How to Return to a Maiden Name After the Death of a Spouse
While it is extremely easy for a woman to take her husband's name at marriage, since most states simply allow her to automatically change it for free if she wishes at that time, going back to a maiden name after a spouse dies is a little more complicated. To return to your maiden name---no matter what the circumstances---most states require you to go through the regular name-change process (divorces are occasionally an exception to this rule).
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Instructions
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Research the name change procedure for your state, as every state has its own process. A great resource for this is the website www.newlastname.org, which allows you to search by state for the procedures and forms required.
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Obtain the necessary forms. These are generally available from the office that provides legal forms in your state (often through circuit court offices or state law libraries). The forms for each state are also available for download at www.newlastname.org.
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Fill out the form(s), and collect any required documentation. You may need to provide your birth certificate, marriage certificate and other forms of identification. Make sure you have official, original copies of everything. There is also a fee for changing your name; this fee varies from state to state.
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Determine if a court appearance is required, as some states do require this for a name change. Returning to a maiden name is pretty routine, so this should not be a big deal, but it will need to be scheduled and might come with a separate fee. Again, www.newlastname.org can help you check on this requirement.
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Once the state recognizes your name change, make sure you change all your official documents. Get your name changed on your driver's licence, social security card, passport, credit cards and any other important identification. Notify your bank and any boards you have official professional licenses from.
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Tips & Warnings
It can be helpful to have legal counsel for a name change, especially in states where the procedures are especially complicated. If you don't have a lawyer and want legal counsel on a name change, www.newlastname.org has recommendations for reputable legal resources.
