. Be sure to change your name on all your personal and legal documents such as wills, deeds, titles, trusts, accounts and powers of attorney. Changing your name on estate planning documents will make it much easier for your heirs in the future. While your heirs may not be disinherited due to a name discrepancy, they may need to go through other steps to show your previous name and true identity before receiving their share. Once your ID has been updated with your new name, go to your local bank branch to update your bank account information.