Start by looking through your checking account and credit card statements for things you auto-pay each month. Now youre going to want to update your passport to match your new name. You dont need to change your name after a divorce, but some people choose to change their names for a variety of reasons. Yes, its technically your legal last name so its totally up to you whether you keep it or drop it for your maiden or birth name. WebChanging your name requires a few simple steps to follow: 1. If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. During your divorce, youll be asked if youd like to resume your former name when the divorce is finalized. WebSituation 1: Submit a Request to the Divorce Court Judge. Theyll need a certified copy of your divorce decree, your passport or drivers license, your original security social security card, and a certified copy of your birth certificate. Some landlords include utility services in your normal housing bill, meaning you won't have to put them in your name. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Now that you have proof of your divorce, its time to let the government know that youre changing your legal name. In addition, if you're selling a home, leaving the utilities on gives the buyers a chance to do a final walkthrough on their closing date if necessary. As a bonus, the IRS is automatically notified when your name is updated with the SSA. Changing your name after divorce. Your original Social Security card. Note: TSA has been inconsistent with name changes so be patient. Freelance writer and editor Michelle Kaminsky, Esq. Then reach out to that person to ensure you have homeowners, renters insurance in place at the new abode. If youd like to get a first-time passport after your name change, you can get a first-time passport "I represented myself in my divorce and did not attend any of the workshops available to me because of the distance, "I researched the name change process after filing for a divorce. Are You Eligible for No-Fault Divorce: A Checklist, School/work, including payroll and retirement plans, State tax authority (IRS is notified automatically through the SSA). While youre at the DMV, you can also update your voter registration with your new name. Some people keep their married names simply because they dont like their former last names. How To Change Your Name After Divorce: An 11-Step Guide Step 1 Get your divorce decree. You dont want to walk around without an ID or a valid license for the length of time it takes the SSA to process your documents. 1 attorney answer. If your name has been changed in a divorce decree, either originally or amended, be sure to keep a copy of the order as proof of your name change. If you have a valid passport that was issued >12 months ago, youll use Form DS-82. If the timing of your name change disrupts a pay period or cannot be processed in time for you to get paid on the proper date, ask your employer to write you out a paper check instead of processing your direct deposit. Attorneys with you, every step of the way. Terms of Use and If you cant call the number on the back of your card. Global Entry and TSA PreCheck share the same name database so your name change will automatically pass through to TSA PreCheck. 1) Joint mortgage payments I am now residing in my own place so I need a PG&E account for my new residence. For tips on how to set up a new utility, scroll down! not legal advice. Changing your name can be a lengthy process. Similarly, if you purchase a package with Youll simply explain to the judge that you got divorced and show your divorce decree. If your mail gets lost theres nothing you can do. Our network attorneys have an average customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Step 2 Find legal proof of your former name. Now I can take the next step to change my name. Some utility providers may allow you to alter your billing information through their official website. If you attempt to make a purchase, it may be incorrectly flagged as fraud or theft. 1) When you break up with someone whom you live with, be sure to have a dialogue about bills and whose name is attached to what so you dont end up in a $nafu. Then, you need to turn them on at your new dwelling ideally prior to the arrival of the moving van. This way theres zero chance of you losing your drivers license, passport, birth certificate, divorce decree, or other very important personal documents in the mail. Its possible your state requires that you submit a petition after the divorce, similar to anyone else wanting a name change (for reasons other than a divorce). However, it is important to remember that any debts accumulated as a result of late repayments will reduce the overall matrimonial pot, and will potentially reduce the share available to both spouses. Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter. At Divorce.com, we care about our customers and stand by the quality of our At the time you file the petition, make copies for your own records. They enjoy the unity of sharing a family name, even if that name also belongs to their former spouse. . Youll need to provide the following documents: If youre not a U.S. citizen, visit this link will help you determine which documents youll need to present in order to update your name with the SSA. Then, file your petition with the court and attend a name change hearing, if its required by your state. Must contain your full name and address. Try changing your name online. Always use a mailing method that uses a tracking number when submitting your applications. If you waited 48 hours after changing your name with the SSA, you can bring your old Social Security card and a copy of the receipt the SSA gave you verifying your name change. Go to your California County Clerks Office and bring: A black pen to fill out any forms (black ink is required) Your divorce case number and stamped petition. WebSituation 1: Submit a Request to the Divorce Court Judge. Turning on utilities requires some work and several calls; one company doesnt provide all the services you may need. Youll need to contact your states vital records office. not LegalZoom, and have not been evaluated by LegalZoom for accuracy, Note that this may be unnecessary paperwork, however, as explained more fully below, so be sure your state requires this before going down this road. Privacy I am now residing in my own place so I need a PG&E account for my new residence. An original or certified copy of your divorce decree or court order. It is clear to understand and had every single step to do. We provide significant services beyond the generation of your divorce forms. These companies often allow name modification for valid reasons. How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take? Youll fill out The person you are trying to transfer it to has to call or visit the utility provider and request a bill transfer, providing proof of identity. first 30 days of purchase if you're unhappy with our services. A self-address stamped envelope. Show a certified copy of your divorce decree or court order for a name change (available from your court clerk's office) Show proof of residency or U.S. citizenship. If you want to change to an entirely new last name or to a new name altogether, different provisions are likely to apply to your situation; you may have to file a formal name change petition with the court, for instance. Two (2) documents are required such as a utility bill, mortgage/lease statement, bank statement, or credit card statement. WebHow to Change the Name on a Utility Bill Name Change on Marriage or Divorce. Removing Someone from the Account. How To Change Your Name After Divorce: An 11-Step Guide Step 1 Get your divorce decree. Updating your passport is technically a correction so youll be able to submit everything by mail. Some states dont require any paperwork at all when changing your name after divorce. Read more. Gather necessary documentation that must accompany the form. Some parents find that its easier to maintain the same last name as their children. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or another form of TSA-approved identification to board a domestic commercial flight. Prove your age and identity. Most petitions also ask for a reason why someone wants to change their name. Divorce Services has been working with LegalZoom since 2004. If your passport has been expired for >5 years or youd like to apply for your first passport, youll need to complete Form DS-11. Changing your name after divorce. However, if youre already divorced and want to change your name, go to your state courts website to find out what to do. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 302,742 times. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Readmore. In most states, youll be required to fill out a name change petition, and get it notarized by the court or at your bank. If youve worked professionally under your married name, it may also be wise to maintain your current name. Most divorces result in an address change which is why its important to keep your name updated with USPS. your local Social Security office to see if theyll accept your divorce decree as a legal name change document. Some companies may require additional documents as well to verify your credit history or employment status. Show a certified copy of your divorce decree or court order for a name change (available from your court clerk's office) Show proof of residency or U.S. citizenship. 1 attorney answer. Use only blue or black ink on the "Application for a Social Security Card.". While its tempting to avoid the hassle of visiting a government office and simply mail your application in, we recommend visiting the SSA office in person. "All of the information is useful and concise. The complete guide to legally changing your name. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We use cookies to enhance your experience while using our website. If youre going to receive Review your travel calendar! Permanent, temporary, lump-sum, rehabilitative, and reimbursement are all types of alimony that may apply to you during a divorce. She earned a Juris Docto Change your name online Changing your name after divorce may also be accomplished through online forms if your state requires a petition filed with the court. booked in your old name, wait until you return from your travel to update your passport. To put a utility bill in your name, call or visit the utility provider and request a bill transfer. In most states, there is a simple form that you will fill out to get a new license. Moving to a new home can be one of lifes great adventures if you plan ahead. will help you determine the correct passport form to submit. We also use content and scripts from third parties that may use tracking technologies. Answers to Your email address will not be published. If your valid passport was issued < 12 months ago youll use Form DS-5504. Once my divorce was finalized, I found method two most helpful. booked in your old name, wait until you return from your travel to update your passport. This form wizardwill help you determine the correct passport form to submit. If youre not a U.S. Citizen you can bring your valid foreign passport with a valid U.S. Visa and approved I-94 form, or a Certificate of Naturalization. Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. It's not impossible, but neither is it likely. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Our custom name change kits contain everything you need to change your name after divorce. To get the names and numbers of the utility companies when you rent, you can ask your landlord or leasing office. Please call us with the following information: The account details (account number, address, holders etc) The date from which any changes take effect An up-to-date meter reading Do Not Sell My Personal Information. At the same time, contact your current insurance agent to stop coverage at your previous home before the new renter or owner occupies it. provide a refund where the spouse refuses. This can lead to legal issues if that person moves out or if your lease requires you to change the bill over. Youll need to update your name with the SSA by filling out Form SS-5 and submitting it by mail or in person at your. Your email address will not be published. Keep in mind that any name change after marriage means you should also get your name changed on any and all official documents, including but not limited to, the following: Passport; Bank and other financial/investment accounts; Credit cards; Mortgages/deeds/leases; Insurance policies; Utility bills; Phone/cable bills; Student loans Lastly, its legal to have more than one electric bill in your name with providers, and the same goes for putting two names on one bill. Ask if you can update your name over the phone. If not, youll need to petition for a court-ordered name change. Your credit card companies will issue you a new card with your current name. During busy periods, a utility company may not get to all orders promptly, or a customer may forget to include vital information. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. A self-address stamped envelope. ), and all your personal accounts (banks, credit cards, frequent flyer programs, hotel loyalty, investment accounts, nursing license, etc.). Before you head to the DMV, check out your state DMVs website to see if you can set up an appointment. This article was co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD. The combination of your new social security card and your license serves as proof of your legal name change. A divorce decree is limited in scope and varies by state, but they typically allow you to change your name back to your maiden or previous last name. Youll need to bring your Global Entry card, passport (in your new name), and your divorce decree or court order. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. common questions, filing instructions, and customer care provided during the process of The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. If you're taking over billing responsibilities for a house or apartment, you'll need to put the home's utilities in your name. 4 Make a deposit payment if required. Following are the steps to get a new Social Security card: Fill out an application for a new card. Please call us with the following information: The account details (account number, address, holders etc) The date from which any changes take effect An up-to-date meter reading ), Loyalty programs (airlines, hotels, retail stores, etc.). Following are the steps to get a new Social Security card: Fill out an application for a new card. How to change the name on your Social Security card. 2min read. You can update your name online (in most states) by visiting, Most divorces result in an address change which is why its important to keep your name updated with USPS. The petition will likely ask for your general information, your current last name, and the name that you would like to change it to. To be sure you turn service on or off precisely when you want, give the utilities at least three weeks of advance notice. Cyber security This will make sure all your payroll information and employer-sponsored benefits (401k, health/dental/vision/disability/life insurance, etc.) You can find the form online by searching the phrase name change in California.. we'll process your refund. Expenses such as: Are you dreading changing your name again and want to make it as painless as possible? See banking services provided by Axos Bank , See banking services provided by Axos Bank. If not, youll need to petition for a court-ordered name change. Show a certified copy of your divorce decree or court order for a name change (available from your court clerk's office) Show proof of residency or U.S. citizenship. purchase the electronic filing of your documents, complete the documents, and we pay to file Your divorce decree serves as your legal name change document. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ac\/Change-Your-Name-Step-8-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Change-Your-Name-Step-8-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ac\/Change-Your-Name-Step-8-Version-3.jpg\/aid1474712-v4-728px-Change-Your-Name-Step-8-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"