How to Change Your Legal Name on Documents
- 1). Petition the court for a change of name and get an order reflecting the name you would like listed on the documents. If you wish to change your legal name because of marriage, divorce or adoption, you may use your certified decree as proof that you have changed your legal name, but in the case of voluntary name changes, you will need to make a special request with your local court.
- 2). Obtain photo identification reflecting your new legal name. One you have a court order showing that your name has been legally changed, you will need to obtain a driver's license, state ID card or passport reflecting your new name.
- 3). Get a new Social Security Card. To change your legal name on certain documents, you will need to have a Social Security Card that reflects your new name. You can request a new Social Security Card in person or by phone from the Social Security Administration.
- 4). Make a written request to change your legal name on the documents. In many cases, you will need to request the name change on the documents in writing and explain that you are doing so because you changed your legal name.
- 5). Verify to all entities that you are not changing your legal name for fraudulent purposes. You may be asked to explain the reason for your name change and confirm that you are not changing your name on documents to evade your legal obligations.
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