Name Change Petition

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Name Change Petition

A name change petition is a legal request filed with the court for a person to legally change their name. This form is typically required when changing a first or last name outside of marriage or divorce. States provide their own official form that individuals must submit to begin proceedings.

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Last updated January 7th, 2026

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A name change petition is a legal request filed with the court for a person to legally change their name. This form is typically required when changing a first or last name outside of marriage or divorce. States provide their own official form that individuals must submit to begin proceedings.

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Marriage and Divorce

Name Change After Marriage

Individuals may legally adopt their spouse’s surname when marrying. The new name can be provided on the marriage license application, which will appear on the marriage certificate.

Name Change After Divorce

To change a name after divorce, individuals may request to have their surname restored during the divorce proceedings. Their former name will appear on the divorce decree.

Passport and SSN Name Change

Official documents, such as a passport or Social Security card, can be updated by presenting proof of a name change to the appropriate office. Marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders are accepted forms of proof.

Eligibility Requirements

Specific eligibility requirements vary by state. The local court clerk can be contacted for region-specific criteria. In general, individuals must meet the following requirements:

  • Must be 18 or older
  • Must be a resident of the county where name change petition is filed
  • Cannot be required to register as a sex offender
  • Cannot be seeking name change for fraudulent purposes

How to Legally Change a Name

Step 1 – Prepare Forms

The individual must prepare the required forms, which typically include a petition of name change, notice of hearing, and order for name change. The petition may require notarization.

States may also require fingerprinting, background checks, or a cover sheet. The local court clerk can be contacted to verify which forms are needed.

Step 2 – File with Court

The prepared forms must be filed with the local court of the county where the individual resides. A filing fee is required. In some cases, filing may also be done online or by mail.

Step 3 – Publish Notice

The individual must publish the notice of hearing in a local newspaper circulating in the county where the petition was filed. Once the publication period ends, the newspaper will provide the individual with an affidavit of publication, which must be filed with the court.

Step 4 – Attend Hearing

The individual must attend their hearing on the date scheduled by the court clerk. The individual must explain the reason for the name change before a judge. If the request is approved, the judge will sign the order for name change.