Why’s the Number of People changing their Names Growing?

There is a growing number of people changing their names. But why is that? What are the possible reasons for which you can change your name? There has been a cultural shift in how people perceive identity. People no longer stick with a name they don’t like when the name change process is pretty straightforward.

Social media has also significantly contributed to this new trend. People have realized that they not only have control over what they’re called online; they can make it official as well.

Of course, there are also more traditional reasons like Changing Name After Marriage and Legally change your name After divorce. Brides dropping their maiden name and taking up the grooms last name has been a traditional practice since time immemorial. 

Whatever reason you have for changing your name, there is a process to it. It’s always advisable to seek professional assistance to expedite the entire process.

1. Changing Name after Marriage

This is the most familiar reason for changing your name. Even though times have changed, and some prefer to keep do it their own way, it’s still a pretty common practice. 

Before changing name after marriage, couples have to wait two weeks for their marriage certificate to come out. The entire process requires you to provide proof of marriage. 

You are advised to use a certified copy of their marriage certificate and keep the original document. 

Note that each state has its own rules and regulations when it comes to this name change process. Ensure you research to find out what restrictions you should abide by. 

HitchSwitch has amazing packages to ensure you don’t go through the hassle of going from one government office to the next. This legal name change service gives you online access to all paperwork you need to Changing Name After Marriage.

2. Legally change your name after divorce

If a married couple decides to get a divorce down the line, the wife can drop her husband's last name and take back her maiden name. The wife would need a divorce decree for this to happen.

The couple will have to go for court proceedings at the county’s courthouse. A divorce decree can only be issued once the divorce is final.

A divorce decree is a legal name changing document that authorizes you to Legally change your name After divorce. You’ll need to provide it to complete several steps of your name change.

In case you want a surname different from the one indicated on the divorce decree, you’ll need to file a petition to make the necessary modifications. 

If your petition is rejected, you’ll have to go through a court-ordered name change. 

3. A Court-ordered Name Change 

For reasons other than marriage and divorce, you need a court order to proceed with your name change. This could be because you don’t like your current name, or you’ve changed your gender. Other reasons include;

• Taking up your father’s surname if you were born out of wedlock or adopted
• If you have a name that’s difficult to spell and pronounce 
• If you want to dentify with a foreign nationality
• For religious reasons
• For political or entertainment statements

Everyone is entitled to personal preference, and this includes the name they want to be known by. 

For most states you need to file your name change in court. However, there are counties where this is not necessary. Checking your state’s legal name changing laws ensures you follow the right procedure.

To get a court order, you’ll need to file a petition with the state’s court clerk. Once the petition has been approved, you can begin the name change process. You can change your name to anything you want as long as you abide by the following restrictions;

• You cannot change your name if the intention is to escape a criminal offence or evade paying a debt you owe
• Your petition cannot be approved if you’re changing your name to commit a crime 
• You cannot be allowed to take up the name of a famous person to mislead people 
• Your name should not include numbers or symbols 
• You should not take up a name that’s offensive (racial slur, threatening)

What’s next after Your New Name is Legal?

Well, once you’ve completed the entire process, you need to update all personal accounts with the new name. Below is a checklist of some of the things you should update;

• Banks and credit cards 
• Social security card 
• Driver’s license and vehicle registration
• Passport 
• Voter registration

Wrap Up

Everyone who’s contemplating a name change has their reason. This is a legal process that has specific steps to be followed. Whether you’re changing name after marriage or Legally change your name After divorce, ensure you do your research to find out the right procedure to follow. 

Five Factors to Consider Before Dropping Your Ex’s Last Name

Divorce is always messy. There are many things that you have to let go, and sometimes this includes your ex’s last name. Interestingly, some people do not even think about changing their names, at least not until they get remarried.

It is perfectly okay to drop your ex’s last name, but it is easier said than done. There are several factors that you need to take into consideration should you decide to legally change your name after divorce.

What Name Will You Take On?

Now that you have decided to drop your ex’s name, have you considered what other name you will be going by? Most people revert to their maiden names. In some cases, people also forego their maiden names for names of other relatives that they may have been close to. Other’s, however, take on new names of their liking.

For instance, Kris Jenner reverted to her maiden name, Kardashian, after her breakup with her husband. On the other hand, Yolanda Foster, the former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, changed her name to Yolanda Hadid after her divorce.

What about the Kids?

The main reason why most women choose to keep their ex’s last names is because of the kids. They want to have the same last name as their kids, so they feel that their hands are tied. It can also be a problem if your kids’ last names are different from yours or their father’s in cases of emergencies.

However, it is also possible to change your kids’ last names to your maiden name. In most cases, however, most women simply hyphenate their kids’ surnames with their maiden names or with the surname of their new partners.

Your Friends and Family Should be Involved

The implications of changing your last name are many and significant. It is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly, so it is advisable to consult your family and friends about it. Their support will help you overcome any misgivings that you may have. Their insights will also be invaluable in helping you come up with a new name.

Besides the support and help, it is only right to consult your family and friends about such a significant decision. Imagine their surprise if they found out that you have a new last name! They would feel betrayed and perhaps even lose some of the trust and confidence that they may have in you.

Realize that You Have a New Identity

It is okay to want a separate identity from your ex. However, your new identity should reflect on everything. You will need to update everyone, especially service providers such as your insurer, postal service, and doctors.

It will also take some time for your friends, family members, business partners, and other people in your life to get used to your new name. As such, expect people to call you by your former name every once in a while. Do not feel offended. When this happens, however, always speak up and remind them that you have a new name now – they will eventually get used to it.

There Will be a Lot of Following Up

As mentioned, taking on a new identity comes with numerous implications. The most hectic implications are the legal ones, and sometimes there may be costly confusions. This is why it is necessary to follow up with the authorities periodically. Check in with each concerned party after several weeks to ensure that your files are updated on their end.

You will also need to follow up with your various service providers to ensure that they are onboard. Again, expect some confusion during the early days of name change after divorce.

It Doesn’t Have to be Hectic

The very thought of changing your name is stressful. Well, it doesn’t have to be – you can leave it all up to HitchSwitch. This service provider handles everything for you – all you need to do is fill a simple form with your new chosen name, and they will do the rest. All your records will be updated, including your social security number, credit cards, voter registration, driver’s license, passport, and even loyalty programs.

Conclusion

You deserve to have a separate identity from your ex, and you deserve to go by the name you choose. Should you decide to legally change your name after divorce, ensure that you consult your friends and family, update all your records, and come up with a good name.

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 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. 

Getting a Legal Name Change after Divorce

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

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

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

All you need to understand about legally changing your name

When you want to change your name, it is a legal process, which does not necessitate presence of a lawyer. You have to legally change your name by following a particular procedure. In case you find it tough to handle your paperwork, it is suggested that you hire services of an expert, but without any doubt this will cost some money. There are many online companies, which give you instructions how to legally change name. So if you are overwhelmed by the though of name change, these companies can be a good option.

People legally change your name after divorce, or for some other reasons. It is not a big deal. Whenever you make up your mind to legally change yourname, you totally let go of your old name. However if you desire to go back to the old name, entire legal process of name change needs to be adopted. You have to follow a set procedure of legal name change prior to using that particular name on legal documents.

What you need to do to change your name?

In order to change a name you have to first pick up a new name. Just make sure you check out all possibilities and you are very comfortable with the name you choose. This is a very big decision, and you should ponder over it prior to reaching to any conclusion. In fact, you should put serious thought into which name you want for yourself. Though this might not be an issues if you are a female getting married, as you obviously will choose your husband's name.

Never ever, try to bypass law by making use of new name without getting consent legally. This will lead to wide array of issues. There is not much effort needed to avail of a new name. You only have you to file petition in court of your state's compliant name change form, which is available at clerk office of your state.

As a matter of fact, legal name change forms are also available online. Once you get hold of the legal name change forms, you have to fill in the blank areas, get hold of a witness, write the date, and put your signature. Finally, you have to notarize your name change form. Do not feel intimidated with name change process.

Once you have filed petition in court to give you new name, you will be given a court date when you can appear before the judge. On this date, your judge will either grant you new name or refuse to do the same. If it is granted, you can use new name on legal documents, for instance on your driver's license, social security card, birth certificate etc.

Complete the easy procedure online

Once you hold a copy of primary identification documents with new name, you can use it to change name on bills as well as bank account. Majority of banks accept judge certified name change forms regardless of the fact that you have not furnished your driver’s license which holds the new name. So go ahead and get your name change post-divorce or otherwise without any problem what so ever. Process is very easy and you will not face any kind of hurdle. The on line medium is best as it saves time and efforts needed for paperwork. So choose a good expert and relax.