How to Change a Name After Marriage in Kansas
A name change due to marriage is a common process typically handled automatically through the marriage licensing process in Kansas. When the new name isn't added to the marriage license and the marriage has already taken place, changing your name becomes somewhat more complicated. After the marriage ceremony, changing your name requires that you go through the courts. In this case, you'll have to obtain a judge's permission for the change before the name change is official.
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Instructions
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File a petition with the district court in the county in which you reside. Include in the petition: 1) a statement that you are a resident of the state with at least 60 days residency; 2) your reason for making the name change; and 3) the new name you wish to have. Wait for the court to establish a hearing date before a judge. Notice of the date will either be published in a newspaper for three weeks prior to the hearing date in the resident county or sent to you though registered or certified mail. You can download petition forms from the New Last Name website listed in the Resources section of this article.
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Appear before the court at your hearing and answer any questions the presiding judge may have. As long as the judge finds reasonable cause for the name change, such change will be granted.
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Update your official records, informing government agencies or commercial institutions you do business with of your new last name. Agencies or organizations that you should inform include the Social Security Administration, the DMV if you have a state-issued license or ID card, your bank and your employer or school. You should inform any other organizations that you have significant professional or personal business with as well.
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Tips & Warnings
Skip the court hearing by changing your name through the use of your marriage license before the wedding.
References
Resources
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