Is It Possible to Change My Last Name After Marriage Online?

A lot of private institution and government services are now offered online. This option is preferred because of its convenience. The biggest question is whether Married Name Change process can be completed online. It is impossible to give a straight answer to this question. The truth is that there are some steps that can be done online while others require physical presence. Beyond online, you should consider the option of remotely completing the process. Here is a view of the process you can complete remotely or online and those where your physical presence is required.

Requirements for Online Name Change

Whether you change your name one-on-one or online, there are requirements that must be fulfilled. These requirements concern the name you choose, reasons for changing the name and documents you will be required to present. While marriage is considered the easiest path towards changing your name, there are different scenarios available to persons who wish to change their names after marriage.

• Retain your old name- it is not automatic that you change your name because you have gotten married. There are people who opt to retain their old names without adding that of their spouse. This is helpful for professionals who are already established and use their names as brands. You would need time and resources to convince people that you changed the name of a product because you got married. Other than lose clients, you opt to stick with the old name.
• Add the name of your spouse- this is a common option. If you are operating with two names, you can add a third to your spouse. You can even make the name as the second one. It is easier for friends to begin referring to you by the name of your spouse, whether you have changed the name officially or not.
• Develop a new name- there are couples who would like to take a totally new identity after marriage. Both the husband and wife drop their sir-names and take up new ones. This requires a lengthy process but it is a symbolic way to acquire a new identity after marriage.

Married Name Change is easy depending on the option you take. If the change is meant to allow you to adopt the name on the marriage certificate, you will have an easy time. You only present the marriage certificate with the new name to the Social Security Administration and your request will be approved within days. What are the online or remote options of changing your name after marriage?

Using phone calls- there are processes of a name change that you can complete using a simple phone call from the comfort of your home. You can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate through the phone. You just need to call the office where your marriage was registered. You have to make payments for producing and mailing the certified copy of your certificate. You may be required to appear in person in some states when you need a new social security card and Driver’s License. This explains why there are queues at these offices. However, other entities like banks, credit card providers, alumni organizations, landlord, neighborhood organizations and mortgage provider, among others, do not require your physical presence. This means that you can make a call and changes to your personal details will be made. However, you should confirm with each organization on the prescribed process of changing names.

Using Name Change Agents- changing your name will require commitment and time. After marriage, you could be too busy with your honeymoon or parking into the new home. You do not want to waste time moving from office to office and collecting numerous documents. Use name change agents who will take up the task on your behalf. You will have to provide them with all the documents required. This includes certified copies of the marriage certificate. They have to go through the process of obtaining a new social security card and Driver’s License. In case your state requires you to publish your intentions on newspapers, it will have to be done. The agent only takes up the work but is not exempt from following the procedure laid down.

Married Name Change is cheaper when it is done on phone or remotely. Complete the processes that are possible via phone calls. Those that require physical delivery of documents and the assistance of an agent should be handled by these professionals. This saves you time and allows you to complete the processes of name change hustle free.

How to Legally Change Your Name in California

Weddings come with a desire for most couples to change their lives. You want to be referred by a new sir name to mark the change in status. You do not want people referring you by one name yet your official records and documents give a different one. To avoid this confusion, Legal Name Change should be your next step. The fact that it is referred to as ‘legal’ may sound intimidating. Do not panic. California has made the process of change easy and convenient.

You only need to present a few documents to particular offices and your name will be flipped. It even gets easier when you have an experienced and professional name change agent to handle your change process. This will save you time and resources. By the time you are settling in your new home or status, all your official documents will bear your new name. It helps to know the process to enable you make a better decision on who to handle the process on your behalf and how to go about it.

Provide Your Marriage Certificate

The marriage certificate is the new key to opening the doors of name change in your life. The certificate is used in almost all states in the process of name change. It makes the process of name change easier because you have a genuine reason. The authorities do not have a reason to decline your application.

The marriage must be officiated and solemnized by an authorized person. This could be a church minister or civil registry official. At the civil registry, you apply for the marriage license by appearing in person at the office of the clerk. The two of you must show your ID documents. The clear will require you to fill in sworn statement and application for Legal Name Change.

Requirements for name change will vary slightly from one county to the other. A birth certificate may be required for some counties while others will use your ID document. You need to confirm the requirements for legal change of name from the office of your clerk. Counties also differ in terms of charges for acquisition of the license. Since you do not present the original marriage certificate, you will require a certified copy. You have to request this certified copy from the office concerned.

Name Change at Social Security Office

The state of California is generous on the names you can change into. You could pick the name of your spouse, create a new name from your two names or choose a different name. You will need to register the new name at the Social Security Administration office. Most government offices and private firms use data provided by the social security administration office. It means that any inconsistency between the name you provide and what is at the SSA office will be a cause for alarm. The social security administration office will facilitate a new card at zero cost.
SSA allows you to make the application online. The application is for a new SSA card bearing your new names. This will allow all other organizations and authorities to effect the change. You must provide details in your previous card and those that are to appear on the new card. The order of appearance is important because some of the names will be regarded as ‘first’ ‘middle’ and ‘sir’ names. There are no charges for acquiring a new social security card in California.

Social Security Administration requires you to attach the copy of the certified marriage certificate. For identification purposes, your driver’s license will be required. Other identification documents may be required where the driver’s license does not work.

The process of Legal Name Change gets easier when you realize that you can complete it by mailing the form to the Social Security Administration office. This allows you to make the application from any location. You may also drop the form in person to the local office.

The fact that they require original documents will complicate your life for a while. In case you are using the driving license, you will have to move around for two to three weeks without the license. This is the time it will take for the office to receive your mailed application, process name change and mail them back. Though many people choose to avoid government offices, it could be the most convenient way to complete your process of name change. Locate the nearest office and have your name change process completed. While you get a new social security card, your old number remains. This means that your records in all places that use the SSA card will be carried over.

The change of name at Social Security Administration allows you to proceed with changes in other organizations. It raises suspicion when different names show documents. There are sensitive organizations like financial institutions that will not serve you because of the discrepancies. This is why you should proceed with changes on all other documents and organizations.

Name Change at Department of Motor Vehicle

California Department of Motor Vehicle name change process is what should follow once you have obtained a new social security card. The DMV in California requires you to make an actual visit. This could be hectic since you have no idea when you will be served. However, you can book an appointment to reduce your waiting time and be certain of the time you will be served.

You are required to fill the DL44 form for an ordinary driver while drivers of commercial vehicles fill the DL44C form. The form is then submitted to the department for processing. Since the form is not provided online, you need to pick one from the nearest office or make a call to have your form mailed. You will have to pay for the mailing charges. Each for comes with a unique barcode that is scanned at the DMV.

The DMV requires you to present the certified copy of your marriage certificate. This explains why you were required to get several copies. You will be required to provide your thumb print and also have a photo taken. Many people take this as the chance to update their photos and present more decent ones. Legal Name Change at the DMV will not be processed unless the process is complete at the SSA. The DMV verifies the information you have provided with what is captured at the SSA database. This means that discrepancies will be flagged and the process halted. Your name, date of birth and social security number must be consistent.

When your application is accepted, you are issued with an interim license. The license will be used until your new Driver’s license has been processed. The new card will be mailed to you. It takes up to 60 days to have your card processed and delivered to you. This means that the interim card will be valid for only 60 days. You can always check the status of your application by calling the concerned office. A call will also help resolve any issue that may arise with your application.

Name Change on Your Passport in California

The consistency of names used on your passport and other documents is essential especially in this age of sensitive identity scrutiny. The process of changing your passport name is similar to that which applies to other states. You are required to apply for a new passport.

Making the application in person will see processing on your passport expedited. The application is made at the Department of State Passport Agency. This can be done in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. You will be required to present your old passport, original marriage certificate, and a colored passport photo. The passport renewal application form must also be fully and appropriately filled.

Passport renewal by mail in California is also allowed. Passports that are less than a year old are processed free of charge. Each case is treated differently. However, if there is no reason to delay your application, it should be processed in the shortest time possible.

The process you use for Legal Name Change and the reasons you provide notwithstanding, you have to update the name on different platforms and institutions. This includes banks, credit card providers, insurance, vehicle registries and such other institutions. With the Social Security card and Driver’s license, you can check the institutions that require name change one by one. With an agent to help you with the name change, the process will be easier, faster and stress-free. It will also cost you less and feel smooth regardless of your circumstances. 

How Easy Is It To Legally Change Your Name In New York?

After the wedding, everything starts settling and the hectic days of planning become a distant memory. As you start getting comfortable into your new life, you will immediately discover you never gave much thought to a legal name change after marriage. It happens to most couples in New York and in many cases, panic sets in due to lack of information. If you ask around, you will get conflicting idea son the process, and this makes things worse. Coming just after a tiring wedding season, a name change can overwhelm even the most steadfast couples.

The first question that comes to mind is; is it easy? Well, changing your name after marriage is not easy and you have to appreciate this fact. Luckily, there is a new approach that revolutionizes name change after marriage. Read on to find out how to change your name and get a crucial tip to avoid all the hassle that comes with the process.

1. Use Your New Name in Your Marriage Certificate

The first step in changing your name legally after marriage is having the new name reflected on your marriage certificate. When you apply for a marriage license, you should use the desired name because this is what the county office later uses for your marriage certificate. Pay for certified copies of the marriage certificate as they are a requirement at every step of the name change process.

2. Apply For A Social Security Card (SSD)

In New York, you need to apply for a new security card after a legal name change by visiting the state website and downloading Form SS-5. Once you fill the required information, send the form together with a copy of your marriage certificate, old SSD, proof of identity (such as driver’s license, non-driver's ID card, or US passport) and proof of citizenship (use a birth certificate, Certificate of Citizenship, US Consular Report of Birth, or Certificate of Naturalization). The process is free in New York and takes about ten days.

3. Apply For a Driver’s License Name Change

Your driver’s license is a vital identification document, and once you change your name, this has to reflect on the DL too. Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office for a new DL and while at it, apply for a change of name in your vehicle title and registration and voter registration card.

You will need a certified copy of your marriage certificate, old DL, US passport or passport card and your new Social Security Card. Fill out (Form MV-44) and (Form MV-82) for Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card and the Vehicle Registration/Title Application respectively.

4. Apply For a Passport Name Change

Make sure you change your name on your travel documents to avoid inconvenience in future. However, if you plan to go for honeymoon out of the country, this process can wait till after you come back. To complete the name change download fill out Form DS-5504 if your passport is less than one year old or Form DS-82 if your passport is older than one year. These forms are on the state government website. You need your recent passport, a certified copy of your marriage certificate and any other required identification documents. Send the completed form and required documents to the National Passport Processing Center.

5. Make Sure Everyone Else Knows

You have been using your name for years both formally and informally and you need to notify everyone about the changes. This includes institutions such as your bank, the post office, your employer, Credit Card Company, Mortgage Company, your attorney, doctor’s offices, magazine and newspaper subscription services, utility service companies, schools and everyone else. When sending notifications, make sure you attach a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

How to Simplify Name Change after Marriage

Looking at this name change process for New York couples, you can understand why most dread going through with it. You need a lot of information, make numerous visits to government offices, fill out forms, and in case of a mistake, you have start all over again. To avoid all this hassle, you can approach an online legal name change service.

These companies avail all documents you need to fill on one platform and guide you through the process. You will get a custom name change package depending on your needs. For instance, once you provide all the information required, they fill out all the forms and all you need to do is append your signature and send the complete forms. It saves you time and you avoid the stress of hopping from one office to the other.

Changing your name after marriage in New York used to be a daunting affair but with an online name change service, it is a walk in the park.

How to Legally Change Your Name in New York

It is exciting to be married. You want to live together forever, create a new identity and also build up new and beautiful memories. This can only happen when you share an identity. The best way to do this is through legal name change.

Having wedded the other day, you have a lot on your mind. You need to settle down and learn the corners of your new town. You have new friends to know and neighbors to learn about. Everywhere, you are required to introduce yourself appropriately. Changing the name becomes inevitable. However, the process is not as easy as picking a nickname and beginning to use it immediately. There is a legal process involved and that must be completed by everyone who wants to change a name in New York.

Documents Required to Change Your Name Legally

The main document to successfully change your name in New York is your marriage certificate. It provides proof for name change to eliminate suspicion and make name change easy. The certificate is obtained as a certified copy or the original from the officer who officiated your marriage. It will be provided to you physically when you visit the office or be mailed on request as long as you pay the mailing fees. With the copy of your marriage certificate, you can proceed to change your name to what you desire with little hitches.

• Social Security Office

This is the first stop whenever you want your name changed legally after marriage. The social security card acts as your official identifier in New York. The Social Security Administration will update your name on official records and in the process issue you with a new card. The number of your card and the data entered in the system under your name will remain as they were. This means that you will be entitled to all benefits that were enjoyed under the previous name.

The new card will enable you to visit other departments and offices for name change. You cannot change your name online and have it reflect at the Social Security Administration office. You are required to visit the office in person to have your name changed. Alternatively, you engage an agent who visits the offices and files the papers. This is easier because you are not forced to queue for hours or travel to the office while you abandon your duties. There are SSA offices in neighborhoods, making it easier to change your name.

The documents you will be required to present at the Social Security Administration office include

• Marriage certificate – it must bear the name you want to change to.

• Proof of identity- you can use your old documents to proof your identity at the SSA office. This includes the old social security card, driving license, passport and even school ID. There are situations where employer ID, military ID card and even insurance cards are accepted. However, you must proof that the official documents are not easy to access.

• You must proof that you are a US citizen. This could be through a birth certificate, certificates of naturalization and citizenship or even a Consular Report of Birth.

Change of name through the legal process is free in New York State. You must submit original documents or certified copies for your application to be accepted. Some offices may charge a small fee to have the documents certified. The fact that you have made your application does not mean that it is successful. You will have to wait for approvals from the office, which will be mailed to you or you will be notified to collect the approval within a few days.

The process of name change does not end at the Social Security Administration office. All other documents should be changed to reflect the new changes in status. Here are places you need to visit to ensure that your name and personal details are updated.

• Department of Motor Vehicle- visit the DMV with your old license to have them update and issue you with a new one bearing the new name. Carry old identity documents and the new social security card bearing the new name. This is also an opportunity to change the details of vehicles you may own as well as voter roll details.

• Bank and other financial institutions- visit the bank to have your name changed to avoid inconsistencies. Other financial institutions like Saccos, mortgage companies and credit card companies should be informed.

Does the process of legal name change appear hectic to you? Hire a professional agent to complete the process of your behalf. The charges are reasonable but will save you a lot of trouble moving from one office to the other and filling papers you do not understand.

A Summary of Legal Name Change Process

There are many reasons one would like to go through the process of legal name change. The law has allowed any citizen to file a petition to have his or her name change at any point in life. Name change allows you to acquire a new identity that suits your new situation. Though everyone has a right to change his or her name, there are reasons or situations where your request will be declined.

• The request will be declined if the judge or officer realizes that you are intending to commit a crime.
• Legal name change will also be denied if the intention is to escape liabilities of a criminal or civil nature. This means that people with debts are likely to be denied the opportunity to change name.
• Your request for legally change your name will be declined if the intention is to mislead, especially members of the public. This happens when you adapt the name of a celebrity or popular person. There must be a justification for choosing the name.
• Numerals and punctuation are not admitted in legal name change. You will therefore not be allowed to use a letter, for instance, 9 as your name. However, there are jurisdictions where you are allowed to spell out the letter and thus your name becomes ‘Nine’.
• Racial slurs are not allowed when changing a name. They would be offensive to a race especially when pronounced in public.
• The officer will decline your request to change name if you go for an offensive name, intimidating or obscene name during your legal name change documentation. The idea is to protect people and prevent anxiety when a name is called out in public or included as part of public discourse.

Why Change Your Name?

Each person has a reason for changing his name. As long as the reason is not among those mentioned, your application will not attract any delays. You are allowed to go through the process of
name change after divorce. This allows you to get a new identity or return to your previous names by dropping that of your spouse.

Marriage is the other reason the law allows you to undertake the legal name change process. During this process you may take the name of your spouse, create a new name by bridging your names, hyphenate your names or add that of your spouse as a sir name. There are couples who choose to take new names in order to acquire a new identity away from that of the husband or wife. You must undertake legal name change even in situations where you wish to retain your professional or public name for the sake of identity or business yet change your name on official documents.

There are instances when legal name change is done in secrecy to conceal the identity of a person. This is in such cases as rape or where a spouse may be violent. Persons on witness protection may also undertake legal name change in secrecy. As such, they are not required to publish their names on circulating newspapers.

It is best to consult a specialist in legal name change in order to discuss your options. These specialists are agents who have assisted numerous people with name change for years and thus understand the process. You will get assistance on the documents to prepare in order to reduce the time it takes to complete your legal name change process. By supplying details of all institutions that need to adapt your new name, the agents will take up the hustle on your behalf. Within a few weeks, you will be operating under a new name and identity without the headache of lining up in offices and spending endless hours pushing your paper. The charges by legal name change agents are minimal compared to the benefits you get.

Requirements for Legal Name Change

Each state has different requirements for people who want to change their names. The documents and procedures to follow will also depend on the uniqueness of your situation. For instance, in case your reason for legal name change is marriage, you will be required to present your marriage certificate. In situations where divorce has caused you to seek change of name, the divorce decree will plead your case. In fact, you can request the judge to include a ruling on legal name change alongside that on divorce. Reverting to your original name is also easier since proof and documents already existed with your original name.

What You Require For Legal Name Change

A new status or the desire to acquire another name may push you to change it. It is possible to just adapt a name and begin to use it in business or social circles. However, this will present a challenge when you need official documents bearing the name. In other cases, people might consider you as an imposter if they know you by one name yet your documents reveal another. This makes it necessary to go through the process of legal name change.

The process differs depending on the state and sometimes the county. Each demands different documents, fees or procedure. It is therefore important to visit your local clerk or check online to get directions on what needs to be done before you embark on the process.

When you want to go through the process of legal name change, you will be required to present a reason or justification for undertaking the process. Some states just require you to fill a form and submit it for approval. In some cases, you have to appear in court in person for a hearing on the change. Other states require you to publish the old and new names on local media in case there is an objection. All these processes should be adhered to. Here are requirements if you want to change your name or that of your child.

• Court Papers- the papers request the court to change your name. These papers include a petition to have the name changed and the order in which the new names will appear. Some states require that the petition be filled and signed in front of a notary public. If the name change involves a child, the petition will need a higher justification threshold. To facilitate mailing of approval, you may be required to leave behind a business-sized and self addressed envelope.
• Proof of Identity- the court requires you to prove that the original name is yours. This could be a birth certificate or any other document that can show that you were referred by the name you wish to drop. The requirement for identity varies from one state to another.
• Court Fees- each name change process comes at a fee. The fees depend on the court you will be filling the petition, the state the court is based and the complexity of individual situation. For instance, it is more expensive to file for name change at the Supreme Court and High Court compared to filing at the civil court. There are name change petitions that may require filing at the Supreme Court while others are filed at civil courts and approved. Consult professionals in name change to know the best options for your case.
• Request for Judicial Intervention- the request is only required at the Supreme Court. As the name suggests, it happens when lower avenues have proven futile. It is only by filing the request that a judge will be assigned to your case. You will pay no fee for judicial intervention.
• As indicate on several occasions, the number of papers filed and details required will depend on the uniqueness of your situation. To ease the process, consult a professional agent who will guide you on the procedure and requirements in your jurisdiction.

Where Do You Go For Name Change?

The petition for name change is presented at the county court where live or the Supreme Court for judicial intervention. In some cases, you will be sent to Social Security Administration before heading to the other institutions and department like motor vehicle and health insurance. The destination will always depend on the uniqueness of your case.

You need to present a petition for name change whether you appear in front of a court or at the Social Security Administration office. The following information must be captured in the petition.

Justification for changing the name. The justification will be vetted and determine whether your petition will go through or not. If you are changing the name to conceal your identity because of debts or criminal liability, the petition will be declined. A name that is obscene or a racial slur will also be declined.
Legal information on conviction and judgment must be provided. Indicate the time you served and include documents to show incarceration or disposition.
Details of child or spousal support. You should provide proof that you have consistently met your obligation. This might be a ground for your petition being dismissed.
Where the petition is on changing the name of a child, the approval or details of the other parent must be presented to the court.

The fees for legal name change depend on the documents that need to be filed and where you are filing them. Engaging a professional agent dealing with name change will cost you more but the process is faster. Consult an experienced professional to know the uniqueness of your case and the easiest way to approach name change.

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Legal Name Change and Its Different Occasions

If you are planning for a legal name change, it is worth noting that there can be several different ways to do it depending on your particular reason or occasion. While most of us know name change is a tedious procedure, it won’t need your lifetime. If you know the correct procedure and steps to follow, you will surely complete it in minimal possible time and in hassle-free manner.

Regardless of the fact that you are going to hire name change service or do whole procedure yourself, it is a good idea to have basic understanding of name change rules and processes. Events like marriage, divorce and spouse death are three most common occasions or reasons of legal name change. Let’s discuss different name change occasions one by one.

Changing last name after marriage through marriage certificate

Most brides follow the marriage convention and change their last name after marriage to accept their spouse’s surname as theirs. It is one of the most common legal name change occasions our society sees. If you are going to walk the aisle very soon, the good news is that name change procedure is slightly easier for you.

All you need is just your marriage certificate, which you can then use a valid proof of your official name change event to update your new married name at various government and non-government institutions including social security office, motor vehicle department, passport office, banks, insurance companies, postal office, employee payroll, etc.

You may not need a court order in most states. Just get some certified copies of your marriage license from the place where you had applied for marriage certificate. Remember photocopies of your marriage license will not be considered as a valid proof at most places. It is important to get 4-6 certified and sealed copies of your marriage license.

Going back to maiden name after divorce

It is entirely your decision whether you want to continue using your married name or resume your maiden name after divorce. While exact procedure for legal name change after divorce may vary in each state, it is easier to request the court, where you have filed the divorce case, to approve your maiden name restoration petition.

Once your name change petition and divorce is granted by the court, you need to collect the certified copy of the court order. You can use the court order as a valid proof of maiden name restoration for other important documents like bank accounts, social security card, driver’s license, passport and subscription.

If you somehow couldn’t added name change request during your divorce procedure, you can find out if there is any scope of requesting some addition in the court order which states you are legally allowed to use maiden name after divorce. Or you can always file for name change after any number of years of divorce.

Returning to previous name after death of spouse

Sometimes a woman prefers to return to her birth name after death of her spouse.  Here the process isn’t as straightforward as changing name after divorce. But the woman is entitled to take her decision and have all the right to go back to her maiden name. You will need to get court order or follow whatever name change laws your state has.

In some states, name change applicants need to issue a public notice and they may also need to take a date for hearing. Once your name change order is approved by the jurisdiction, get a few certified copy of it which can be presented to government and non-government agencies for name change request.

If you aren’t aware of the correct procedure and seek guidance, you can always consider hiring a professional name change agency online. They are name change experts and they know the legal name change laws for every state in the country. They can make your legal name change procedure easier and faster.

Changing first name

As similar to last name change, you will need a court order for changing first name legally. Once you receive court permission, you will be able to change first name in your birth certificate and other important documents. The name change process may involve police verification;
however you may need to enquire about your state’s laws for changing first name.

Taking a whole new last name

Every citizen of the country has legal right to change their first name, middle name or even last name, unless there is intention of getting away with criminal or offensive history. The court may demand your personal documents including your identity proof and residential proof. Once your name change request is permitted by the court, you can go ahead updating your entirely new last name in all important documents.

These are just a few of the occasions when legal name change is common occurrence. But there are a plenty of reasons why a person consider changing name legally. Got a reason to change name? Hire a professional name change service online!

The Name Change Checklist and Techniques

While events like marriage and divorce are the most common reasons why people find the need to change name and prepare a custom name change checklist, but these aren’t the only reasons. People have been reportedly changing their name for honor, career prospects, religious reasons, gender transformation, simplicity of pronunciation, etc.

In short, you can change your name for any reason unless it is has something to do with a fraudulent activity like getting rid of criminal past or cheating money lenders. Both minors and adults have authority to change their name legally, irrespective of their gender. 

The legal process

Let’s check out the three most common techniques to change your name before you start acting on your name change checklist.

• Court order: In most states, a person willing to change egally first needs to get a court order for the same. Once received legal permission from court, the person can start updating in all documents enlisted in their checklist. Remember, rules vary from one state to another. So, do your homework and learn your state’s laws.

• Marriage Certificate: In many states, a marriage certificate is considered as a legal proof of. New brides have to collect their marriage certificate from the local court and get a dozen of its certified copies to begin with process at social security office, banks and other places. Changing name after marriage is much simpler and faster process compared to other cases.

• Self-claimed usage: There are some states where people can start using a new name on own and over time it will be considered their as new legal name. 

Depending on your particular case, legal process can take a few days, months or longer. Every state has its own set of guidelines that the  applicant needs to follow and thus timeline can vary dramatically. To file you need to have a proof about your residency in the particular state you want to apply.

For example, if you want to apply in a New York court, it is imperative that you are a permanent resident of New York State and you have authenticated proof for the same.  If you have shifted in New York about a month ago, you may need to wait for at least 6 month to a year sometime, depending on your state rules, to be eligible for applying.

In some complicated cases such as a minor whose one parent is against this decision, there can be a hearing in the court where both parents have to be present. The judge will listen to both parents and rule out their decision keeping the child’s interest in mind. Not all cases are straightforward and thus procedure time may also vary accordingly.

A Checklist

Once you have changed legally, you will need to update a number or government and private organizations. Below is a checklist of some of the most important documents or accounts you will need to update your new name in. 

Social security card

Employer

Driver’s license & Vehicle registration

Passport

Voter Registration

Bank accounts, Loan accounts & credit cards

Insurance policies (Auto, Home and Health)

Post office

Utility Bills

Memberships, Subscriptions and Clubs

Tax account

Doctors

Professional or business association

Emails, business cards, online accounts

You will need to prepare a custom checklist covering all organizations and documents where it is important to update your new legal name in the records. You may need to visit some places in person and fill out the required forms. Keep the required documents handy and organized throughout this process to save your time and money. 

If you find this scary and need expert advice to guide you throughout your procedure or you want some more assistance that can save a huge amount of time in this process, hire an agency. Such agencies offer various name change packages to fit every applicant’s needs. This will save you a great deal of time and efforts. And the great news is, these packages are really affordable.

So, are you ready with your name change checklist? 

Legal Name Change and Professional Life – Do It Right

It may be difficult to determine whether it is a boon or curse, but it’s a fact that it is really difficult to delete your professional or personal past in this era of internet. Your social media profiles and work profiles on sites like LinkedIn will reveal it all about your life so far. However, when you decide for legal name change, probably because of your recent marriage or divorce event, a serious problem awaits you at the very next corner.

Are you wondering what problem I am referring to? Well, it’s a problem of lost identity and being ghost. All your previous work, achievements, certifications, etc. are credited on your earlier name. And now that you have planned to change legally, you will need to build your identity again with the new name.

Why change?
Some studies reveal that women who have long history of professional career or significant career achievements are less likely to prefer after marriage. But a large number of women prefer to legally change their last name when they get married. When about 77% of new brides taken their spouse’s last name after marriage in the year 1990, about 86% women preferred legal name change after marriage in the year 2011.

Source: https://hitchswitch.wordpress.com/2016/12/19/legal-name-change-and-professional-life-do-it-right/

Adopt The Right Procedures in Order to Legally Change Your Name

At times, due to certain situations, you want to start fresh in 
life and legally change your name. As soon as this thought 
crosses your mind and you want to pursue it, you need to look at the legal implications and procedures which you need to adopt.

Changing your name is undoubtedly easy if you know the exact process as there are numerous legal measures, which you need to pursue. Along with different reasons that may necessitate you to change name, if you are divorced and want to start fresh in life, you can adopt your new name too.

Generally, you are required to submit a legal application in the court for changing your name legally. Your attorney can file the application to legally change your name. It may cost a lot of money to change your name if you don't know the process and lead to you needing to decide whether the process is worth bothering with. However, you need to think logically and plan properly before you submit the application to legally change your name and go to the concerned authorities.

Source: http://hitchswitch.livejournal.com/3244.htmlhttp://hitchswitch.livejournal.com/3244.html

The Who, Why and How of Legal Name Change

Who all can change their name legally

All the people apply for legal name change can be primarily divided into three categories, or rather groups I would say: Adults, Child (Minor) and Family. Adults, both men and women, can apply for name change. The name change application for children can be filed by parents or guardians. If all members in one family want to change their last name legally, they can file a name change petition as a one unit and once approved, all family members will be able to use the new last name for all of their legal documents.

Why do name change

Different people have different sort of reasons for name change. But here we will take a look at some of the most common reasons why people across America opt for legal name change. Just continue reading.

Source: https://hitchswitch.wordpress.com/2016/11/23/the-who-why-and-how-of-legal-name-change/

Getting a Legal Name Change after Divorce

Getting a divorce can be mentally and emotionally draining. However, it is important to keep calm, and go through with the necessary legal proceedings as soon as possible. One such legal aspect that stumps most people is the seemingly convoluted processes involved in changing one’s name. With more and more women opting to use their maiden names after a divorce, the courts have simplified this process, and in most cases, this clause is included in the divorce decree, upon request.

It is necessary to update all the legal documents to reflect the changed marital status and the new name after the divorce, especially if a woman is adopting her maiden name after the separation. This will also be the first step towards a new life, and symbolizes an acceptance of divorce. So, remember that it is never too late to get a legal name change after the divorce, no matter how long it has been since your divorce.

Source: http://articles.abilogic.com/183766/getting-legal-name-change-after.html

A Name Change Checklist You Need to Consider Post Wedding

If you are recently married or divorced, updating your new name on Facebook and other social media sites won’t be enough. There is a huge list of other places where you need to legally change your name. Making a name change checklist of all those places will help you finish the entire name change process in much organized and precise manner.

You can always take a look at the checklist and ensure you aren’t missing out any authority or place where you need to update your last name. In short, a basic checklist will help you keep trace on whom you have notified and whom you haven’t notified about your new name yet.

To help you get started with the legal name change process, here we have shared a complete name change checklist to follow. 

Source: https://hitchswitch.wordpress.com/2016/10/13/a-name-change-checklist-you-need-to-consider-post-wedding/

A Comprehensive Name Change Checklist for New Couples: Take the Hassles Out

Changing name informally is no big deal. You can just opt for any other name, anytime and anywhere. But changing name legally is a whole different thing. When you want to have a new name appear on your social security number and other important documents, you need to undergo a legal name change process. In this post, we have revealed a complete name change checklist shared by the experts. You can use it as your go-to source during legal name change process.

Marriage and divorce are two most common reasons why people, mainly women, need legally change their last name. For newlyweds, it is vital to have a common family name and ensure their children carry the family name in the future. In case of divorce, it is even more important to leave your ex’s last name and choose maiden name or if you are remarrying then choose your to-be spouse’s last name.

Name change after marriage


If you are soon going to marry someone special and would like to formally take his last name after marriage, the main and most important thing you will need is your marriage certificate. In this case, you will not need to file a court petition. However, if you are going to choose some other name change option like hyphenating your name with your partner’s, you will need to require a court order and thus will need to file petition. Take a quick look at the name change checklist below to get started with the process on right foot.

Source: https://hitchswitch.wordpress.com/2016/09/17/a-comprehensive-name-change-checklist-for-new-couples-take-the-hassles-out/

A Comprehensive Guide On Everything You Need To Do For Changing Name After Marriage

Perhaps you have tied knot recently. If it’s true, many congratulations! When done carefully in right steps, changing name after marriage isn’t a complex process. However, there are many stories of newlyweds who witness a lot of hassles and troubles on their way to changing their maiden name. And this is why here we have brought you a complete guide on formally changing name.

When you need to change your maiden name post wedding, you have got mainly two options.

The DIY Way

First alternative is doing it yourself. You will need to visit your local SSA (Social Security Administration) office as well as DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) to process for name changing legally. You will need to verify forms, pay fees and check the addresses. This can be time consuming and annoying at times.  

Hire a reliable name changing service

By hiring a name change service, you can save your time and efforts.  A professional name change service provider will save you from the need of collecting all forms on own, regardless of which state you live in. The name change specialists will also help you fill up all those forms, fees, etc. within a reasonable timeframe. Hire them for changing name after marriage and they will make you completely stress-free.

Yet, to those DIY enthusiasts who want to process legal name change on own, below is a step-by-step guide.

Source:http://hitchswitcusa.tumblr.com/post/150350434772/a-comprehensive-guide-on-everything-you-need-to-do

Important Guidelines to Draft Your Name Change Checklist

Changing their name is a common practice that all women perform after their marriage. However, there are certain steps to be followed for getting this procedure done. You need to have a list of things required for ensuring that this process works out perfectly.
Name change checklist involves a sequence of easy and inexpensive tasks, as it does not require any lawyer to forward the proceedings. In majority cases, it is seen that the woman takes up her husband’s last name; thus giving up her maiden last name. She can also choose to add her husband’s surname after her full name, this way she can use her husband’s last name without giving up her own. The couple may also decide to settle for an entirely different last name. As long as the intention behind your name change is not fraudulent, you can choose to change to anything you want.

Name change checklist can help you understand some mistakes people commonly make while taking up this procedure.

• Opt for changing the name soon after marriage i.e. even before going to your honeymoon. If you have your tickets booked already and you undertake the process of name change, your identification will not match which may cause issues. So to avoid unnecessary hassles while going for this special holiday, ensure that the name change process is completed as soon as possible.
• Ignoring to notify your employer firm about your new married name is a common problem. The company you are working with should know it well within time, as they will have to amend your payrolls, business cards, nameplates etc. Remember to not take chances at the professional front. Hence, getting things in place and informing authorities needs to be your priority.
• Sometimes people assume that they can adopt a new name by simply changing their documents and that there is no need for a legal procedure. This is a misconception though.
• Forgetting to notify necessary institutions and thereby not amending documents like driver’s license, passport, bank account statements, etc.
• Forgetting to obtain all the certified originals of your marriage certificate

Source: http://hitchswitcusa.tumblr.com/post/147441384907/important-guidelines-to-draft-your-name-change

No Need to Be Apprehensive About Legal Name Change

Change of name arises because of several reasons. In most of the cases, women wish to go through name change process after marriage, as they want their husband’s surname. Apart from that, some people wish to have new name just because they do not actually like their own name. At times, a divorced woman wants to have her maiden name. In the nutshell, plenty of reasons are there as why legal name change is required.

One thing, which is very common in all kinds of processes for legal name change is that they need certain formalities to be completed. Every state has different rules and regulations and that ought to be followed by all religiously. This scenario is common globally. For instance, if you are in United States, then you have to stand for the rules of the native state so as to get a new name.

It has been seen that people somehow let the process of legal name change subside and keep on delaying it due to some reasons. The primary reason behind this is lack of knowledge regarding the process. The other reason is that they get overwhelmed due to the thought of getting involved in tedious form filling procedures. However, it needs to be understood that if you keep on delaying this work, chances are that you may face issues later on. This is with regards to those women who are married. Moreover, with expert advice and help, things can be completed easily without hassles.

What is required for Legal Name Change?

If you wish to legally changing your name, then you need to download appropriate forms from online portals. You will see that there are diverse forms for different name change options. If you have been married lately and want to change the name, then it is necessary that you inform the Social Security Office and get hold of the social security card. Similarly, you require different forms for minor name change and for divorce cases.

Source: http://hitchswitch.livejournal.com/788.html

A Step By Step Guide To Use Internet For Married Name Change

After their wedding, women want to be happy and enjoy their life with their beloved to the fullest. This is the primary reason why most of them are likely to have new surname. Along with this primary reason, some other aspects too are responsible for people opting to change name post marriage. The moment all excitement of wedding ceremony dies, you may tend to face lot of problems if you delay in applying for a new marriage name change.

Various options available these days to change name post marriage

In order to avoid such problems you must take out time and change your name as soon as possible. You will get various places where you need to contact for name change. If you are aware about the exact process, then you can perform this activity yourself. However, the paper work involved will be tiresome even if you know how to go about doing things. This means that you have to search for reliable sources for getting this work done.

The technique of name change has actually become very simple. It is all because of internet and numerous companies, which specialize in this work. Earlier, people used to shell out huge amount of money from their pocket for name change process. No wonder, lot of legal complexities were incorporated in the method and anybody who wished for legal name change after marriage had to take an appointment beforehand.

Internet is the best place if you want peace of mind while changing name

The traditional method was extremely complicated and time-consuming and small errors demanded repetition of the entire process. However, the entire scenario has changed now. The new process permits you for a married name change by means of a convenient strategy that any individual can follow from the comfort zone of their home or office. He or she needs to be just aware about using the internet to follow the procedure.

The recent strategy of marriage name change is the online procedure. It is amazingly easy and facile. Thus, you just need to come across a good online destination, which is quite authentic and trustworthy. The moment you get a wonderful option online, you can happily apply for name change online. You need to download the form available online, fill it and mail it to the concerned company. The form needs basic information associated with the name change process of an individual.

Once all the required information is filled out, the company demands for other formalities to be filled. Once that is done, the concerned company fills other necessary forms and mails it to you for your approval and signature. Within few days, you get all the important legal documents, which authorize you to use to new married name. There are few companies, which follow a slightly different process for name change. You may opt for any as per your choice and preference, but just check its authenticity. It is sure that you will not be deceived by them at any cost.

This post was originally published on : https://hitchswitch.wordpress.com/2016/03/18/a-step-by-step-guide-to-use-internet-for-married-name-change/

What’s In A Name? Believe Us, A Lot !!!

“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.”

These famous lines by William Shakespeare have been used many a times; actually, so many times that they are now a cliché. But then, your name counts. Right. Apart from playing a crucial role in social settings (like, serving as a unique identification point for belonging to a particular class/ society/ ethnic group, etc.), legal name change processes, and official milieu (educational institutions, work environment, etc.), your name makes you different from the rest. Yes, names have been an integral part of human social setups and psyche for long, and will surely continue to be so.

Why is a Name Important?

Name is the first thing you say when you introduce yourself to someone. It is the first point of contact. It is how you identify yourself. It is how others bond with you. It is how your achievements, history, charity, and all other activities connect back to you. And that is why a name is so important for all social beings alike. All these features and more, make it important for those desirous of a legal name change to follow certain steps, as defined by their state jurisdiction and relevant authorities.

Carrying Forward a Legacy

It is probably because a name is so personal, and a possession that humans are so fond of, that they want to pass it on to their progenies. In almost all parts of the world, the practice of carrying the family name, along with one’s name, has occupied an important place in the society. While in some countries and groups, it is the name of the community that is taken as one’s surname, in others it is the family name, or that of one or both parents.

Who would want to Change their Names and Why?

Even if given a choice, there are not many in this world who would want to change their names. This may be because of personal, professional, or social reasons. Or maybe, because of the complications that are packaged with the processes of a legal name change. However, there are some people who want to change their names and get a different calling identity for themselves. There may be several reasons for this. For instance, there are numerous newly married ladies who desire to take on their spouse’s name because of traditions or personal reasons. Yes, in many parts of the world, it is usually the wife who takes on the husband’s surname while retaining her first name.

Why is a Name Change Important for Others?

Also, there are children who would like to change their surname from their father’s family name to that of their mother’s. Sometimes people change their names because they don’t like the name given to them at birth, or because it identifies them with a particular ethnic or religious group or community. And then, there are some who go through the many procedures of a legal name change to defraud. There may be other reasons like transgender name changes. Those in the transgender category may want to change their name to one that reflects their sexual orientation.

Letting the World Know

The process of changing one’s name has evolved over the years to include social, professional, and security perspectives. So, nowadays, it is not just about informing your near and dear ones through emails, phone, messages, or old fashioned letters that you would like to be called by the new name. In the contemporary scenario, where announcements on social media has become a norm, letting others know about your new identity, and probably explain or hint at why you chose to change your name, becomes an important part of the process too. Though many people take pride in announcing their name change after marriage, it can be fairly difficult to face the questions and reactions when changing your name back to your previous maiden name in certain cases, say after a divorce.

Name Change, Everywhere!

Here, the major time consuming aspect of a name change is with regards to ensuring that your new name reflects in all of your official documents. This includes your passport, social security card, driving license, bank documents, contracts, insurance papers, voter’s registration, legal documents like will and title deeds, citizenship card, health card, bills, tax records, vehicle permits and related documents, etc.

By going through the process of a legal name change, and with legal proof in place, all these documents can be updated with your changed name by applying to the individual departments, along with the certified legal proof. As official documents having contradictory names may lead to several problems, both criminal and civil, you need to ensure that the documents bear the new name only, so as to avoid any trouble in future.

The Parties that Need to Know

It is essential to inform all relevant parties of your new name change. You may need your marriage certificate, name change decree, or divorce decree for this purpose. Remember, as all financial, governmental, and business institutions have to be informed of your new name, you may require multiple copies of the requisite documents for this purpose. While some institutions may permit you to make all necessary changes over the phone, there are others that need prior written notices, applications and documentation. Some of these government agencies and private organizations would include:

• Agencies responsible for issuing legal documents like social security cards, passports, birth certificates, and photo IDs

• Schools and colleges

• Banks and financial institutions

• Places of work

• Creditors

• Attorneys

• Mortgage lenders

• Post office, and so forth.

It’s no Longer Cumbersome, go for it!

While changing your name sounds like a lot of work, technological advancements, digital / internet progression, and several customized services of agencies with expertise in the name change domain (from just technical advice to filling out customized forms), have made the process simple and faster, indeed. So if you are looking to change your name, there is nothing to stop you or slow you down !

This post was originally published on : https://hitchswitch.wordpress.com/2016/01/16/whats-in-a-name-believe-us-a-lot/

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Changing Your Name After Marriage

Changing your name after marriage is one of the primary things that will make your changed relationship feel more real and literal. Be it the wife taking her husband’s surname or the other way around, talk on name change is something that rarely escapes marriage discussions. From changing your social and civic identity, to gaining a new name in financial and official records, the process involves plentiful steps and requires a good amount of your time and attention.

Any mistakes in this process might incur financial and time-related costs for couples. To save upon time and effort at a later stage, both partners need to make sure that they don’t take up the process of name change in haste, or without indulging in proper research. Here are certain things that you may expect to come your way when you legally change your name.

Changing your Name in a Haste

More often than not, couples start the process of name change in haste. Among other things, this can have serious repercussions on their travel plans and financial dealings. For instance, since air tickets cost less when booked in advance, booking honeymoon tickets on feasible dates, right after marriage, is one of the first things that couples do as soon as their marriage plans are set in motion. But in most airlines, the name on the ticket cannot be modified once booked. This is also the case with most visa documents if the travel plan includes a visit to another country. But once couples apply for a name change in their respective passports, right after their marriage, their travel plans will obviously be affected. This is because the name printed on the tickets and passport will not match.

Also, while the information on one’s passport is undergoing a change, travelling with old passports will not be possible. To avoid this, waiting to change your name legally after your return from your honeymoon or any other immediate travel, is a wise call and saves upon time and trouble.

Easy Way of Notifying others about Name Change

Though you would probably inform your near and dear ones about your name change either personally or through social media, email, and letters, it is always good to use your new name in the wedding thank you notes. This simple method will help establish your new name firmly in the minds of your friends, family, and acquaintances.

Not Following the Right Order

Not following the right order in the name change process may cause huge losses pertaining to money, time, and efforts. Firstly, it is essential to have a proof of your name change such as a court order and/or your marriage license. The next step is to approach the Social Security Administration for an updated Social Security Card.

Approaching the DMV’s office without an updated Social Security Card will only be a waste of time as it is an essential proof document that is required for changing your driver’s license and other related records. Changing your name with your utility providers and getting the bills in your new name is also something that has to be done before approaching the DMV’s office.

Have Certified Copies of your Marriage License in Hand

The state provides you with a free certified copy of your marriage license at the time of your marriage registration. But it is wise to apply for more copies, at least three, at the same time. It not only saves time as you can apply for updating your name with several agencies simultaneously, but also leads to reduced costs in the long run. Do remember that the costs of gaining these certificates vary in different states; but when applied along with the free copy, the costs incurred for extra copies is lesser than applying for them separately at a later stage.

Having Assumptions about Hyphenated Name Changes

Some couples assume that if the surname of the spouse is taken as a hyphenated name with their existing name, an official name change is not required. This is not true and can lead to problems in future as all official and financial records need to be updated with the new name, even if the change is only a hyphenated addition.

Choosing Names that will be Rejected

Some name change applications may be rejected by the State. Among other reasons, choosing the name of a celebrity for impersonation, or a numeral (except Roman numerals), punctuation marks, symbols, etc. serves to be a non-no. Also, the state finding out that the applicant is trying to evade debts serves to be another common reason that may attract a rejection of the application for name change.

Gathering the Appropriate Materials

While the requirements of each state serving to be different from another, finding these requirements will necessitate your involvement with the state's government website or a short visit to the local courthouse. For instance, if you do not wish to hire the servicers of an agency and wish to go the DIY way, you may like to look for the requisite forms at the information desk of your local courthouse. You may take the help of the clerk of courts.

In case you  would rather go online for facilitating your search, all you need to do is look for the keywords "name change petition form in” <your state>. You search would probably bring up a long list of relevant websites from which you have to select the one that relates to that of your state's government portal. This search will also lead you to the various other documents that you will be requiring for moving forward. In most cases, the request for name changes are effectively handled by a family or probate court, but then, the regulations may vary from one state to the next. The following documents will be essential for the changing your name the legal way.

• Petition for name change
• Order showcasing the cause for name change
• Your Social Security Card
• Birth certificate and marriage license
• A photo ID

Giving a little time and attention to your name change process can save a lot of time and hassles for you. Going by the book will surely ensure a smooth name change approval in the later stages of this process.