Are you thinking of changing your name after divorce? You are not alone.
Divorce is a life-altering event that often brings many changes, one of which is your name. Changing a name after the divorce is your legal right. Sometimes, it can be as important as getting the right spousal support or child custody.
But, whether you are getting a divorce without a court appearance or through traditional in-court proceedings, you can change your name only after it is finalized. If your divorce is already finalized or nearly finalized, this quick guide will help you.
Let’s understand the ins and outs of changing a name after divorce.
1. Understand Your Name Change Options
The first step in changing your name after divorce is knowing your options. The most common practice is restoring your maiden name. However, if you have held other surnames, you may use them as well. The choice is yours. If you want to adopt a new name, you need to file this application separately, as it’s a different process outside of divorce. Also, when picking a new name, you should consider how this name change will affect your personal and professional identity.
2. What Should You Do Before Changing Your Name?
You can start the process of filing for a name change only if you have the divorce decree. Be sure your divorce is legally completed and obtain the decree from the court. Even if you are getting a divorce without a court appearance, you still need to obtain the decree. You will need it to file your application for the name change.
Next, you will need to update your current documents to reflect this change. You will have to change your legal status from married to single. This includes your driver’s license, passport, social security, and other IDs. Keep these documents up-to-date. It will help you change your name without any hiccups.
3. Gather the Required Documents
For a name change after divorce, you will need:
- Divorce Decree: This is the official document from the court finalizing your divorce. It is more than just a formality. You can still get a divorce without a court appearance. However, you will need to collect your divorce decree from the courthouse where you applied for the divorce. It is usually the district court in your area. You can reach out to the court clerk’s office for more information.
- Government-Issued Identification: In addition to the decree, you will need government-issued IDs, such as your driver’s license or passport. These documents will help prove your identity when changing your name.
Keep these documents ready.
4. File Your Name Change Petition
Typically, your divorce decree will already include a name change order. If it does, you don’t need to file a separate name change petition with the court. If it does not, or if you decide to change your name to something new, you will need to file a separate petition.
The process may vary depending on your state. But it generally involves filling out a few forms and paying a filing fee. In Florida, you may also need to appear for a hearing, depending on your county. During the hearing, the judge may ask why you want to change your name. Your name change after the divorce will need the seal of approval from the court.
5. Publish Your Notice of Name Change (If Required)
Florida does not require you to publish a notice of your name change in a local newspaper, but it is recommended for public figures, even just locally. This step declares your intention to change the name.
6. Update Your Identifications and Records
After the legal change, you’ll need to update your identification and records. This involves updating your:
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- Social Security card
- Any state-issued identification
In addition to this, you will need to update your bank accounts, insurance, credit cards, and other personal accounts. Make a list of all your accounts that might need to reflect this change. Although time-consuming, this is a necessary process. Change your name on every account or credit card without fail.
7. Notify Different Government Agencies
Your married name will be everywhere, including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and voter registration. You will need to notify these agencies of your name change. Remember that updating your driver’s license will not update your vehicle registration and other essential records. You will need to apply for these separately. Visit your nearest DMV office for details.
8. Inform Your Employer, School, and Other Institutions
It is also necessary to inform your employer, school, and other professional institutions. Your employer will need to update your payroll information and employee records. Your children’s school will need to update their records, including emergency contacts. So, notify them about your name change as soon as possible.
Get A Divorce Without a Court Appearance with Our Online Services
Changing your name after divorce is your legal right. Whether you want to restore your maiden name or another previous one, this is a multi-step process involving both legal and personal changes. These guidelines will help you kickstart the process. However, don’t hesitate to seek professional legal advice.
That’s where Untying the Knot can help. Our online services can help you get a divorce without ever stepping foot in a courtroom. We make this process as smooth as possible. Call 833-637-1729 today or check out our online services for more information.