In some states, a legal name change after divorce may be effectuated by filing a name change petition, just the same as anyone who wants to change his or her name for other reasons would file. Some states dont require any paperwork at all when changing your name after divorce. not LegalZoom, and have not been evaluated by LegalZoom for accuracy, The judge will then include an order in the decree changing your name, and you can go back to using your former name immediately without any further court intervention. Depending on your state, the clerk will schedule a name change hearing which will be in front of a judge after you file. Youll receive a Social Security card in the mail in about two weeks with your new name. The person you are trying to transfer it to has to call or visit the utility provider and request a bill transfer, providing proof of identity. our post-purchase services, however, you can request a refund within 30 days of purchase. Youll need to bring your Global Entry card, passport (in your new name), and your divorce decree or court order. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We use cookies to enhance your experience while using our website. WebChanging your name requires a few simple steps to follow: 1. Now that you have an updated photo ID (drivers license or passport), contact your HR department and inform them of your legal name change. Youll simply explain to the judge that you got divorced and show your divorce decree. Its possible your state requires that you submit a petition after the divorce, similar to anyone else wanting a name change (for reasons other than a divorce). ), state documents (drivers license, vehicle title/registration, etc. Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your surname. In these jurisdictions, so long as you use your former name consistently, you do not need to file anything further with the state. This information should be in your lease. This article has been viewed 299,113 times. Updating your passport is technically a correction so youll be able to submit everything by mail. Learn more about changing your name with the SSA by visiting our Social Security Name Change Guide. Theyll need a certified copy of your divorce decree, your passport or drivers license, your original security social security card, and a certified copy of your birth certificate. Divorce decree vs. divorce certificate: What's the difference? They enjoy the unity of sharing a family name, even if that name also belongs to their former spouse. first 30 days of purchase if you're unhappy with our services. If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. Note, if youd like to learn more about marriage name changes you can do so by visiting our name change after marriage guide. For tips on how to set up a new utility, scroll down! Each name change kit is personalized based on your information and contains step-by-step instructions and forms for your federal documents (Social Security, Passport, etc. You can selectively provide your consent below to allow such third party embeds. She earned a Juris Docto When comparing prices, keep in mind that some companies charge a flat monthly rate while others bill you based on how much you use their service. However, it is important to remember that any debts accumulated as a result of late repayments will reduce the overall matrimonial pot, and will potentially reduce the share available to both spouses. The complete guide to legally changing your name. Your bank may be able to issue you a temporary debit card while theyre processing your request for a new debit card with your name on it. your local Social Security office to see if theyll accept your divorce decree as a legal name change document. If necessary, publish the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name and go to your court hearing. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Note: TSA has been inconsistent with name changes so be patient. Thank you. Still, others choose to keep their last names, whether its similarly for work purposes because it feels unnecessary, or another reason entirely. The National Center for Health Statistics put together a helpfulstate-by-state guideto help you obtain a certified copy of your divorce decree. This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff. For more information from our Legal co-author, like how to change your name on your drivers license or social security card, scroll down! While getting a certified copy will probably cost you $10-$20, you will need this official copy to change your name on your other documents. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. Before you head to the DMV, check out your state DMVs website to see if you can set up an appointment. Have your current account numbers at each utility if youre shutting down service and a credit card or checking account number if you're activating service; some providers require a deposit and/or a transfer fee. Lastly, update your name with your service providers. Please call us with the following information: The account details (account number, address, holders etc) The date from which any changes take effect An up-to-date meter reading Your new Social Security card. This will make sure all your payroll information and employer-sponsored benefits (401k, health/dental/vision/disability/life insurance, etc.) Readmore, Our full-spectrum online divorce platform provides simpler, faster, more peaceful optionsempowering our customers to chart their own destinies and seek modern solutions that avoid the pitfalls of an outdated system. Youll need to bring the following documents to your DMV office: Learn more about the pros and cons of REAL IDs by visiting our REAL ID Guide. Updated Nov 16, 2022. By Divorce.com staff Its possible your state requires that you submit a petition after the divorce, similar to anyone else wanting a name change (for reasons other than a divorce). As with all name change situations, however, you should be sure to update all of your identification and personal records, including the following: Also, be sure to retain proof of your former name such as your birth certificate or old passport in case you need it. Assuming he is agreeable to the arrangement, it would be quite simple--just contact your utility companies. Some parents find that its easier to maintain the same last name as their children. Answers to In the meantime, you can check our resources page . You will be asked for general information such as your name and address. If you want to change to an entirely new last name or to a new name altogether, different provisions are likely to apply to your situation; you may have to file a formal name change petition with the court, for instance. If necessary, publish the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name and go to your court hearing. You will need to mail in the application along with the required documentation, a color photograph of yourself, and the applicable fees. The next step is to update your important financial accounts. The court rarely denies name change petitions if someone is resuming their former name after a divorce. I have not lived in our home for almost a year now but the PG&E bill is still in my name. If the company requires it, make a deposit payment for liability purposes and schedule a bill transfer date. using our site are just some of the valuable services we provide. If you're declaring a name change, you'll typically need to show a government ID bearing your new name, your name change certificate and, for newlyweds taking their spouse's last name, your marriage certificate. Then, they should get the forms reviewed and make copies, before filing the forms with the court clerk. However, some may require you to file a new application for a utility account. Step 2 Find legal proof of your former name. I would suggest that before you change anything, especially such things as deeds and mortgages, you should speak with a divorce attorney in your area. Start by looking through your checking account and credit card statements for things you auto-pay each month. WebTo file a Petition for Change of Name, one must first fill out the necessary forms, which can be completed online or downloaded here. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. Your money technically doesnt work if the name on your card doesnt match the name on your license. Some states allow you to simply post in a public place such as a designated bulletin board at the courthouse, while others require you to take out an ad in a local newspaper. Then, they should get the forms reviewed and make copies, before filing the forms with the court clerk. If not, you will need to visit an Enrollment Center in person. You may also get your petition notarized at a bank before returning it the courthouse. For tips on how to set up a new utility, scroll down! Your employer needs your current name for payroll and tax purposes. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 299,113 times. Your old social security card, your birth certificate, and other official documents youve had since before you were married can serve as proof of your former name. If you havent already, make sure you update your name with online shopping services and streaming services. 1) When you break up with someone whom you live with, be sure to have a dialogue about bills and whose name is attached to what so you dont end up in a $nafu. 2min read. This guide to legally changing your name will help get you started. Monthly subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify, Hulu, HBO, etc. Changing the name on your Social Security card is simple as long as you provide the necessary original documents and the required form. The content is Now that you have proof of your divorce, its time to let the government know that youre changing your legal name. Name Change After Divorce An 11 Step Guide, Update your name with the Social Security Administration, Get a new drivers license or state ID card, Update your voter registration information, Update your name with the United States Postal Service, Filing Taxes After Name Change [Updated for 2023], How To Add NewlyNamed To Your Wedding Registry (Updated for 2023). http://tenantsunion.org/en/rights/utility-best-practices, http://dept.clcillinois.edu/cie/Currentstudents/UtlitliesInformationComEdandComcast.pdf, https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0220-utility-services, https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/how-to-transfer-utility-services-when-you-move/, https://www.dummies.com/personal-finance/real-estate/how-to-set-up-utilities-in-a-new-home/. Your divorce decree serves as the key to making your name change possible. Keep in mind that if you choose to hire an attorney, you should factor in their fees in the costs. Now youre going to want to update your passport to match your new name. Its possible your state requires that you submit a petition after the divorce, similar to anyone else wanting a name change (for reasons other than a divorce). Approved. Obtain an "Application for a Social Security Card" form at your nearest Social Security office. 1 attorney answer. Please call us with the following information: The account details (account number, address, holders etc) The date from which any changes take effect An up-to-date meter reading If not, youll need to petition for a court-ordered name change. Removing Someone from the Account. Privacy ", so I wasn't aware that I needed to fill out a petition for a name change. WebHow to Change the Name on a Utility Bill Name Change on Marriage or Divorce. How do I transfer a utility bill to another name? Show a certified copy of your divorce decree or court order for a name change (available from your court clerk's office) Show proof of residency or U.S. citizenship. During busy periods, a utility company may not get to all orders promptly, or a customer may forget to include vital information. Changing your name after divorce. Have your current account numbers at each utility if youre shutting down service and a credit card or checking account number if you're activating service; some providers require a deposit and/or a transfer fee. Divorce.com does Its your best chance to avoid a long line! Updated Nov 16, 2022. Can I take my name off of utility bill during divorce? When youre deactivating a utility, give the company an address where you can receive your final bill if you don't use online bill-pay services. Most petitions also ask for a reason why someone wants to change their name. Any non-employee-sponsored accounts you have such as a Roth IRA, Traditional IRA, 529, or brokerage account. If you're declaring a name change, you'll typically need to show a government ID bearing your new name, your name change certificate and, for newlyweds taking their spouse's last name, your marriage certificate. Youll need to provide the following documents: If youre not a U.S. citizen, visit this link will help you determine which documents youll need to present in order to update your name with the SSA. unfortunately cannot grant a refund in cases where a customer has accessed our post-purchase Theyll update your name in their system before you receive your card, so your ability to make purchases online with your credit card shouldnt be affected. Instead, they permit you to simply go back to using your former name. You should not have to put down a new deposit if you're simply declaring a name change. are in your new name. This article received 11 testimonials and 89% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. 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