How to Change the Last Name Without Changing the Birth Certificate
The most common form of surname change to a birth certificate occurs after marriage or divorce, but there are many other instances when the last name may be changed, such as adoption. In most cases, changing the last name does not require any alteration to the original birth certificate. Though some states permit the last name to be changed without paperwork simply by usage, this practice is falling out of popularity. Typically, changing the last name is not a difficult legal process.
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Instructions
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Hire an attorney if special circumstances exist. If you are changing your last name to avoid an abusive spouse, if you are changing a child's name and think the other parent may object, if you have a prior felony, or if your request has been denied in the past, you will probably need an attorney.
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File a time to have your name changed at your local county court. Most counties require that you have proof of county citizenship for at least a year. This proof could be in the form of a driver's license or copies of paid county bills, such as a water bill. You may also have to provide proof that you are not trying to change your name fraudulently by submitting fingerprints, your original birth certificate and perhaps undergoing a background check. These measures are in place to reduce identity theft.
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Arrive in court prepared with all required legal forms. In most cases, you will be informed of any additional materials you will need to bring with you the day of your hearing. As long as the name change is undisputed, you should have no trouble with your request. The judge will issue a legal name change document.
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Take the name change document to your local Department of Motor Vehicles, social security office and passport center to obtain new copies of your license, social security card and passport. You will also need to turn in your original copies of these documents. For other matters, such as credit cards and insurance, you will need to contact the company directly to change your name in their records.
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Tips & Warnings
It is best to investigate the laws regarding name change in your state and county prior to filing with the court. Many times this information can be obtained through county websites or by sending an inquiry to the local civil court.
