U.S. Name Change

1. Prepare Documentation

• Birth Certificate: Obtain a certified copy of your birth certificate.

• Identification: Have a government-issued ID (e.g., driver's license, passport).

• Proof of Residency: Provide proof of current residence (e.g., utility bill, lease).

2. Research State-Specific Requirements

• State Laws: Research the name change laws and requirements for your state.

• Forms: Obtain the appropriate name change forms from your local court or state website.

3. Complete Required Forms

• Petition for Name Change: Fill out the petition form requesting the name change.

• Order to Show Cause: Complete the order form which notifies others of your name change.

• Decree of Name Change: Prepare the final order that the judge will sign.

4. File Your Forms with the Court

• Filing Fee: Pay the required filing fee (varies by state).

• Submit Forms: Submit the completed forms to the appropriate court (usually a county court).

5. Notify the Public (if required)

• Publication Requirement: Publish notice of your name change in a local newspaper (required in some states).

• Affidavit of Publication: Obtain proof of publication and file it with the court.

6. Attend the Court Hearing

• Court Date: Attend the scheduled court hearing.

• Documents: Bring all required documents, including proof of publication if applicable.

• Answer Questions: Be prepared to answer any questions the judge may have.

7. Obtain Certified Copies of the Court Order

• Certified Copies: Obtain several certified copies of the court order changing your name.

8. Update Your Legal Documents and Records

• Social Security Card: Notify the Social Security Administration and update your card.

• Driver’s License/ID: Update your driver’s license or state ID with the Department of Motor Vehicles.

• Passport: Apply for a new passport or update your current one.

• Tax Returns: Every name on your tax return must match Social Security Administration records. The IRS says it is critical to update names with the SSA before filing your tax return.

• Naturalization certificate and certificate of citizenship: Complete a USCIS application online or by mail to update the name on your naturalization or citizenship certificate.

• Veterans Benefits: If you receive veterans health care or benefits, notify the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

• State Benefits Programs: Contact your state's social services office if you receive SNAP (food stamps), TANF (welfare), or other public assistance.

• State and Property Taxes: Notify your state taxing authority if you own a home, notify the city or county property tax office.

• Post Office: Update your name with the post office.

• Utilities and Bills: Change your name on utility accounts, credit cards, and other bills.

• Voter Registration: Update your voter registration.

• Mortgage holder or landlord: Notify your mortgage holding institution or your landlord.

• Bank Accounts: Change your name on all bank accounts and financial institutions.

• Insurance Policies: Update your name with insurance companies (health, auto, home).

• Employer Records: Notify your employer and update your payroll and HR records.

• Your will/ powers of attorney/ other estate planning documents: Notify your lawyer.

9. Notify Other Relevant Parties

• Schools and Universities: Notify any educational institutions.

• Professional Licenses: Update your name on any professional licenses.

• Medical Records: Inform your healthcare providers and update medical records.

• Memberships and Subscriptions: Update your name on memberships and subscriptions.

Additional Tips

• Keep Records: Keep copies of all documents and forms for your records.

• Timeline: The entire process can take several weeks to months, depending on state requirements and court schedules.