How to Change an English Name

Make your name your own.

Changing your name is a common process, often done when a person is married or divorced. It can also be done for a wide variety of reasons. Often, however, a name change can only be done with the permission of the judge or another state official. Although the laws on changing your name will vary from state to state, there are some steps that must be taken regardless of the state you're in.

Things You'll Need

• State forms

Instructions

1. Research what is needed to change your name in your state. Two things that will be standard are that at least one form will need to be filled out, informing the state that you intend to change your name, and that you will have to declare your new name to any government agencies and corporations that are currently in touch with you. Check your state's official website to locate the name change forms online.

2. Ensure that any name change you may initiate can not be construed as "fraudulent intent" or otherwise violate the law. For example, a name containing obscene words or violating some form of trademark generally would not be approved by the courts. Similarly, if the court believes that you are changing your name to avoid debt collectors or other legal burdens, your name change will be rejected.

3. Fill out and file any necessary forms the state may require. In the case of marriages and divorces, generally the certificate issued by the state will be enough. Examine the certificate and ensure that your married and unmarried name are on the document, and that it was certified by the courts. In other cases, expect to wait six to eight weeks to hear from the state about your name change.

4. Inform anybody you may have legal contact with once your name change is certified by the state. Change the name on any identification you may own. Contact any creditors, banks, professional organizations or corporations you regularly do business with and inform them of the name change. Speak with the human resources department of the company you currently work with to ensure that any records, such as paychecks, are changed over to your new name. If required by your state, take out a classified ad stating your name change in the local newspaper.

References

• New Last Name: Name Change Documents and Process by State
• California Courts Self-Help: How Do I Change My Name?