How to Request a Last Name Change After Divorce
After a divorce, many individuals choose to change their last name. A request for a name change normally occurs during the divorce, but in some states a request can also be filed after the divorce proceedings. To return to your maiden name or a new name, you must make sure that you do so on all important legal documents. This is a multi-step process, but can be completed with some time and effort.
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Things You'll Need
- Divorce decree
- Petition for name change
- Order for name change
- Form SS-5, application for a Social Security card
Instructions
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Request Last Name Change During Divorce
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Ask the judge to change your last name during the divorce proceedings. Your request to change back to your maiden name or another name will be included in your divorce decree.
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Obtain certified copies of your divorce decree from the court clerk after it has been filed.
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Bring your divorce decree with you when changing your name on important documents. You will need certified copies of the divorce papers to change your name on documents such as your Social Security card and driver's license.
Request Last Name Change after Divorce
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File a petition for name change with the court that presided over your divorce if you did not request a name change during the original divorce proceedings.
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File an order for name change with the county court where you reside.
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Obtain certified copies of the approval for your name change after the form has been accepted by the judge in your county. Copies will be available at the county court clerk's office.
Request a New Social Security Card
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Acquire a Form SS-5, application for a Social Security card, which can be downloaded from the Social Security Administration website or obtained from a local Social Security office. Read the entire document, which will provide information on how to complete and submit the application.
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Provide your Social Security number, place of birth, citizenship, your mailing address and phone number to complete the application for a new Social Security card. Complete the form using blue or black ink only. Sign the form to acknowledge that all of the information you provided is correct.
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Provide supporting documents to certify your identity. For a name change, you must provide documentation with your old and new last name. Acceptable documents include a U.S. driver's license, U.S. identity card (non-driver) or a U.S. passport and a divorce decree.
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Mail the form and supporting documents or go to your local Social Security office. You can search for the nearest Social Security office online by your zip code at the Social Security Administration website. (See Resources.)
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Change your name on all other important documents, including your driver's license, passport, credit cards and bank accounts.
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Tips & Warnings
It is easiest to change your name during the divorce court proceedings, so if you know you want to change your name, request it then instead of waiting until later.
Call 800-772-1213 or visit Social Security Online if you have any questions about getting a new Social Security card.
Some websites offer to change your name on important documents more easily by helping you complete all the needed forms for a fee.
Changing your last name after a divorce will be an emotional journey. It can be a difficult decision that requires time and effort but can also be an important part of the process of moving on after the divorce
References
Resources
- Photo Credit name hand image by drawos from Fotolia.com
