Just as people have many reasons for wanting to change their names, the name change process also has varying costs and fees, many of which depend on your state of residence.
In this guide, we'll walk you through some of the steps involved in changing your name and explain the various factors of how much money it costs to change a name.
How hard is it to change your name?
The process of legally changing your name tends to be similar across most states and usually ranges from around $100 to $500. Sometimes there are added costs, like the fee for posting a name change in a local newspaper.
Some common reasons for a legal name change include:
- You or your child has made a gender change.
- You have decided your birth name no longer suits you.
- You want your child to share the same last name as a stepparent.
- You want to change the name of an adopted child.
- A couple wants to create a new family name that suits their partnership.
How much does it cost to change a name in marriage?
Changing your name after marriage is optional, and the main requirements to do so are showing proof of identity and a marriage certificate at your local county clerk's office.
The costs of changing your name after marriage vary depending on state and cost from around $50 up to a few hundred dollars. In most cases, you have the legal right to start using your married name as soon as the legal ceremony takes place. Once the wedding ceremony is complete, you can take your official marriage certificate to the clerk's office and file it there. Then update your new name on all important documents.
Divorce: How hard is it to change your name after a divorce decree?
If you are legally divorced, it is possible to change your married name back to your birth name by going to your family attorney or local county clerk's office with acertificate of dissolution or judgment of divorce. Your state may also grant a name change during the divorce proceedings.
It is only permissible to change your name back to the name that was used before the marriage. If you decide to change your name to something other than your premarital name, then you will have to go through your state's name change process. Changing your name after a divorce is optional.
What is the process for requesting a name change via a court order?
There are other reasons for a name change outside of a marriage or a divorce decree. And just like in a marriage or divorce, you must go through a legal process in order to change their name.
In a court-ordered name change, you must petition to change your current name to something else. The process also involvesfiling an affidavitthat must be signed and attested by the judicial magistrate or a local notary public. Some states allow name changes via an online application.
How do I change my name on my driver's license?
It is also important to legally change your name on other documents like your driver's license. Most U.S. states allow a name change on the driver's license via an online application. You must present at least one of the following documents proving your legal name change:
- marriage certificate
- divorce decree
- certificate of naturalization
- court order
Can I change my name with the Social Security Administration?
You can change the name on your Social Security card while doing the name change for your driver's license. You fill out Form SS-5, or the application for a Social Security Card, and file it with your local Social Security office. Be sure to bring in a form of identification like a driver's license, original birth certificate, or passport along with the proof of name change. All documents must be original.
How much does it cost to change your name in GA?
According to the Georgia state government website, in order to file for a name change, you must submit a petition to a local Superior Court. The process requires the applicant to publicize their petition by placing a post in a local newspaper. The applicant then waits 30 days before being called in for a hearing. According to the Georgia Legal Aid website, the cost of changing your name varies by county. However, the filing fee is between $200-$250. There is an additional $80 filing fee to place the petition in the local newspaper. If you cannot afford the fee, you can file an affidavit of poverty or a fee waiver.
How much is it to change your last name in Louisiana?
The fee required to change your name in Louisiana varies by parish. The range is between $400-$500. Visit your parish's Clerk of Court for specific information. The process involves filing a civil lawsuit against the parish District Attorney. This requires filing a petition requesting a name change and a sample judgment for the judge to sign if the request is granted. Next, you will deliver three copies of your name change petition to the district attorney. If the request is approved, be sure to get a certified copy from the clerk of court.
Is it expensive to do a name change in the U.S.?
The bottom line is that the cost to change your name in the U.S. can depend upon the state you live in. You can use the advice given here in this article. However, you can find more detailed advice on most state websites. Hire a lawyer for support if needed.
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