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 Do I Legally Change My First Name?

There is a process involved when you want to legally change your name. This process will apply whether you are changing the first, middle or last name. The process is almost similar in all states. However, a few differences will emerge depending on the circumstances under which you want to change the name. For instance, it is easy if the chance is anchored on your marriage status. With all the papers and justification required, it will be easy to complete the process. If you have criminal or civil cases in court, the process might prove a bit challenging. However, here is a step by step guide on changing your name legally.

Filing a Petition to Change Your Name

You will be required to obtain a petition from the county court. The papers are designed to collect your personal details and allow the court administrator to understand your identity, why you need to change and what you need to change the name to. Beyond the form asking you to provide your identity, it requires you to indicate whether you have active convictions and cases in court. The aim is to certify that the desire to change name is not an attempt to escape legal obligations.

The information given on the petition must be accurate and comprehensive. If the administrators find inconsistencies and errors, your application will be declined or the process will delay as you correct the mistakes. You need to sign the petition and further have it notarized. In most states, police background check is mandatory. You will therefore be required to present a disposition certificate if you have a history of conviction. You can obtain this certificate from the convicting court.

File the petition with the county court clerk. This should be in the county where you live. The court will require you to pay some administrative fees. These fees are determined by what your petition will involve. Complex cases attract higher fees. The fees may also change from one county or state to the other. You will be assigned a case number and given a date for your name change hearing.

It is mandatory to attend court hearing for your name change. The judge uses the opportunity to inquire more about your background and reason for desiring to change your name. The session could last a few minutes if your papers are in order and reasons for changing the name justifiable. The judge will give a ruling, a copy of which will be passed to you by the clerk.

Publishing Your New Name 

There are states that require you to publish your name in the local newspaper. This is meant to alert anyone with an objection. Requirements for publication, including circulation of newspapers and number of times to publish the name will vary from one state to the other. The clerk of the court where you file the petition will provide details on publication. There are instances where publishing the name is risky. The judge will make a ruling on exemption. For instance, if you are a victim of hate crime, rape or witness to a sensitive court case, you will be exempted. The aim is to conceal your identity and protect you from further harm.

The court requires you to return proof of publication after the expiry of the period granted. You will pay for copies of the certified name change order and use it to institute name change on different institutions. You can present the order to the vital records office in your state for processing of the birth certificate under the new name.

Acquiring a New Social Security Card after Name Change

Social Security Administration office requires you to present old identification documents and the order granting change of name. The documents you can present include Driver’s License, old SS card and proof of address, among others. They verify that you are the old owner of the new name. They require two weeks to complete the updating process and issue a new card. The old number is retained as well as previous personal records. Since other institutions refer to Social Security Administration database, they will not find inconsistency in your name or other details. You can them proceed to get a new Driver’s License from the Department of Motor Vehicle, change name in banks, insurance and other institutions.

It might appear hectic to Legally Change Your Name by visiting all the offices and filing petitions. Take a shortcut by engaging professional name change agents who will take up the responsibility. They save you time and allow you to focus on other personal duties yet have your name changed in the shortest time possible. 

How to Legally Change Your Name Back to Your Maiden Name

It is exciting to adapt the name of your spouse or a new name after marriage. However, most people want nothing to do with the name after divorce and therefore want to revert to the maiden name. There is a process involved when you want to Legally change your name After Divorce. With different options available, it will depend on the choice you make. Here are options for you to consider.

During Divorce 

Since most people use the marriage certificate to change their names, the divorce decree can be used to revert to the maiden name. Your attorney is required to make a request to revert back to the maiden name on his application for divorce. Divorce is an easier and solid justification for change of name. Most states accept this option and judges will accept the request with ease. The divorce decree will come with a pronouncement that you have reverted to your old name.

It is possible for the judge to decline your request even when the circumstances appear so logical. If you have a pending court case apart from the uncontested divorce, your request will not be granted. Persons who are convicted must produce a certificate of disposition, issued by the court that had convicted the person. In case you have debts, you will be required to get the consent of debtors in order to change your name.

Once the divorce decree has been signed, you will be issued with a copy. It is this copy that you present to Social Security Administration to obtain a new SS card. Once the SSA has issued a new card, you will use it to change the name at the bank, credit card provider, insurance, and such other offices.

Name Change Decree

The divorce might be contested or you need to change your name faster than the divorce will be concluded. The option available for you is to go to court and obtain a name change decree. The process and requirements will vary from one state to the other. You are required to obtain a form online or from the court and provide details to proof identity. The details provided also give the court justification for name change and the intended new name.

Name Change Decree application also interrogates your civil and criminal record. If you have been convicted or have pending cases, the judge may decline your application. Sexual offenders and those with debts find it difficult to change names if the crimes were committed under the names they wish to change.

Different states may require you to sign additional papers and take on different procedures. These papers could include publication of your name change intentions on public newspapers. There is a statutory period for the changes to be effected. This period will only be obeyed if all your papers are in order. In case someone objects to the name change upon publication, your application will be delayed. The clerk of the court will direct you on the steps to take to facilitate successful change.

All papers should be filed with the clerk of the court to facilitate processing. Each state has statutory fees that are to be paid by all seeking name change. Pay these fees during filing to avoid delays. In case you published the name and there was no objection, you may be granted the reversal without any hearing. However, there are instances where a hearing session may be required. The clerk will notify you about the hearing so that you can attend. Once your hearing is successful, you will be issued with a decree approving reversal to your maiden name. With the signed decree, you can move on to institutions where you need to change your name.

Using the Divorce or Name Change Decree to Change Names Elsewhere 

The decree provides sufficient proof that your change of name has been approved. However, it cannot be used as an identification document. You will be required to present the decree to Social Security Administration office where you will be issued with a new card bearing the new name. The old number and personal records will remain. Use the card to visit the Department of Motor Vehicle and obtain a new Driver’s License. The card also helps you to change your name in banks, insurance companies, school, social associations and any other place you are required to update your name.

Using an Agent to Change Your Name 

It is not mandatory to appear in person unless circumstances and the judge demand when you want to Legally change your name After Divorce. It will save you time and resources to engage experienced agents to handle the process on your behalf. It takes a shorter period and fewer resources to change your name on all platforms and institutions. 

How to Complete Marriage Name Change in Texas With Ease

Texas is one of the best states to get married. It makes it easy for couples to marry by providing lenient conditions. Once your status has changed, you want everyone to recognize that. The best route to take is to have a New Married Name. This enables people to recognize that you have transformed from ‘Miss’ into ‘Mrs.’ The state recognizes the desire for many couples to have a similar name and has therefore made it easy for you to change your name after marriage. Here are tips and the secrets you can follow to make the name change smooth as well as fast. 

Options Available When Changing Your Name after Marriage

The law allows you to change your name to anything you wish. This means that both partners can acquire new identities with ease. Some of the options when you need to change your name include

• Taking the last name of your spouse. This will result in a new name being added to your existing names. You may introduce a hyphen between your original names and the added one or you may allow the names to sound as one. This is easy because it allows you to maintain a large part of your previous identity. If you are a professional, people will recognize the new status while still having memory of the old self. 
• Adopt the last two names of your spouse without adding a hyphen. This change is a bit drastic. It means that you will be adapting almost a new identity and forgetting the old one. The level of scrutiny might be higher in this case because your names will have changed significantly. 
• Take a new name. This is for a couple that wants to have a totally new identity by shedding either of their names. The process involved in this case could be lengthy because you have to file an application at the court. It is easy to add a new name to the existing names than to pick a totally different one. This is why applications and advertisements are required in most states. The new name may be made from hyphenation of your two names or be unrelated to your old names. You make the decision on the name to choose. 

Change a name while collecting your marriage certificate is easy because it is proof that you have adopted a new name. In fact, you are not required to make any application or advertisement in the process. However, the sail is not always smooth for anyone who wants to be referred by a new name. The application to have your name changed may still be rejected even when it is based on marriage certificate. 

• Criminal acts- if you have a pending civil or criminal case, the court and even the registration office will decline to grant your application. The argument is that you are using the opportunity to escape justice. The court will order that you hold the application until the case has been resolved. 
• Escaping debts- has anyone filed a civil complaint about debt that you owe them? Authorities will decline to approve your application. If the name changes, it will be difficult to trace you since the history of your old name is erased. This is why the administration refuses to approve your application on the basis of pending debts. 
• Intent to commit criminal acts- if authorities establish that you are changing your name in order to conceal your identity and commit crimes, they will not grant your request. This applies even when you have been married. This is why you must declare your reasons for desiring to change your name despite the fact that you have been married. 
• Impersonate a popular figure- some people have names that sound like those of celebrities and other popular figures. They could easily pass as their namesakes. If you wish to change your name in order to resemble any of these figures, administrators will decline your application. However, you still have a chance to change to whichever name you wish because no one has a copyright to a name. Whether you are granted the wish will depend on how well you convince the authorities. 

Authorities may decline your application for any reason that they deem sufficient. However, it is your convincing power that will determine whether the application is approved or declined. You will be required to provide all supporting documents and have no hidden agenda when making the application. 

What next after getting the marriage certificate?

A marriage certificate in your new name appears as the ultimate step towards changing your name. While the certificate is a game changer, you still have a long way to go before you can be officially recognized with the new name. Because of increase in cases of identity theft, organizations are requiring consistency in names appearing on different documents. This makes it necessary to change your name officially on all documents used for identification. You will also need to update your name in institutions where you transact or have records. For instance, if you appear at the counter of your bank with an identification document that reads a different name, you will be suspected of identity theft. 

The change of name after obtaining the marriage certificate is a process. Here is a guide that will make it easy to update your name of all platforms and transform your identity completely. 

• Social Security Administration

This is your first stop after getting the marriage certificate with your new desired name. Organizations and government departments get their data from Social Security Administration. Once you have updated the name at the SSA office, you can use the new Social Security card to update the name on other platforms. 

The SSA office will require you to bring the previous proof of identity. Your driving license will serve the purpose. You will also be required to present the marriage certificate that bears your new name. Proof of address will also be used in confirming your personal details for update on the SSA database. 

The process of changing the name at SSA office takes two weeks. While you will be issued with a new SS card bearing your new name, the old details will remain captured in the system. You will maintain the old social security number. Once the name has been updated on the social security platform, it leaves you free to change your name on all other platforms like banks and social organizations. 

• Department of Motor Vehicle 

Make the Department of Motor Vehicle your next stop after Social Security Administration. The department will produce a new Driver’s License that can be used for identification purposes. DMV also enables you to change ownership details on the vehicle to be consistent with those of your Social Security card. In case the vehicle is co-owned, the other owner must be informed about the change of name. At the DMV, you can update your voter details to reflect the changes. You need to present the old identification documents like the Driver’s License and the new Social Security card. It helps to confirm your previous and present identities. 

• Financial Institutions 

Banks and institutions dealing with finances are extra careful about the identity of their customers. They will therefore demand that your name matches with that which appears on your Social Security card. The institutions where you are supposed to update your name include banks, mortgage companies, credit unions and insurance companies, among others. Your credit card name will also have to change. You might be required to visit the office directly, send an email or just call, depending on their verification procedures. It will be difficult and even almost impossible to transact without synchronizing the names.

• Social Circles 

Update your name and personal details in your social circles. This includes social groups like alumni associations, estate association, church and other welfare organizations where you are a member. Your names also need to correspond at postal services to ensure that your letters are not returned to sender. This could take a brief email or even a phone call to complete. Utility services providers also need to get an update on the name. Though they may not be too sensitive about the name, ensuring consistency will reduce confusion and make service provision easier for them. 

To ease the process of name change after marriage, it is advisable that you buy more certified copies of your marriage certification. Since this is the document you are using as your basis for name change, more copies will give you a chance apply for change in many institutions at the same time. This reduces the time it takes to complete name change. 

Use the Agency to Change Your Name 

The process of changing to your New Married Name appears hectic because you are required to move from one office to another. You can enlist the services of an agent that will move from one office to the other and also make applications on your behalf. This helps to speed up the process and will even cost less. You do not have to stop all your activities in order to make applications. 

Just Got Married? Here Are 6 Steps to Guide You through a Name Change after Marriage

During a marriage process, there are many major decisions to make among them the name you will use afterward. In most cases, it is expected that the bride will take the spouse’s name as a sign of the change in status. These days, it is also possible to make other names after marriage including hyphenated names among others. The bottom-line is that this is something you should include in your priority list. If you decide to change name to married name, you have to go through a legal process and like with all government processes, it is a winding one. Many spouses who would have liked to take up new names after marriage has dithered due to lack of information or the fear of making a move.

If you plan to change your name after getting married, this is a detailed guide that will help you through the process. While the name change requirements vary from state to state, the process is similar and you should find it easy to get on with it. After all, they say information is power, and you will thus find it easier to get started. Read on.

1. Get a Marriage Certificate With Your New Name

The most important step in the name change process after marriage is getting your new name reflected in a marriage certificate. It is important to appreciate that a marriage license which is the document that allows the wedding to go on is not the official document that you need.

When applying for a license, make sure you use the new name because this will reflect on the marriage certificate. This legal document comes after the wedding and carries the new name of each spouse. Once you get hold of the marriage certificate, pay for several certified copies because they will come in handy in the other steps you will take to formalize your new name. All this you will do at the court clerk’s office.

2. Update Your Social Security Card (SSD)

Your social security card is the most important document every citizen in the U.S must.  It is the one the government uses to identify you with and in case of any changes to your particulars; you need to update this on the government’s database.  You will not apply for a new social security number but instead, you will update the name change to help the government continue offering the best services.

The SSD update happens online and you need to visit the Social Security Administration and down the security card update form.  Fill the form and remember to use your new name on the documents. once you do this, attach the following documents to your application:

i. Valid passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate which is proof of citizenship
ii. Certified copy of your marriage certificate which process you have changed your name.
iii. Photo ID
iv. Proof of identity which could be a valid passport, U.S. Military identification card, valid driver's license or valid state-issued identification card.
v. The current social security card
Within ten working days, you should have your new security card with your new name reflected. Remember it is only your new name after marriage that changes on your card and there is no further action to take on the card.

3. Visit the Local DMV For a New Driver’s License

Your driver’s license is another crucial identification document and if you have made any changes to your name, the same must reflect on your DL. To initiate the process, you have to visit the local DMV office. It is advisable to wait at last 24-48 hours after applying for your social security card before heading out to the DMV office. This ensures your new data reflects on the government database. You have to do this in person and you need to bring along the following documents:
i. Your new Social Security card or paperwork/receipt showing you have applied for a new card
ii. Certified copy of your marriage certificate
iii. Current driver's license.
iv. New driver’s license fee which varies from state to state
v. Proof of residence in your state (you can bring your insurance documents, lease/mortgage documents, bill or bank statement mailed to your current home address.

4. Update Your Passport/ Travel Document

Now, this is a very crucial step for newlyweds because there are most likely plans to travel. It is important to understand that while you need new travel documents reflecting your new name, they might take time and this can disrupt your travel plans. In most cases, you have booked your trip under your maiden name and if you update the passport before travel, it can lead to big problems. For this reason, you can update your passport after you come back from your honeymoon.

In case you have no plans to travel, you can update your travel papers on the U.S. Department of State website.  For the passport update, you don’t need to visit any government office because the website has everything you need and you only need to mail the necessary documents. When applying for a new passport, you need the following:

i. A new passport photo (2 x 2 inches in size)
ii. A certified copy of your marriage certificate
iii. For passports less than a year old complete form DS-5504 and your new book will be free
iv. For a passport older than one year, complete and submit Form DS-82
v. Current passport or travel documents
vi. For a Global Entry card, you will need to visit your nearest Enrollment Center after updating your passport.

5. Start Updating Your Name With Relevant Institutions

Once you have acquired these critical legal documents bearing your new name, you will move to another important step in the name change process. This entails updating all institutions and organizations that use your maiden name. It is important to initiate the process early to avoid inconveniences in the future. Some of these institutions include:

• Mortgage, Rent, and Utility Companies
• Credit and Debit Card company
• Insurance providers
• Your employer
• Your bank and other financial institutions
• Your attorney
• Learning institutions
• Newspaper and Magazine subscriptions
• Online subscriptions

To send notifications of your new name, you need a certified copy of your marriage license, new Social Security card and your new driver's license. Some institutions and organizations might have other specific requirements based on the services they offer and you should meet all their requirements for the new name to take effect.

6. Use an Online Name Change Service

Looking at the name change process after marriage, it is obvious that it is a lot of work. After going through a hectic wedding process, the last thing you want is to start filling out forms and hopping from one government office to the next. At least you need time to relax and settle down but at the same time, the name change is crucial for your life to continue seamlessly. To overcome this challenge, you should use an online name change service.

A name change service removes the hassle from the process by availing all the documentation you need in one place and filling out the necessary documents for you. You don’t have to search for the required documents because these experts are up-to-date with the legal requirements and ensure you have everything needed to get started. You can choose a name change package that suits your needs and budget.

On the name change website, you will get the documents required after signing up. You can request these documents and complete or opt for these professionals to fill them out depending on the name change package you choose. The idea is to make a name change after marriage a stress-free experience by offering tailored solutions to help you out.  These experts also offer invaluable resources to help you understand what the name change after marriage process entails. If you have no idea how to go about a legal name change, these experts will guide you through it all.

In addition to making the process hassle-free, a name change service also saves you a lot of time. While you will still need to visit your local DMV office for your new driver’s license, you will have all the required documents already filled out. This saves you time and the stress of having to queue for hours in the crowded DMV offices. Most couples dread the name change process but if you have no idea where to start, an online name change service is the best option for you.

If you have plans to change name to married name, there is nothing to fear. Yes, you have heard discouraging stories about the red tape and waiting but with this information, it is easy to get started and complete the name change quickly. What’s more, you can save yourself a lot of trouble by working with an online legal name change company to complete the process. It will save you the stress and time it normally takes to complete a legal name change after marriage.

How to Get a Marriage Name Change Solution in California after Getting Married?

If you are residents of the Golden State and you have wedding plans in full throttle, the mix of anxiety and excitement can make you miss out some important things.  For most couples, once the ring is on the finger, it all bliss and life of joy but there is an important missing detail; a new name after marriage. Now that marriage is one of the most important changes in your adult life; it is advisable to accompany it with a name change. In California, the process of a name change after marriage can get overwhelming with several office visits and multiple documents to download, fill out and mail.

This article offers a detailed marriage name change solution in the Golden State. Read on.

1. It All Starts With a Marriage Certificate 

A marriage certificate is a legal document and it comes in handy in the name change process after marriage. When applying for a marriage license, you need to use the new name you have chosen because this reflects on the marriage certificate you receive at the court office.

To apply for the license you need to produce a valid picture ID and appear in person at your county clerk's office. Pay for certified copies of the marriage certificate which you will use in acquiring new documents and sending out name change notifications.

2. Update Your Social Security Card 

Once you have a marriage certificate, you need to update your social security card to reflect the name change after marriage. To save time, you can download and fill out the Social Security SS-5 form available at the government’s website. You need to attach a certified copy of your marriage certificate, your driver's license, state-issued non-driver identification card or US passport.

You can complete the SSD change online or take the documents in person to the nearest Social Security office. Remember the process requires original documents and taking them in person is thus the easier option instead of mailing such sensitive documents.

3. Visit the Local DMV for a Name Update 

Once you update your Social Security card, you should visit the local DMV for a new driver’s license. This has to be in person and you need a certified copy of your marriage certificate, your current driver’s license and proof of residence.
It is advisable to visit the DMV about 24 hours after applying for a new social security card because the name change has to be verified electronically using your new social security card. You should also carry along the receipt for the social security card application.

4. Passport Change in California After Marriage 

After changing your name on the marriage certificate, you need to apply for a new passport. The process for a passport application in California is similar to other states. You need a certified copy of your marriage certificate, proof of residence, a color passport photo and original passport. You can initiate the process by downloading the relevant Form DS-5504 (for passport issues less than a year back) or Form DS-82(for passports issued more than a year ago).

To complete the name change ion your passport, you should complete the forms and mail them to the National Passport Processing Center or visit the Department of State Passport Agency offices in San Diego, San Francisco or Los Angeles. Make sure you schedule an appointment before visiting and carry all the required original documents.

The renewal fee for a passport in California is currently $110but if you need the process expedited, there is $60 on top of the regular renewal fees. Remember this process takes 4-5 weeks before you get a new passport and if you have travel plans for your honeymoon, you should only update the travel documents once you get back.

Hassle-Free Option for a Name Change After Marriage in California 

There is no denying that a name change after marriage in California takes a lot of time and energy. The last thing you want after a hectic wedding is another equally tedious process. An online name change service saves you all the hassle.

These name change experts give you access to all documents you need for a name change after marriage. They offer tailored name change packages and depending on which you choose; they can also fill out the forms and mail them to relevant offices.

You now have a choice for a marriage name change solution; you can opt to go through the hassle or work with a name change service for a hassle-free process. 

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 Do I Change My Maiden Name After Divorce?

Most people want to have nothing to do with their spouses after divorce. The common action is to drop the sir name or name you had chosen as a family. It sounds easier to just drop it in your social circles and command people to revert to your old name. This sounds easy, but it will cause problems when there is a discrepancy in your name in official documents. You should therefore Legally change your name After Divorce. This ensures that your official documents capture the new name you have chosen. It will save you from identity struggles.

The process may vary from one county and even one state to the other. Variations will also depend on the uniqueness of your divorce case and the prayers you make to the court. It will also depend on the process you choose to follow in order to achieve the desired results. Here is a guide on changing your name legally after undergoing divorce.

• Make a Prayer in the Divorce Decree

This option is used and approved only when you need to revert to your old name. It means that you had changed your name using the birth certificate. You make a prayer to the judge to declare that you have dropped the name associated with your spouse and reverted to your original name. Once the divorce decree is out, your name will be changed automatically. You will be using the decree to effect changes in other documents and databases. This option can also only apply if the proceedings have not been concluded.

• Amendment to the Decree

There are states that make it easier to Legally change your name After Divorce even if the decree has been released. You are required to make a request to have the decree amended. This process involves the court including a language that you can change your name in a fresh release decree. This process is easier compared to filing an original petition to change the name. The process allows you to use the amended decree to change your name on other databases and official documents.

• File a Petition to Change Your Name

This is the original procedure of changing your name regardless of the circumstances. You will be filing as if divorce is not an issue. This process is lengthy and requires a lot of paper work. You may also be required to appear in court and also present proof documents to support your plea for a name change. In some instance, you will be required to proof your identity and appear in person. Affidavits may also be required as proof of identity. Check whether this procedures and process are required by your state before beginning on it. Consult an experienced name change agent to guide you on the best path and the requirements for an official name change.
The processes indicated above are only meant to kick-start the process of the name change. The decree that emanates from the above process is what you will use to change your name on other platforms. The first stop should be the Social Security Administration office. This is where you will update your personal information and also get a new card bearing your name. It is important to change the name at the social security office because other departments like DMV draw their information from the social security database. In case of discrepancy, your request for services will be denied.

Visit the DMV about 24 hours after updating your information at the social security office. This window period allows information to be updated since the DMV relies on data from the social security office. You cannot get a new DL without appearing at the offices in person. You also have to provide proof documents, which could be the new card or receipt of payment to have the card processed.

Changing Your Name Online After Divorce

There are states and procedures that allow you to make the application online. In most cases, it is forms that are provided online. You can also send requests and make appointments online to make it faster when you visit the office in person.
To Legally change your name After Divorce, it is easier to use the decree. Making a generic application takes time and requires a lot of documentation. With the aid of experienced agencies, you can speed up the process and spend less. The agency does the cueing and running around on your behalf. With guidance from an experienced agency, you will get your new name in a snap. 

What Is the Process For Legally Change Your Name?

There are various reasons to legally change your name.  The most common ones include marriage and divorce but many people also change names for professional reasons. Well, everyone has a right to a name change as long as the reasons behind this big life decision are legal. If you have asked around about how to get it done, you must have come across many views on the same. Many people avoid going ahead with the name change because of the mystery around it.   Whatever the reason behind the name change it is important to gather as much information as you can. It makes the process easier and you gain more confidence to go through with it.’

In this article, you will learn how to go about legally changing your name and how to make things easier for yourself. Read on.

Name Change after Marriage 

• To legally change your name after marriage, you need a marriage certificate. To get this, make sure you indicate the new name on the marriage license which allows the wedding to go ahead. This is the document used to process the marriage certificate and the name used will remain. 
• Once you have the marriage certificate, get certified copies from the county offices. These certified copies will come in handy when applying for new identification documents and sending notifications of the name change.

Name Change After Divorce 

For a name change after divorce, you need a name change order given by the court.  You can include a name change request in your divorce filing to get a name change included in the divorce decree. You can also file a petition for the name change decree after the divorce ruling. You need to file a name change petition in the court and fill a name change form. After a court hearing, the judge will give a name change decree and you need to get certified copies for use when applying for new legal papers.

Name Change for Any Other Reasons 

If you want to change your name for any other reason, you have to file a name change petition in the courts. It is possible to download the required documents for this purpose from your state’s website. In New York, these include a Name Change Petition, Name Change Order, and Request for Judicial Intervention (RJI) and Index Number Application.

You will get an index number after filing the completed forms at the courthouse. In some states, you will need to send out a notification through a local newspaper at this stage. In a few weeks’ time, the court will grant your name change request or decline. If the name change goes through, you get a name change order. Make sure you make certified copies for use in the remaining steps of the name change process.

Apply For a New Identification Documents 

Once you get a marriage certificate or a name change order, you can now start using your new legal name. However, you need new documents including:

1. Social security card: You should visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) website and download the application form (Form SS-5) a new social security card. Provide a certified copy of a marriage certificate/name change order, Proof of identity (old SSD, driver's license, state-issued non-driver's ID card, or US passport) and Proof of citizenship ( US Consular Report of Birth, or Certificate of Citizenship/ Certificate of Naturalization, US birth certificate). 
2. Driver’s license/ vehicle title and registration/ voter registration card: For these documents, you need to personally visit the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You need a marriage certificate/name change order, driver's license, US passport or passport card and a Social Security Card.
3. US passport: For a passport issued less than one year ago, you need to download and complete Form DS-5504 and provide your current passport. To replace an older passport, download and fill Form DS-82. 

Once you get these documents, send out notifications to people and institutions who need to know about your name change including your bank, employer, schools, utility service providers, post office, creditors and debtors, Mortgage Company among others. All your notifications must include certified copies of your marriage certificate or name change order.

To make life easier for yourself, you can use an online name change service that removes all the hassle from the process. These services help to legally change your name with more ease by providing up-to-date and appropriate forms and filling out the forms for you.  They offer tailored name change packages to suit different clients and once you have identified your needs, these experts guide you all the way. Legal name change just got easier and you don’t have to pay through the nose. 

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 Do You Legally Change Your Last Name After Getting Married?

If you are like most brides, you have probably taken the plunge and decided to use your partner’s name. It is the most natural decision for most women, and of course, it is a tradition that has been around for ages. Well, after the hectic wedding process is over, you have to think about the name change seriously. Remember your name is the essential legal identification and if you make any changes, it has to go through a legal process. How do you go about changing name after marriage? It is a question most couples don’t consider until after the wedding. Your marriage certificate might have your new name but this doesn’t make the process legal.

This article highlights the steps you need to take to legalize the name change after marriage. It is a tedious process but luckily, you will also learn about an innovative solution that removes all the hassle from a legal name change.

1. Use the New Name on the Marriage Certificate
When applying for a marriage license, remember to use the desired name. A marriage license gives the go-ahead for the ceremony but a marriage certificate comes after the solemnization of the union. The name used in the marriage license finally reflects on the marriage certificate.
When collecting the marriage certificate, make sure you get certified copies to use when applying for new identification documents. You will also need these copies when sending out notifications about the name change to concerned parties.

2. Apply For a New Social Security Card (SSD)
The social security card is the most crucial identification document and after a legal name change, you need to apply for a new one. One the Social Security Administration's website, download and fill the application for a new card. You will need a copy of your marriage certificate and identification documents including your old SSD, a copy of your birth certificate and your driver’s license. It takes around ten business days for a new SSD.

3. Change Your Driver’s License
Your driver’s license is the next most crucial identification document that needs a change after your marriage. For this, you will have to visit the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. You need any identification documents such as your new social security card, your old DL and a certified copy of the marriage certificate.

4. Change Your Name Elsewhere
Now that you have been using your old name in all your transactions, you have to notify every concerned party about the changes. Some of the most crucial people and institutions that need to know about the name change include:

• Your bank
• Creditors and debtors
• Mortgage company employer
• Employers/payroll
• Post office
• Electric and other utility companies
• Voter registration office
• Schools and alumni associations
• Credit card companies
• Insurance companies (auto, home, life)

When sending name change notifications, make sure you attach a copy of the marriage certificate for the concerned party to take the matter seriously. Remember a marriage certificate is a legal document and anyone who receives the name change notification will have to comply.

A Convenient Alternative in the Name Change Process 

Truth be told, the traditional name change process is tedious, time-consuming and frustrating. You have to fill out many documents and deal with queues at crowded government offices. Most couples avoid the name change process due to fears of the bureaucratic red tape but there is a now a solution. An online name change company removes the hassle from the whole process.

These companies offer tailored name change services and provide all the information you need, updated documents you require and even help to fill out the forms. A tailored name change service toolkit enables you to complete the process faster and without any hurdles. You don’t have to hop from one office to the other as all the documents are on one platform.

Still worried about changing name after marriage? Now you know the two approaches to the important process. Go online and enjoy a hassle-free name change.

Tips for How to Change Your Name after the Wedding

When preparing for your big day, there are many momentous decisions you have to make. Your wedding day is one of the most significant occasions in your life, and understandably there is a lot of anxiety that surrounds it. To ensure everything works out, you need to consider every situation. One of the most important decisions you have to make is the name change after marriage. You have to go through a process of changing your name on all of your documents. 

If you have asked around about how to change your name after marriage, you must have heard stories about office visits, delays, queues and lots of paperwork. However, you can make things easier by learning more about the legalities involved and steps you need to take to accomplish this task. 

Here you will find tips to help you change your name easily after marriage.

1.    Decide on the Name Early 
 
Don’t wait until the last minute to deliberate on the name choice. There are many choices to decide between, and you are free to pick the option that works best for you. You can opt to create a new surname by hyphenating your maiden name with that of your husband. There are other choices of a name change depending on your personal preferences, professional considerations and acceptable practices in your new family.

2.    Get your Marriage Certificate and Certified Copies 

When applying for a marriage certificate, make sure to use the new name you have chosen on your marriage license. After the marriage, you will get a certificate and you will need to purchase certified copies of the same. They will come in handy when applying for new papers. You will not have to use the original copy again so keep it somewhere safe.

3.    Apply For a New Social Security Card 

You need to update your social security card to reflect your new name. This can be done by downloading the form from the social security administration website. Complete the form and attach the certified copy of your marriage certificate, proof of citizenship (birth certificate or passport), proof of identity (valid driver’s license or passport) and your current social security card.

4.    Apply For a New Driver’s License
Once you have applied for a new social security card, visit your local DMV office and apply for a new driver’s license. You will need a certified copy of your marriage certificate, your old driver’s license, new social security card, and proof of address. You will pay the required processing fee and wait for your new driver’s license.

5.    Apply For a New Passport

If you plan to travel for your honeymoon, it is advisable to wait until you return before playing for new travel papers. To apply for a new passport, visit the state department and download and complete Form DS-5504 (if your passport is less than one year old) or Form DS-82 (if your passport is more than one-year-old). Passport changes are through the mailand you need to include a certified copy of your marriage certificate, current passport and recent color photograph and a check for the payable passport fee.

6.    Start Changing Your Name

Once you have acquired the new documents, you need to contact all agencies/institutions which have your old name. These include:

•    Banks, credit card companies
•    Insurance provider
•    Mortgage company
•    Auto-pay accounts including subscriptions
•    Post office
•    Utility service providers
•    Doctor’s offices
•    Investment accounts
•    Attorney’s offices
•    Employers/payroll
•    Loyalty programs
•    Voter registration office

7.    Using an Online Name Change Service 

Looking at all these requirements, it is clear you need a lot of time to change your name after marriage.  Considering that this process comes right after a tiresome wedding process, a convenient alternative is the best method. This is where an online name change service comes in handy.

These services make available all the paperwork you need to change your name legally.  They have several tailored name change packages and once you select the most suitable, they will complete the paperwork and send it to you for signing. Once you sign, you only need to send the paperwork to the necessary recipients.

Your passport and social security card will arrive through the mail. For the driver’s license, you still need to visit the local DMV office but you will have the paperwork ready, thus saving yourself a lot of time.  Using an online name change service after marriage is a convenient, hassle-free way to legally change your name after marriage.

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.

Guide to change your name legally after marriage in New York

Changing name legally after marriage is something quite common. It is a part of tradition and culture to take your husband’s last name after marriage. Changing your name legally is not an easy task. It requires effort, concentration and attention to every single specific detail. Different questions can come up in your mind when you thinking of getting your name legally changed. You will wonder on how to get started, what the procedure is and how to get started for this process. This is the time where you need to fill several forms, make payments here and there and also visit offices. Understanding the prerequisites for this process and preparing yourself accordingly is utmost important. It is a long process so most of the couples tend to complete it after their honeymoon.

If you want to legally change your name after marriage in New York, you need to do the following-

•    Change your name on the social security card
•    New York’s driver license name change
•    Vehicle title and registration name change
•    NY voter registration name change

Changing your name with the SSA

The very first thing you need to so is changing your name with the Social Security Name Change. It is very important to go with SSA as later when you go with DMV or vehicle registration, they need to verify your social security number. There is no provision of applying for the name change online, so you have to either send an application through mail or apply in person. To find the nearest office to your place, you need to check with your area zip code in the SSA.Gov website.

Known as for SS-5, you need to complete this application for Social Security Card. For this the documents that are needed are as follows-
•    Marriage certificate, this is the legal name change document
•    ID proof such as driver’s license, state issued non-drovers ID card, US passport. SSA can also accept employee ID card, health insurance card, US military ID card
•    You need to provide US citizenship such as US birth certificate, US Consular Report of Birth or Certificate of Citizenship

The entire process of name change with SSA does not involve a single penny. It is absolutely free. The important thing you need to remember here is to submit originals of the documents or certified photocopies. Regular photocopies are not accepted in this place. You need to pay a small amount of fee to get certified photocopies but that will help you to have a peace of mind and not get worried about submitting original documents. Your new Social Security Card will be mailed to you after the application process is over.

Change your name with the New York DMV

Your next destination is Department of Motor Vehicles after you get the Social Security Card. You can get your driver’s license name change along with vehicle title and registration name change done here with ease. DMV does not accept name change application through mails or online. You need to get the entire process done by being present at the DMV office. Check the DMV.NY website to figure out the nearest DMV office to your place. The documents needed for name change are as follows-

The current DMV documents where you need to get your name changed
Valid New York’s driver license or a combination of the following documents-
Social Security Card
Marriage Certificate
US military photo
US passport or passport card

Apart from the following documents mentioned above you need to complete the application form known as MV-44. You can get the driver’s license or learner’ permit here for $13 and New York non driver ID card for $5. However, vehicle registration and certificate of title are free of charge here. When you apply for the name change process in DMV, you will get your new driver’s license, registration and the title in the next ten days.

Update records of voter registration

You can go for updating the voter registration records to get your name change after marriage. You can go for this process at the same time you apply for name change in DMV. Till the time your request is processed, you won’t be allowed to go to the polls. You need to use the New York State Voter Registration form to update your voter information directly with New York County Board of Elections.

The last thing that you need to do is change your name with US passport. This is an important part of legally change your name after marriage process in New York. If your passport was issued less than one year before your name change then you need to go for form no DS-5504. If your passport was issued more than a year before your name change then you need to go for form no DS-82. You need to be very careful and do each of the steps carefully for your name change process.

How to Get a Legal Name Change in New York after Divorce

Divorce comes with a burning desire to cut all the links you had with your spouse. The name is one of the elements you want to leave behind once you are divorced. Fortunately, New York City has made name change after divorce easy in order to get a new identity and a fresh lease of life.

The process of changing your name after divorce is not fundamentally different from other instances. The only difference is the reason you give for name change. This article addresses three name change aspects in depth.

• The correct process to follow when changing your name
• The paperwork you need to complete in order to change the name legally 
• How to begin using the newly acquired name

Changing your name after divorce presents you with a dilemma. What new name will you use? There are several options that you can consider when choosing a new name.

• Drop the name of your spouse and remain with your original name
• If you had generate a hybrid name with your spouse, you can drop it to revert to the original name
• There are instances where you need to change to a new name. This is especially common where the spouse is violent or the life of your children or your own is in danger. You may also want to have a totally new identity and therefore choose a completely new name. 

Whichever option you choose, the process to be followed is the same. Think deeply about the name chosen and the justification because the process of changing the name costs money and is engaging. You will not have the time to repeat it repeatedly at will. If name change is not necessary or will complicate other processes in life, it should be ignored. You can drop the name socially or adapt another and continue to use other names in your official documents.

Divorce is a strong justification for you to change name. However, it is not automatic that you can change the name because you have divorced. In some cases, the change will be declined despite the court having approved your divorce. Here are instances where your application will not go through.

• Choosing a vulgar name. Authorities do not approve names that are derogative and those that are viewed as offensive. 
• A racial or religious slur. If the name offends a group of people or race, your application will be declined. 
• Punctuation marks are also not admissible names whenever you want to change. This is because they are confusing. Imagine a name like “!” in the middle of a sentence. No one will read it as a name. However, you can use the full name of an exclamation mark like “Coma” or “Period” as your name. 
• There are personal instances that may hinder your name change. If the authorities think that the change is intended to facilitate crime, it will not be approved. Further, where the change will cause you to escape responsibilities like paying alimony or such other financial responsibilities, approval will not be granted. 
• Changing the name to a confusing name will also be met with resistance. For instance, if the intention is to defraud people by pretending to be another person, the change in name will be declined.

The name you choose and the reasons for change are usually personal. Restrictions indicated above are only meant to ensure that people do not take advantage of the process to commit crimes or escape responsibilities. By considering the issues raised above, you will clear the way for a quick and sure process of name change. It reduces the time taken to have a complete name change with necessary approvals. It will also ensure that you spend less money since a lengthy process also becomes expensive.

The Process of Name Change in New York After Divorce

The law allows anyone to change his name at will. However, the changes must be formalized and easy to track. It also allows your new name to be recorded and recognized by government institutions as well as private entities. It could be challenging for organizations and the government if people changed names at will.

The process of divorce can be used in changing the name. You are required to petition the judge to include the new name as part of the prayers you are seeking. The courts are permitted to grant formal reversal of your name to the previous one as part of the petitions granted. Note that this prayer must be expressly stated during divorce. If you do not make the request, the change of name will not form part of the outcomes granted. The prayer sort may be declined because of pleadings by your spouse or objection of the court. A third party may also object for other unique reasons.

Once the divorce decree is given, you will use it to effect name change in other jurisdictions. Mainly, you need to change the name on all your documents as well as places that you are registered under the previous name. You require the following documents to undertake the change.

• A certified copy of the divorce decree as issued by the New York court. This can be granted on request by the court and even mailed to you on demand. 
• Identify proof that is recognized in New York. This includes your passport, State identity card or your driver’s license. 
• Proof that you are of legal age. The documents that can be used include hospital records, birth certificate or adoption decree

Depending on the unique nature of your case, you may be required to provide other documents. If you do not have the divorce decree copy, you can request it directly or using agents online. A similar request can be made for identification and proof of age documents. The availability of these documents will determine the success of your petition or application.

Petition to Change Your Name in New York

You will be required to file this petition if you did not plead with the court to allow name change or the prayers were denied. Not all courts can rule on name change and some cases receive a negative answer because of their uniqueness.

The petition is filed separately from divorce pleadings. The petition requires you to provide particular personal details before the request can be approved. These details must be accurate and conclusive to avoid doubts or denial of your application. Some of the information required includes

• Name, age, birth information and your current or envisaged residence
• You must provide your birth certificate
• Formal child support obligations
• Spouse support responsibilities
• Any history of criminal conviction. You must indicate whether you have been indicted for violent felony at any point in the past. 
• Bankruptcy charges or proceedings
• All proceedings, liens, judgments and actions that are pending against you

If any of this information is missing or inaccurately entered, your name change will be declined. The court must be satisfied that the change will not facilitate commission of crimes or evading justice. Personal information also enables the court to decide the merit of your case.

In New York, you must publish your desire to change the name for the public to raise objections or approve. This requirement will only be overlooked in particular circumstances including

• If the publication will compromise your safety because of prevailing circumstances. This is a determination for the court to make. 
• Where you personally ask the court to restrict access to your information including current address, name, telephone, business and any other information whose sharing would compromise the safety or comfortable living of the petitioner.

Any exemption on publication must be presented to the court for determination. Where the judge orders publication, the mode of publication will be outlined and it must be strictly followed. You must return an affidavit of publication to the court from the publishing newspaper. In case there is an objection, your petition will be reviewed by the court and either approved or declined.

Notify Necessary Government Agencies of Your Name Change 
While the court has granted name change, there are authorities that need to be notified to enable them update their records. This will also ensure that you are not using two different names on official documents and government platforms. Present proof of name change to Social Security Administration in your area. This is usually the first stop because most other public and private agencies obtain their data from the administration. You will get a new Social Security Card bearing the new name but the old number will be retained.

Visit the Department of Motor Vehicle to obtain a new driver’s license bearing the new name. While at the office, update your vehicle ownership details as well as voter registration. Other institutions like banks, community welfare, school alumni and saving Sacco should be notified of the new name. This prevents discrepancies that are likely to be a source of conflict. Notify friends and begin using the new name in your social engagements as well. 

Last Name change Service: Removing the Hassle from Legal Name Change

The decision to change your last name change can be precipitated by various changes in your in life situation. Whatever the motivation behind this momentous decision, you need to have the right information in order to get it right. Many people have delayed taking this step due to the fear of the unknown while others have been discouraged by reports of bureaucracy. This being a legal process, you have to go through various offices for the name change to be finally effected.  This has always been a tedious and slow process but luckily, a last name change service can change all this. If you are planning to change your last name, it is important to get more insight on the process while also learning the advantages of using these online services.

Why Change Your Last Name?

The most common reasons people change their last names include:

i. Marriage: Most married women drop their maiden name and pick the husband’s family name. This signifies their new status and is also considered a show of commitment to the marriage.
ii. Divorce: Divorce is an emotionally draining situation and most women want to start on a clean slate after it is finalized. One way of getting a new start is by reverting back to the maiden name. This is an important decision as it shows the finality of the divorce.
iii. Other personal reasons: There are many other reasons to change a last name including death of a husband, business reasons and paternity suits among others.

The Name Change Process in Brief

This being a legal process you have to appreciate that your name is going to change in all your documents. This is where things get tricky because the government expects you to be proactive in effecting the name change once you have the legal go-ahead.

But how do you get this legal go-ahead? Take a look:

• Name change in marriage: If you wish to drop your maiden name and take your husband’s name after marriage, you have to start using the new last name when applying for a marriage license. This is the document that will be used to process a marriage certificate which is the legal document indicating your new status and reflecting the last name change. You should get a certified copy of the marriage certificate from the relevant authorities as it will be used to apply for new legal documents.
• In divorce: You can include a last name change request in your divorce filing or file a post-judgment motion to have a name change order included in the divorce decree. Once a judge grants your request, make sure you get certified copy of the name change order. This will come in handy when applying for new legal documents.
• Name change petition: For all other reasons to change your last name, you have to file a name change petition in court, fill the prerequisite forms, attend a hearing and finally get a name change order. Make sure to request for certified copies of the name change order to apply for new documents.

Once you have a certified copy of your marriage certificate or name change order, you need to apply for:

i. A social security card by completing Form SS-5 online.
ii. A new driver’s license by visiting the local DMV offices.
iii. A new passport by completing Form DS-5504 or Form - DS-82 depending on when the document was issued.

For all these, you need to show proof of name change. The next stage is notifying all relevant parties about your name change. These include banks and other financial institutions, credit card companies, insurance company, post office, employer, utility companies among others.

Using a Name Change Service

Traditionally, this process would consume a lot of time and energy. You have to fill numerous forms, hop from office to office and queue for endless hours to get assisted.  However, a reliable name change service streamlines the entire process. These experts have all the paperwork you need on one platform.

Once you sign up and indicate the type of service you want, all the paperwork will be filled and sent to you for signing. You just need to mail the signed documents to the relevant institutions. For the driver’s license, you will still need to visit the local nearest Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person. However, you will still have your paperwork ready from the name change service.

Changing your last name doesn’t have to be such a tedious task after all. You just have to identify a reliable last name change service, choose a suitable name change package, sit back and relax as the process continues smoothly.

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