The Process to Legally Change a Name
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Name Change Requirements
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The most widely recommended method to change a name is to obtain a court order. This allows the new name to be recognized by banks and the government without problems.
To receive this court name change, you must show that the change is not made for fraudulent purposes. A name cannot be changed to escape a lawsuit, for example, or to impersonate a famous person.
The chosen name cannot be deliberately confusing or insulting. As long as these requirements are met, however, the legal name change process is usually very straightforward.
Name Change Steps
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The first step for a legally ordered name change is to apply with the proper court. This is usually the county court. A simple form, available in person or in the mail, must be filled out and returned to the court office.
A judge will review the proposed name change. If needed, he can call you to answer questions regarding the change, but this is usually not necessary.
Once the court approves the name change and issues new legal name documents, agencies must be notified. The most important groups to contact include the Social Security Administration, driver's license office, and banking institutions. These groups have forms available to register the new name.
Finally, the new name should be used exclusively. Friends and family should be told of the change. Using the new name early and often reduces confusion and helps smooth the transition.
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Different Circumstances
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In addition to the standard court-ordered process, there are several other possible method for name changes.
It is possible to change a name without paperwork. This is called the "usage method" and is done by using a new name exclusively until it is recognized. While legal, this method is often very time-consuming. With identity security a rising concern, many banks require legal documentation issued from a court.
Separations, such as divorce, slightly change the process. Because there is already legal documentation for a divorce, a separate court application is usually not needed. The divorce decree can be used as proof of the name change. Agencies and banks, of course, will still need to be informed of the change.
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References
- Photo Credit U.S. Government Public Image
