Changing your name: 6 things to think about

Not everyone likes paperwork. Especially when it has to do when changing your name! 

We know what you’re thinking -Sure, I can be creative and innovative. But knowing laws, the legal procedure and filling all the documents? Excuse me, I need a break! 

But don’t worry, there’s a way you can resolve this.

We have jotted down some of the simplest legal advice for you to know exactly what you’re going to need. Keep reading and you’ll find out!

Changing your name: Keep It Non-Controversial!

With a few exceptions, you can choose any name you want. You cannot name yourself after an alive celebrity or famous person because this could be misleading. You cannot select any trademarked name, a numerical, a punctuation mark, or something offensive. Also, you are not allowed to change the name for committing fraud, evading law enforcement, or getting yourself free from paying the debt.

The Best time to change the Surname/Last Name

The best time for changing your last name is when you are getting married or divorced. According to the laws, at the time of marriage or divorce, a person does not need a court order to change their last name. All they need to do is write the new name on the marriage certificate, and then it will be acceptable at legal places.

The need for a Lawyer?

Technically, you do not need to hire a lawyer to get your name changed, but if you did not want to go through all the procedures of the court, you have to hire a lawyer. And why not? It’ll be much easier to have someone guide you!

The process of filing a petition for changing your name at the court is straightforward and easy, but a lawyer will make sure that there are no obstacles in your way.

Fee and Charges

In most of the places, for filing the petition for changing the name in court, you need to pay a fee that may vary with your location. In case you are getting married, you will need extra copies of your marriage certificate to use as proof of your new last name.

Announcing your new name

Once you have completed all the documents, filled the deed poll, and have successfully changed your name, then you have to inform government bodies, business, family, and friends about your new name. First, notify the Social Security Administration about your new name, then the IRS and DMV, and after that, inform your bank, credit card companies, utility companies, and loan companies too. After all this, update your new name in all your identification documents like driving license or passport.

Announcing the new name to everyone can be fun but do not get too excited and only declare the new name when you have the complete documents from the court. 

Local Research

Once you have gone through all the points, you are almost good to go, but before blindly following this, do some local research. As we know that different regions have different rules, so it will be great if you go through them, and then you be ready with all the intel you need for changing your name.

So above was a small guide focusing on some fundamental points, which will be helpful. Usually, you may be overwhelmed by how long the process might seem to you. But it’s much easier when you know all the steps! Make sure that you’re sure about your decision – and the rest will be a cakewalk! Another good idea is to get in touch with someone who has already gone through the same process, so it’s simpler for you!