Steps to Legally Change Your Name
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Obtain Identification Records
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In order to legally change your name, it is necessary to obtain your original birth certificate. In the event you do not possess the original document, you will need to order a certified birth certificate from the office in your jurisdiction that is responsible for maintaining birth certificates. This office is sometimes an office of public health, registrar or a state records office. You will have to provide a written request with the reason for the request and include a copy of your photo identification, such as a passport and/or drivers license. It is also important to check with the office in order to see if there are any additional requirements, as each jurisdiction possess different prerequisites to disbursement of a certified birth certificate.
Petition for Name Change
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Once you have your original or certified copy of your birth certificate, you must petition the court for a name change. Every state's courts have different forms to utilize for the name change, as well as different requirements for obtaining court approval of the name change. Generally, the name change form is referred to as a "petition for name change" and includes provisions to indicate the reason for the name change. Usually, the reason for the name change must be reasonable. For instance, if a person seeks to have a maiden name restored after a divorce, or if a child seeks to change her last name to reflect their other parent, such reasons would be reasonable. Additionally, you may be required to appear before the court in order to explain why you are seeking a name change. Thereafter, the court will render its decision. If the court approves the petition, the court will provide a signed court order.
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Update Social Security Records and Other Records
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Once the petition has been approved by the court, it is necessary to update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA will require identification in addition to the original signed court order containing the new name. The change of name must be done in person at your local SSA office. In addition, one should change all other important records, such as employment records, drivers licenses, investment accounts, checking accounts, billing addresses, last will and testaments, estate planning documents and any other record which is usually relied upon by another entity.
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