A Summarized Name Change Checklist

Name change after marriage is an obviously tedious process. You have to notify government agencies, the financial institutions you associate with, insurance firms and other companies or organizations you are associated with. A Name Change Checklist will help you get the process completed in an easy and systematic manner. Remember that anyone who you would find it necessary to notify about change of address would also like to know about change of name.

You have an option of getting a name change kit or assistance from a professional agent. You may also opt to complete the complicated process on your own. This might appear like an easier option but you have to set aside time and resources to drive around and line up in offices with complex procedures. An agent completes the process on your behalf, allowing you to relax and concentrate on settling or building your marriage.

Here is a simplified Name Change Checklist to make the process easier and fast. There are offices where you can change the name over the phone. Other offices require you to appear in person. For some, the name and address are changed directly from the system. For others, you have to fill forms from where the officer in charge makes amendments on your personal details.

• Obtained a Certified Copy of Your Marriage Certificate

The law requires you to obtain a certified copy- not copies- of your marriage certificate. The copy is obtained from the office where you filed or got your marriage certificate. Since the certificate might not be returned to you, you should obtain several copies. The certificate can be mailed to you on request. You will be required to pay for the copies and mailing if that is your option. Getting more than one copy allows you to initiate a similar name change process with other institutions. This will speed up the entire process.

• Start With the Social Security Administration Office

This is regarded as the official government record. Other institutions and organizations within government and beyond obtain their data from here. This is the office where the names and details on your ID documents will be changed. Details on tax obligation files and retirement benefits accounts will also be changed here. If there is a discrepancy between the names you provide and that available on the Social security records, your returns will be declined. Financial institutions also depend on the Social Security card for their financial dealings. The office requires you to fill Form SS-5 in order to obtain a new card.

• Visit the Department of Motor Vehicle

Changing your name on the identification card and Driver’s license allows you to change names on other platforms like banks, insurance and other financial institutions. You should also take the advantage of changing names on vehicle ownership papers. The department will also facilitate name change on the voter’s register. Each state follows a different set of rules and procedures. To avoid unnecessary hustle, enlist the services of an experienced agency to spearhead your name change process. Updating your name on the Social security card and Driver’s license gives you the freedom to change on other platforms like bank institutions, insurance, medical records, etc.

• Financial Institutions and Banks

Banks and insurance or investment institutions require proof of identity before transacting. If the name on your ID differs with what is on their systems, they will be hesitant to serve you. This could cause delays and unnecessary suspicion. You could even be accused of identity theft. To avoid such complications, visit your bank, mortgage or lease company, investment account, Sacco, credit card provider, etc to have personal details changed. This gives you the freedom to access money and transact without suspicion.

• Social Organizations

The records in social organizations are not too sensitive. However, they may also be problematic if discrepancies appear. Change names on all legal documents, veterinary office, your doctor or health service clinic, clubs, alumni organizations, loyalty clubs, library, gym, etc. Most of these organizations would do with a simple phone call.

An experienced name change agency will provide a personalized Name Change Checklist based on the organizations or institutions you wish to notify about the change of name. Through their experience and networks, they simplify the process for you at a very reasonable fee. 

Name change after Divorce: The Steps and Requirements

A person who changed his or her name after marriage will also feel compelled to change it after divorce. The process of name change after divorce will vary depending on jurisdiction. However, most courts allow you to file the petition alongside that on divorce. When the divorce will be granted, your prayers on reverting to your original name will also be granted. It is acceptable that you end the ties that bound you together. It helps you clear the bond when the change is done officially.

Though individual states and jurisdictions follow different procedures, it is easier and straightforward when you request the court to grant your request alongside the divorce. This allows you to revert to your original name or choose a new one. When the divorce has been granted, you will also receive the green light to adapt a new name.

If the divorce is granted, your name change after divorce request will also have been granted. To restore your original name, you will need a certified copy of the court order and are ready to go. This is what you present to the office of Social Service Administration, banks, Department of Motor Vehicle and any other institution that may require you to show proof of name change.

There are instances where the divorce order does not contain the request on name change. It is possible to return to the clerk and have the order changed to reflect the request on name change. There are jurisdictions that allow this long after the case has been decided. The amendments on the divorce decree are used as evidence for name change and admissible as legal and formal documentation.

There are instances where your request is not part of the divorce decree. This means that you have to undertake a different process of restoring your name or choosing another name. Some states require you to just begin using your old name and send the same request to institutions where you would like the name changed. The challenge is if you need to use a completely new name. Recent immigrants and people who cannot find their original identity papers will find a problem reverting their names.

The process of petitioning the court to change your name takes several weeks and may go up to three months. You will have to file your petition and wait for a court hearing that could be weeks away depending on the calendar of the court. The documents you will be required to present include certified copies of the divorce decree and documents showing your original name. The certified copy of the divorce decree might not cost you anything but the administration fees will depend on jurisdiction.

Changing the Names of Children after Divorce
Many jurisdictions lean on the side of children continuing to use the name of the father after parents have divorced. This happens regardless of the parent who is granted custody of the child. However, the father must show and proof his desire to continually take care of these children. However, there are instances where the courts grant the request by mother to change the name.

To change the name of the child, convincing evidence must be presented. The mother must show that changing the name will be done in the best interest of the child. Some of the factors considered include age of the children, how strong the relationship with their mother or father is, the duration the child has used the name that needs to be changed and whether the child stands to suffer if the name is changed. The mother must also proof that there are benefits of changing the name. The court is obliged to consider the interest of the child above that of the mother or father.

Always remember that changing the name of a child does not alter the relationship such a child has with the parent. This does not exonerate the parent from taking responsibilities like parental visitation, support, intestacy or inheritance, among other entitlements.

The easiest way to get name change after divorce is using the divorce decree. This is only automatic if you want to revert to your original name. Because each case is unique, it is advisable that you contact a professional name change agency to make the process fast, easy and cost effective. 

Marriage Name Change Solution: What Should I Consider?

Most women prefer to take up the names of their spouses after marriage as a sign of changed status. This enables friends and relatives to easily refer to you and also recognize the changes that have taken place. The Marriage Name Change Solution available depends on the wishes of each couple. Knowing the solution that suits you the most will enable you to make the right decision and have an easy time changing your name.

Hiring an Agent or Doing It on Your Own

There are two options available when you need to change your name after marriage. You may opt to undertake the process or to allow an agent to complete it for you. There are situations where you will need to be physically present. In other situations, an agent can make the application on your behalf. The option to complete the process on your own means that you have to queue in offices, fill numerous forms and drive to unknown locations only to get one form filled. An agent does the heavy lifting for you.

If your decision is to get a Marriage Name Change Solution kit from an agent, you will need to supply the agency with all the documents required. They include a certified copy of your marriage certificate and details to be filled in such forms as Social Security and filings to be made in court. This saves you the hustle of lining up endlessly and running from one office to another. You will be at peace to enjoy your honeymoon and return to a new life.

The agency will provide a marriage name change kit with all the forms you need to fill in one folder. Once you fill these forms, your name change process begins in earnest. The forms capture all the areas where you would like the name changed including banks, Department of Motor Vehicle, insurance, school alumni, Posta, neighborhood organization, etc. The kit simplifies the process by making it a one stop shop.

Name Change before Marriage

This is a strange scenario and is very rare. It might prove impossible because more organizations responsible will demand a certified marriage certificate copy. This is the principle document used in almost all places where you need your name changed. It is impossible to obtain it before the ceremony has taken place. However, nothing stops you from providing your details and filling the forms in readiness for the process. Once your marriage has been solemnized, you will provide a copy of the marriage certificate for the process to continue.

Hyphenating My Name

This is an option which can be used by people whose business and career identity depend on the name. They include doctors, motivational speakers, writers, sports personalities, etc. It saves you the trouble of having to rebrand the business which could see a significant drop in clientele.

While this option is available and considered one of the easiest, you must undergo the processes of legal name change. The new name after the hyphen must be included in a legal manner. Seek the assistance of professional agents to have the name changed as soon as possible.

What forms should I fill to change the name?

The forms to be filled depend on the areas where you need the name changed. Each station or institution requires you to fill a different name. Should you choose the assistance of an agent, you will get all the forms in a single folder. If you are changing the name on your own, you have to go round to all offices to collect the forms, fill them and return them. This is an extremely tedious process. Beyond consuming time, it takes a toll on your body and stops you from engaging in other more profitable ventures. Official government forms that you must fill include Social Security, IRS and US passport. The Department of Motor Vehicle also requires you to fill certain forms. Banks, insurance, credit cards, and any other institution where you need a different name will provide a unique form.

A simplified Marriage Name Change Solution is designed to meet your individual needs. Contact an agent to design a personalized package that meets your needs. The charges are reasonably low yet the agent will save you time, energy and allow you to rest after your wedding.

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