Did you just get a divorce and are now thinking of changing your last name? Well, this is a pretty challenging task given the huge amount of paperwork and legal processes involved. Here in this guide, we are going to walk you through some easy ways in which you can change your name after a divorce.
Change your Name During the Divorce Decree
If your divorce has not yet been finalized, you can ask the judge who is handling your case to restore your old name during the divorce decree. The judge can pass an order to change your name in the divorce decree and this will lead your last name to be immediately changed to the one prior to your marriage.
Amend the Divorce Decree
If your divorce has been finalized by the court, some states allow you to seek permission from the judge to have your last name changed. Once your name has been changed in the divorce decree, you should not forget to take a copy of the judge’s order.
File a Name Change Petition
Some states allow divorcees to fill out a name-change petition after the divorce is through. You simply need to file the petition to have your last name changed and your request will be granted. Divorce Mediator can help you fill out and file such a petition as per the requirements.
Change Your Name Online
You can change your name online after taking a divorce by filing a form that you can easily get online. All you need to do is download the form, fill it out and file it at your local court. After that, you will be required to follow the required procedure to have your name changed. If you are not clear on how to proceed with the change of name online, you can seek help from a Divorce Mediation specialist.
Decide Your Name and File a Petition
Usually, it is assumed that you will start using your former last name again after getting a divorce. Depending on whether you are looking to change your entire name or are just looking to change your last name, there is a chance that different provisions and procedures will apply. But for both cases, you would be required to file a petition for a change of name.
Update Legal And Financial Documents
When you have legally changed your last name, the next important step is to change your name on your legal and financial documents. Here are some of the important documents that recommend you get updated.
- ID Card: First of all, you’ll need to go and submit an application to have your name changed on your ID Card.
- Driving License: In order to be able to drive using the same license, you’ll be required to change your name on your driving license.
- Bank Accounts: You can visit the nearby branch of your bank and get your name changed in the bank’s records with the help of supporting documents such as your updated Identity Card and the court’s ruling in this regard. In case you are retiring soon, you may also need to consult an estate planning attorney to handle your wills and finances.
- Mortgage Documents: You can call a customer care representative of your mortgage bank to get their records updated.
- Credit Cards: For your credit cards, you can try to change your last name online.
- Passport: Your passport is among the most important documents that you’ll need to update as soon as possible. Immediately visit the nearest passport office and update your new name on your passport if you want to travel overseas without any hurdle.
Update Other Remaining Accounts
After you have your legal documents updated, you can proceed to change your name on your remaining accounts. These accounts include:
- Utility bills
- Monthly subscriptions like HBO, Netflix, etc.
- Internet Connection
- Cell Phone
- Email Accounts and Social Media Accounts.
Update Your Name with the USPS
After getting a divorce, it is most likely that you will change your place of residence. If you do move out of your previous place, you must get your new name updated with the USPS. This way there will be no danger of your mail ending up in your ex’s postbox.
We hope you have a clear picture of how you can go about changing your name after divorce. Feel free to share your ideas and ask questions if you have any in the comments section below.
