How do I change my legal name in U.S.?
Learn how to legally change your name in the U.S. with this step-by-step guide. Get details on court petitions, fees, required documents, and how to update your Social Security, passport, and driver's license.
The process for legally changing your name in the U.S. depends on your specific situation and the state where you live. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide:
1. Determine Your Eligibility
Most U.S. states allow name changes for any reason, as long as it’s not for fraudulent purposes (e.g., avoiding debts or criminal charges). However, some restrictions may apply:- People with certain criminal records (e.g., felonies or sex offenses) may have additional requirements.
- Minors (under 18) generally need parental consent.
- Some states require you to be a resident for a specific period (e.g., 6 months) before applying.
2. File a Name Change Petition
To officially change your name, you’ll need to file a petition in the county where you live. Here’s what’s typically required:- Completed name change forms:
- Each state has its own forms, often available on the county court website.
- Some common forms include a Petition for Name Change and an Order for Name Change.
- Reason for the change: Most states accept almost any reason, except for fraud or deception.
- Criminal background check (if required): Some states require fingerprinting or a background check.
- Filing fee: Typically ranges from $100–$400. Fee waivers may be available for those with financial hardship.
Where to File
- Most petitions are filed with the county superior court, but some states handle it through probate or family courts.
3. Publish a Public Notice (If Required)
Some states require you to publish a notice in a local newspaper to alert the public of your name change. This is to prevent fraud (e.g., people changing their name to escape debts).- Where to publish: The court may provide a list of approved newspapers.
- How long: Typically, for a few weeks (varies by state).
- Exemptions: Some states allow you to skip this step for safety reasons (e.g., victims of domestic violence).
4. Attend a Court Hearing (If Required)
- Some states require a court appearance, while others approve the request automatically.
- If a hearing is required, a judge may ask why you want to change your name.
- If there are no objections, the judge will approve your request and issue a court order.
5. Obtain Certified Copies of the Court Order
Once approved, request certified copies of the name change order from the court. These documents are necessary for updating your records.6. Update Your Identification and Records
Once you have the court order, update your legal documents:Social Security Card
- Visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) office or mail in Form SS-5.
- Provide your court order, ID, and proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate or passport).
- Free of charge.
Driver’s License/State ID
- Visit the DMV with your court order and updated Social Security card.
- States may require proof of residence.
U.S. Passport
- Submit Form DS-11 or DS-82, your current passport, and a certified court order.
- Fees may apply.
Bank Accounts, Credit Cards, and Employers
- Notify your bank, employer, insurance providers, voter registration, utilities, and other institutions.
- Update your name on loans, leases, and contracts.
Special Cases
Marriage
- If you’re changing your name due to marriage, you typically don’t need a court order.
- Just use your marriage certificate to update your Social Security card, driver’s license, and passport.
Divorce
- If you want to revert to a maiden name, your divorce decree should state the name change.
- If not, you may need to file a separate name change petition.
Minors
- A parent or guardian must petition on behalf of a child.
- Both parents may need to consent, or the court may hold a hearing to determine what’s in the child’s best interest.