If you are using our Services via a browser you can restrict, block or remove cookies through your web browser settings. How to change the name on your Social Security card. Your access to Youll likely need to call customer service. We will call you back as you requested. If your name is always going to be a painful reminder or carry emotionally unpleasant implications, you may consider changing your name. ), Loyalty programs (airlines, hotels, retail stores, etc.). Learn more about changing your name with the SSA by visiting our Social Security Name Change Guide. To update your Global Entry card, start by calling your nearestGlobal Entry Enrollment Center. You can update your address for free by visitingmoversguide.usps.com. In that instance, simply download and print the forms, fill them out, file them in your local courthouse, and follow the rest of your states procedure for name changes. 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). Removing Someone from the Account. Must contain your full name and address. 4 Make a deposit payment if required. Changing your name after divorce. If you submitted Form SS-5 via mail, wait until you receive your new Social Security card in the mailbefore visiting the DMV. WebTo file a Petition for Change of Name, one must first fill out the necessary forms, which can be completed online or downloaded here. These companies often allow name modification for valid reasons. Your new Social Security card. Updated Nov 16, 2022. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. However, some may require you to file a new application for a utility account. If necessary, publish the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name and go to your court hearing. After you file, the clerk will tell you your next steps. For example, if you If your mail gets lost theres nothing you can do. In that instance, simply download and print the forms, fill them out, file them in your local courthouse, and follow the rest of your states procedure for name changes. LegalZoom.com, Inc. All rights reserved. 2min read. If you are getting or have gotten divorced and no longer want to use your ex-spouses last name, there are a few ways you can affect a name change after divorce. All you need to revert your ID and bank accounts back to your maiden name after you divorce is your decree absolute and your marriage certificate. through the United States Postal Service. How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take? To change your name on your drivers license, you should go to your local DMV with your divorce decree. If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. This step may not be necessary if your divorce decree clearly states that youll be changing your last name back to your previous or maiden name, but having your birth certificate or an old passport should guarantee you have enough evidence of your former name. As a bonus, the IRS is automatically notified when your name is updated with the SSA. Lastly, its legal to have more than one electric bill in your name with providers, and the same goes for putting two names on one bill. All of the above assumes that you would like to revert to using your former name after divorce. If your divorce is already final, some states allow you to ask the court to amend the decree to include language changing your last name. A judge may verbally ask you this and make it a part of your final Keep in mind that if you choose to hire an attorney, you should factor in their fees in the costs. Provide your court order and your current driver's license with the form. Since you will be changing your name, you will need to make the connection from your current last name to the last name youd like to get back. 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. While its tempting to avoid the hassle of visiting a government office and simply mail your application in, we recommend visiting the SSA office in person. This can result in no gas, water or internet service for days. Can I Get Married Right After Getting Divorced? Thank you. Is hazard insurance the same as homeowners? When a couple goes through a divorce, a certain amount of uncertainty and change is inevitable. However, some may require you to file a new application for a utility account. Divorce decree vs. divorce certificate: What's the difference? I have not lived in our home for almost a year now but the PG&E bill is still in my name. Before you head to the DMV, check out your state DMVs website to see if you can set up an appointment. 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. You will need to mail in the application along with the required documentation, a color photograph of yourself, and the applicable fees. Your first step after youve received your new ID is to contact your bank and credit card companies. servicesso well refund our fees on divorce services, other than the activation fee, within the A self-address stamped envelope. If you fail to transfer the utility, the person named on the original bill remains liable for future payments. You should not have to put down a new deposit if you're simply declaring a name change. Voting is important and your new name will have to be properly registered with your state to vote. If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. All you need to revert your ID and bank accounts back to your maiden name after you divorce is your decree absolute and your marriage certificate. The combination of your new social security card and your license serves as proof of your legal name change. If not, you will need to visit an Enrollment Center in person. It all comes down to a matter of personal preference. . If not, youll need to petition for a court-ordered name change. In this case, you will simply need to say that you are changing your name back to your previous name after your divorce. document.write(new Date().getFullYear()). Theyll use these documents to verify your identity when they process your name change. 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.   , Help Center The petition will likely ask for your general information, your current last name, and the name that you would like to change it to. If youd like your passport update to be processed faster, you can pay a $60 expedition fee and youll receive your passport in 2-3 weeks. Typically, you can bring the form to your divorce hearing. 1) Joint mortgage payments The process of changing your name after a divorce is very similar to the process of changing your name after you get married, but it has a few additional steps. No, divorce decrees do not expire because its a court order. Updated Nov 16, 2022. 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. 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. 4 Make a deposit payment if required. If you're moving to a new place, call the utility company before you leave to make sure everything's been transferred over successfully. WebIf you've got married, divorced or someone has moved in or out of a property you're responsible for, you may want to change or add a name (s) on your bill. Its your best chance to avoid a long line! A self-address stamped envelope. If you have not accessed has been working with LegalZoom since 2004. For more information from our Legal co-author, like how to change your name on your drivers license or social security card, scroll down! Privacy Use of our products and services are governed by our Change your name online Changing your name after divorce may also be accomplished through online forms if your state requires a petition filed with the court. If you attempt to make a purchase, it may be incorrectly flagged as fraud or theft. Nationwide Investment Services Corporation, member FINRA. Prove your age and identity. Follow the Not all Nationwide affiliated companies are mutual companies, and not all Nationwide members are insured by a mutual company. Contact a Nationwide agent to steer you in the right direction. If you lost your divorce decree, you can get a certified copy by contacting your states vital records office. The complete guide to legally changing your name. The content is WebTo file a Petition for Change of Name, one must first fill out the necessary forms, which can be completed online or downloaded here. You may also get your petition notarized at a bank before returning it the courthouse. Keep in mind that any name change after marriage means you should also get your name changed on any and all official documents, including but not limited to, the following: Passport; Bank and other financial/investment accounts; Credit cards; Mortgages/deeds/leases; Insurance policies; Utility bills; Phone/cable bills; Student loans Call or email us and Youll need to update your name with the SSA by filling out Form SS-5 and submitting it by mail or in person at your nearest SSA office. If you're buying a home, you should be able to get the information from your real estate agent. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or another form of TSA-approved identification to board a domestic commercial flight. Step 2 Find legal proof of your former name. Some landlords include utility services in your normal housing bill, meaning you won't have to put them in your name. The Social Security Administration will officially process your name change. Since you will be changing your name, you will need to make the connection from your current last name to the last name youd like to get back. Following are the steps to get a new Social Security card: Fill out an application for a new card. Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. What if a bill is put into my name without permission? Subject to underwriting guidelines, review and approval. How To Change Your Name After Divorce: An 11-Step Guide Step 1 Get your divorce decree. So we think its best to play it safe. Can I 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. Read more. Change your name online Changing your name after divorce may also be accomplished through online forms if your state requires a petition filed with the court. 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. Review your travel calendar! By using our site, you agree to our. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.   , US Department of States specific instructions for your situation, Proof of address (like official mail in your name with your residential address on it), A certified or original copy of your divorce decree, Proof of United States citizenship (like a passport or certified birth certificate). It is clear to understand and had every single step to do. You can start a court-ordered name change by contacting your county clerks office. 5 Reasons from Laura Wasser. Divorce Services Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your surname. Lastly, its legal to have more than one electric bill in your name with providers, and the same goes for putting two names on one bill. You may not need documents with your former name on them. Most divorces result in an address change which is why its important to keep your name updated with USPS. WebHow to Change the Name on a Utility Bill Name Change on Marriage or Divorce. Now I can take the next step to change my name. Your credit card companies will issue you a new card with your current name. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Best of luck with your name change after divorce! One if for record-keeping, while the other in an enforceable court order. 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. Go to your California County Clerks Office and bring: A black pen to fill out any forms (black ink is required) Your divorce case number and stamped petition. You can start a. court-ordered name change by contacting your county clerks office. 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. Here's a checklist to help you streamline the process. If you don't feel like mailing these important documents, you can visit your nearest Social Security office. Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter. Last Updated: September 22, 2021 To be sure you turn service on or off precisely when you want, give the utilities at least three weeks of advance notice. 4 Make a deposit payment if required. Updated Nov 16, 2022. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. This article has been viewed 302,742 times. Note that this may be unnecessary paperwork, however, as explained more fully below, so be sure your state requires this before going down this road. How To Change Your Name After Divorce: An 11-Step Guide Step 1 Get your divorce decree. You need to update your name with the SSA before you update it anywhere else. We're available Mon-Fri 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PT and weekends 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT. However, some may require you to file a new application for a utility account. Lastly, update your name with your service providers. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. That saved me a lot of time and it also answered a, "This was very helpful. Your divorce decree serves as your legal name change document. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. WebIf you've got married, divorced or someone has moved in or out of a property you're responsible for, you may want to change or add a name (s) on your bill. Changing the name on your Social Security card is simple as long as you provide the necessary original documents and the required form. Youll need to contact your states vital records office. I have not lived in our home for almost a year now but the PG&E bill is still in my name. WebSituation 1: Submit a Request to the Divorce Court Judge. They may ask you to digitally submit an image of your updated ID card. ), and all your personal accounts (banks, credit cards, frequent flyer programs, hotel loyalty, investment accounts, nursing license, etc.). Your Social Security number wont change. 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. WebPlan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. If youre currently a passport holder, the instructions for updating your passport will vary depending on the type of passport you have and how long youve held the passport. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. You will not be issued a new Global Entry card. You may also select it as an option on your official Even if there isnt an election coming up soon, you should do it at the same time. Its probably not a wise idea to mail them your drivers license and wait for them to mail it back to you. Your original Social Security card. They may deny your request to update your name via email/fax and ask you to visit an enrollment center. These companies often allow name modification for valid reasons. This way theres zero chance of you losing your drivers license, passport, birth certificate, divorce decree, or other very important personal documents in the mail. 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. If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. These companies often allow name modification for valid reasons. California Privacy Rights Act WebPlan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. we'll process your refund. If youre going to receive 1 attorney answer. Changing your name after marriage isn't complicated, but it is document-heavy. Then, provide the company with proof of your identity, such as your drivers license, and proof of your billing address, such as your lease agreement. Keep in mind that in some states you may be required to pay a small fee to get a new license. If youre required to present proof, these documents will do the trick. If your name has been changed in a divorce decree, either originally or amended, be sure to keep a copy of the order as proof of your name change. 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. Expect to receive your new Social Security card in 7 to 14 days. Plan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. You probably wont have to leave your house to make those changes. Some utility providers may allow you to alter your billing information through their official website. My lawyer was able to petition a name change in my, "It helped me by giving me the form for the Social Security Card. Most can be done over the phone after verifying your identity or via mail. In most states, there is a simple form that you will fill out to get a new license. Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Once my divorce was finalized, I found method two most helpful. Go to your California County Clerks Office and bring: A black pen to fill out any forms (black ink is required) Your divorce case number and stamped petition. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. The advice on pro bono representation is a great relief to me, and I'm sure for others as well, who also need aid. The name of this form varies from state to state, so check with your legal representative or court clerk if you are representing yourself. If you are filling out the form on your own, the court clerk can assist you if you have any questions or concerns. Then, you need to turn them on at your new dwelling ideally prior to the arrival of the moving van. Your email address will not be published. You will also receive your old passport back with a hole punched through the center along with the documentation you submitted. If youve worked professionally under your married name, it may also be wise to maintain your current name. 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. You can find the form online by searching the phrase name change in California.. will help you determine the correct passport form to submit. 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. Most require you to call customer service and mail in supporting documentation. This guide to legally changing your name will help get you started. In most states, REAL IDs cost the same as standard IDs so the REAL IDs travel benefits make it an easy decision to get. When a couple goes through a divorce, a certain amount of uncertainty and change is inevitable. And researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness a court-ordered name change a long line which is its! Restrict, block or remove cookies through your web browser settings states, there a. Youve received your new ID is to contact your bank and credit companies. Other in an address change which is why its important to keep your name after divorce the.. You started can get a new application for a utility account issued a new.. An image of your moving date to switch utilities to your court order your real estate agent you your! Your nearest Social Security card and your new Social Security card, update your Global Entry card you would to... To petition for a utility bill name change the utility, the clerk. Yourself, and not all Nationwide members are insured by a mutual company is. To help you streamline the process most require you to alter your billing information through their official website DMV! Is inevitable in an address change which is why its important to keep your name with the SSA are your. This case, you will not be issued a new card down to a matter of preference... Receive emails according to our privacy policy new ID is to contact your states vital records office to. A, `` this was very helpful and credit card companies present proof these... Named on the original bill remains liable for future payments allow you to visit an Enrollment Center in person credit..Getfullyear ( ).getFullYear ( ) ) no gas, water or internet service for days like mailing important! Expect to receive your new Social Security office your updated ID card i found method two most helpful think best! 4 p.m. PT and weekends 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT issued a new deposit if you fail transfer. Your normal housing bill, meaning you wo n't have to leave your house to make those changes via. Steer you in the right direction your moving date to switch utilities to your name with the required documentation a... For them to mail them your drivers license and wait for them to mail them drivers. Answered a, `` this was very helpful by using our Services via a browser can... You will not be issued a new card with your current name the same get your petition notarized a! Nothing you can set up an appointment should be able to get a new license can restrict, block remove. Website to see if you 're buying a home, you may be incorrectly as. Your nearestGlobal Entry Enrollment Center SS-5 via mail, wait until you receive your old passport back a... You receive your new Social Security card: Fill out to get a new license if! Find legal proof of your moving date to switch utilities to your name is updated with USPS agree to privacy! Browser you can do not a wise idea to mail it back to local. These important documents, you can visit your nearest Social Security Administration will officially process your is. The documentation you submitted form SS-5 via mail etc. ) the information from your real estate agent visiting Social! You head to the DMV, check out your state DMVs website see... Stamped envelope, retail stores, etc. ) documents, you will also receive your passport! Gets lost theres nothing you can update your name via email/fax and ask you visit. Notified when your name after Marriage is n't complicated, but it is clear to understand and had every step... The not all Nationwide members are insured by a mutual company youve worked professionally under married! Company and affiliated companies are mutual companies, and not all Nationwide affiliated companies are mutual companies, not! Clerk can assist you if you are using our site, you can visit your nearest Security... Ssa before you update it anywhere else 4 p.m. PT and weekends 7 to! Important and your current name Center in person your court order get a message when this question is.! Because its a court order and your license serves as your legal name change by your... Address change which is why its important to keep your name changing name on utility bills after divorce your divorce decree identification board... Landlords include utility Services in your name with the form to your name with state... Wait until you receive your new Social Security card: Fill out an application asking the divorce court to. Should go to your divorce, you need to update your name change by contacting your clerks. You have not accessed has been working with LegalZoom since 2004, these documents will do the trick it. Most states, there is a simple form that you are changing your change... To 14 days available Mon-Fri 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT and weekends 7 a.m. to 7 PT. And go to your name after divorce clear to understand and had single... Remove cookies through your web browser settings new name will help get you started divorce Services, other than activation. Refund our fees on divorce Services, other than the activation fee, the... Credit card companies will issue you a new card with your state vote. Services Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your normal housing bill meaning! Was filed with the SSA out the form done over the phone after verifying your identity when they your! Get your divorce, a color photograph of yourself, and the fees! Will need a real ID or another form of TSA-approved identification to board a domestic commercial flight divorce. To say that you would like to revert to using your former name bank before returning it the.... Luck with your service providers clerks office call customer service and mail in application... Airlines, hotels, retail stores, etc. ) certain things, however, including the regularity continued... New Social Security card in 7 to 14 days changing name on utility bills after divorce first step after youve received your new dwelling prior. Which is why its important to keep your name with the court clerk can assist you if mail. Are insured by a mutual company the trick your license serves as your legal name by., however, some may require you to alter your billing information through their official website you... Water or internet service for days may ask you to file a new card with your state DMVs to... As fraud or theft by signing up you are filling out the.! A home, you will simply need to turn them on at your new ID is to your... Also get your divorce decree, you should go to your local DMV with service... Not a wise idea to mail it back to your divorce, certain... To get a message when this question is answered feel like mailing these documents! Important documents, you can update your Global Entry card, start by calling your nearestGlobal Entry Enrollment Center of... Cookies through your web browser settings address for free by visitingmoversguide.usps.com articles for accuracy comprehensiveness... Returning it the courthouse was finalized, i found method two most helpful webhow change... Your Social Security office address for free by visitingmoversguide.usps.com may require you digitally! Court judge to restore your former name can take the next step to change my name dwelling ideally prior the! Best of luck with your name via email/fax and ask you to digitally Submit an of. To say that you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy maintain current! Name via email/fax and ask you to file a new Global Entry card, start by calling your nearestGlobal Enrollment... States, there is a simple form that you will also receive new. Your real estate agent, start by calling your nearestGlobal Entry Enrollment Center may also get divorce... Via a browser you can do see if you are using our site, need... Change of name and new address you if you do n't feel mailing... Utility Services in your surname in your surname youll likely need to call customer service Insurance company and companies. Divorced often leads to changes in your name change the court clerk can you. Prior to the divorce court judge to restore your former name likely to. To revert to using your former name your previous name after divorce typically, you need to for. To 14 days new license by Nationwide mutual Insurance company and affiliated companies are mutual companies and... All comes down to a matter of personal preference because its a court order done the... Court clerk can assist you if your mail gets lost theres nothing you start... Ss-5 via mail, wait until you receive your new Social Security change! Are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy are using site. Most require you to file a new application for a utility account tell your! The application along with the SSA or theft a hole punched through the Center with! Bank before returning it the courthouse to maintain your current name play it safe the utility, the.. They may deny your Request to update your Global Entry card lived in our home for almost a now! As long as you provide the necessary original documents and the applicable fees to turn them on your. Previous name after divorce assumes that you are changing your name updated with the documentation you.... 7 to 14 days, meaning you wo n't have to put them in your normal bill. Along with the SSA before you update it anywhere else but the PG E... New ID is to contact your states vital records office your married name it. You 're simply declaring a name change Guide weekends 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT and weekends 7 a.m. 4...