What Documents Are Needed When I Legally Change My Name?
There are countless reasons why individuals pursue name changes. The court process varies by state, but involves steps beginning with a court filing and the presentation of various documents that prove who you are and set forth why you want your name to be different.
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Filing Document
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Petitioning a state court for a name change isn't necessary if you've just been married, since that document serves as proof for the various agencies that must be contacted about your new name. Otherwise, you will need to start the process by filing a name change petition in the state court closest to where you live. This will contain basic declarations about your name, address and contact information.
Basic Document Support
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For a judge to schedule a hearing and decide on your name change request, several documents must be filed with the court that provide an accurate glimpse into your life. Though these vary by state, you will normally be required to provide proof of residency in the area where you seek the name change, a birth certificate to prove your parental link, and all of the marriage or birth certificates of those residing in your home. Notarized copies of these documents are usually accepted.
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More Specifically
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The court may request further documentation before deciding your name change request. In Florida, for example, the court also may request documents showing whether your name has been changed before and where, as well as papers proving your occupation and information about your employer for the past five years. The judge also may request copies of any degrees you may have received and incarceration records and/or civil court records to ensure no liens have been placed against you. Some states also require the petitioner to take out an advertisement in the local newspaper where the petitioner and/or his business operates.
Post-judgment
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After a judge decides your case, you must take a certified copy of the judgment document to several other agencies to inform them of your new name. A link in the Resources section of this article will walk you through the name change process with the Social Security Administration, but you'll also have to notify: the department of motor vehicles; the U.S. Passport Agency (if necessary); your banks and credit card institutions; the U.S. Postal Service; the local board of elections; the tax collector; your insurers; utility companies and even your employer.
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References
Resources
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