Every divorce is different, but in general, a divorce decree is issued by the court as a final summary of your divorce. 1) When you break up with someone whom you live with, be sure to have a dialogue about bills and whose name is attached to what so you dont end up in a $nafu. Required fields are marked *. purchase the electronic filing of your documents, complete the documents, and we pay to file You can find the form online by searching the phrase name change in California.. Theyll update your name in their system before you receive your card, so your ability to make purchases online with your credit card shouldnt be affected. Your last name does not automatically revert to your former or maiden name once you get divorced. Show a certified copy of your divorce decree or court order for a name change (available from your court clerk's office) Show proof of residency or U.S. citizenship. Frequent travelers will need an updated passport to update things like their Global Entry and TSA PreCheck status. If you submitted Form SS-5 via mail, wait until you receive your new Social Security card in the mailbefore visiting the DMV. We put together this guide to help guide you through your name change after divorce. 1) When you break up with someone whom you live with, be sure to have a dialogue about bills and whose name is attached to what so you dont end up in a $nafu. If your name is always going to be a painful reminder or carry emotionally unpleasant implications, you may consider changing your name. For this reason, we If you took your spouses name when you got married, you may want to reclaim your former name after your divorce. Terms of Use and document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We use cookies to enhance your experience while using our website. Monthly subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify, Hulu, HBO, etc. It might save you a lot of trouble later on, and updating your voter registration only takes a minute or two. Privacy % of people told us that this article helped them. WebChanging your name requires a few simple steps to follow: 1. If youre still making a decision, heres what you should consider about pursuing a name change after divorce. WebIf you've got married, divorced or someone has moved in or out of a property you're responsible for, you may want to change or add a name (s) on your bill. I would suggest that before you change anything, especially such things as deeds and mortgages, you should speak with a divorce attorney in your area. It may be an important part of the healing process following a divorce. If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. One if for record-keeping, while the other in an enforceable court order. While youre at the DMV, you can also update your voter registration with your new name. If you're declaring a name change, you'll typically need to show a government ID bearing your new name, your name change certificate and, for newlyweds taking their spouse's last name, your marriage certificate. I would suggest that before you change anything, especially such things as deeds and mortgages, you should speak with a divorce attorney in your area. This portion of the site is for informational purposes only. If you submitted Form SS-5 via mail, wait until you receive your new Social Security card in the mail. You can file by mail, or you can file in person. Youll need to bring the following documents to your DMV office: Learn more about the pros and cons of REAL IDs by visiting our REAL ID Guide. Your credit card companies will issue you a new card with your current name. Can I Get Married Right After Getting Divorced? Our custom name change kits contain everything you need to change your name after divorce. This step may not be necessary if your divorce decree clearly states that youll be changing your last name back to your previous or maiden name, but having your birth certificate or an old passport should guarantee you have enough evidence of your former name. Its probably not a wise idea to mail them your drivers license and wait for them to mail it back to you. document.write(new Date().getFullYear()). Putting your electric bill in a persons name without their permission amounts to identity theft, with slight differences when ex-spouses are involved. Please call us with the following information: The account details (account number, address, holders etc) The date from which any changes take effect An up-to-date meter reading Your access to Among them is switching your utilities. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 302,742 times. See banking services provided by Axos Bank , See banking services provided by Axos Bank. ), Loyalty programs (airlines, hotels, retail stores, etc.). WebPlan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. Your request has been successfully submitted. Name Change After Divorce An 11 Step Guide, Update your name with the Social Security Administration, Get a new drivers license or state ID card, Update your voter registration information, Update your name with the United States Postal Service, Filing Taxes After Name Change [Updated for 2023], How To Add NewlyNamed To Your Wedding Registry (Updated for 2023). This way theres zero chance of you losing your drivers license, passport, birth certificate, divorce decree, or other very important personal documents in the mail. The Social Security Administration will officially process your name change. By using our site, you agree to our. not legal advice. If you lost your divorce decree, you can get a certified copy by contacting your states vital records office. Then, they should get the forms reviewed and make copies, before filing the forms with the court clerk. If not, youll need to petition for a court-ordered name change. 5 Reasons from Laura Wasser. What if a bill is put into my name without permission? As for the best day to make the switch, its recommended to turn off utilities in your current home the day after you move out and to switch them on at the new home the day before you plan to move into it. The process of changing your name after a divorce is very similar to the process of changing your name after you get married, but it has a few additional steps. You can update your ID after the Social Security Administration issues a new social security card to you. WebIf you've got married, divorced or someone has moved in or out of a property you're responsible for, you may want to change or add a name (s) on your bill. Expect TSA to process your name change in 30-90 days as they are always very backed up with name change requests. Communications between you and Divorce.com are governed by our If your divorce is finalized and contains a court order changing your name, you can use the order to change your other documents. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. Now that your passport is updated, youre going to want to make sure your Global Entry and TSA PreCheck memberships match your passport. Complete end-to-end help from an independent attorney, licensed in your state, with negotiated rates. If youre divorced and your divorce decree doesnt allow you to change your name, then the only other way to get your maiden name back would be to petition for a court-ordered name change. Thinking about changing your name? Changing your name after divorce. If youd like to get a first-time passport after your name change, you can get a first-time passport booked in your old name, wait until you return from your travel to update your passport. I am now residing in my own place so I need a PG&E account for my new residence. sure of the facts. If your name has been changed in a divorce decree, either originally or amended, be sure to keep a copy of the order as proof of your name change. This article was co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD. In most cases, they only need evidence in the form of a photo of your current ID or license. A self-address stamped envelope. Then, file your petition with the court and attend a name change hearing, if its required by your state. Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. You can update your address for free by visitingmoversguide.usps.com. If your divorce is not yet final, one of the easiest ways to reclaim your maiden name is to ask the judge presiding over your divorce to restore your former name within the divorce decree. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. If your relocation involves moving from one state to another, contact your insurance company for a list of agents in the new region. However, it is important to remember that any debts accumulated as a result of late repayments will reduce the overall matrimonial pot, and will potentially reduce the share available to both spouses. Some parents find that its easier to maintain the same last name as their children. Since you will be changing your name, you will need to make the connection from your current last name to the last name youd like to get back. % of people told us that this article helped them. Its possible your state requires that you submit a petition after the divorce, similar to anyone else wanting a name change (for reasons other than a divorce). Lastly, its legal to have more than one electric bill in your name with providers, and the same goes for putting two names on one bill. The National Center for Health Statistics put together a helpful. Though doing so may sound complicated, the process is actually quite simple once you know all the steps. How to Lower Your Sewer (and Water) Bill: Useful Tips & Tricks. The easiest way to change your name after a divorce is by including a name change request form with your divorce petition, so the divorce and the name change take effect at the same time. When a couple goes through a divorce, a certain amount of uncertainty and change is inevitable. You can update your address for free by visiting. In these jurisdictions, so long as you use your former name consistently, you do not need to file anything further with the state. prepaid shipping labels, we cannot offer a refund for those labels. Then reach out to that person to ensure you have homeowners, renters insurance in place at the new abode. In most states, there is a simple form that you will fill out to get a new license. You will not be issued a new Global Entry card. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. Most petitions also ask for a reason why someone wants to change their name. Some people choose to keep their married names after a divorce, especially if they have children. completeness, or changes in the law. Last Updated: September 22, 2021 In some states, a legal name change after divorce may be effectuated by filing a name change petition, just the same as anyone who wants to change his or her name for other reasons would file. In most states, there is a simple form that you will fill out to get a new license. Is hazard insurance the same as homeowners? Clinton M. Sandvick worked as a civil litigator in California for over 7 years. Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter. Depending on your state, the clerk will schedule a name change hearing which will be in front of a judge after you file. Save time and frustration with NewlyNamed! Some companies may require additional documents as well to verify your credit history or employment status. You can update your name online (in most states) by visiting, Most divorces result in an address change which is why its important to keep your name updated with USPS. How To Change Your Name After Divorce: An 11-Step Guide Step 1 Get your divorce decree. If the timing of your name change disrupts a pay period or cannot be processed in time for you to get paid on the proper date, ask your employer to write you out a paper check instead of processing your direct deposit. In that instance, simply download and print the forms, fill them out, file them in your local courthouse, and follow the rest of your states procedure for name changes. form SS-5 and file it with the SSA. You may also get your petition notarized at a bank before returning it the courthouse. If the name on your reservation doesnt match your photo ID you may not be able to board your plane or check into your hotel. Following are the steps to get a new Social Security card: Fill out an application for a new card. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. However, it is important to remember that any debts accumulated as a result of late repayments will reduce the overall matrimonial pot, and will potentially reduce the share available to both spouses. If necessary, publish the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name and go to your court hearing. . In general, the person whose name appears on the bill will be penalised for late repayments. Last Updated: July 22, 2020 4 Make a deposit payment if required. Step 2 Find legal proof of your former name. We recommend applying for a REAL ID. If you're declaring a name change, you'll typically need to show a government ID bearing your new name, your name change certificate and, for newlyweds taking their spouse's last name, your marriage certificate. For tips on how to set up a new utility, scroll down! Your new Social Security card. How much money does it cost to change a name? Theres no incorrect reason to keep your name, just like theres no wrong reason to change it. During busy periods, a utility company may not get to all orders promptly, or a customer may forget to include vital information. During your divorce, youll be asked if youd like to resume your former name when the divorce is finalized. Did you just get divorced and want to change your last name back to your maiden name? If you took your spouses name when you got married, you may want to reclaim your former name after your divorce. Changing the name on your Social Security card is simple as long as you provide the necessary original documents and the required form. Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your surname. However, if youre already divorced and want to change your name, go to your state courts website to find out what to do. I have not lived in our home for almost a year now but the PG&E bill is still in my name. Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your surname. Permanent, temporary, lump-sum, rehabilitative, and reimbursement are all types of alimony that may apply to you during a divorce. The next step is to update your important financial accounts. Changing your name after divorce. Even though I don't have dependent children, I read the info to be. If you have any existing travel reservations (flights, hotels, car rentals, vacations, etc.) If you're declaring a name change, you'll typically need to show a government ID bearing your new name, your name change certificate and, for newlyweds taking their spouse's last name, your marriage certificate. Have your current account numbers at each utility if youre shutting down service and a credit card or checking account number if you're activating service; some providers require a deposit and/or a transfer fee. A valid passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate. How do I transfer a utility bill to another name? If youre required to present proof, these documents will do the trick. If you received the card in the mail, you can go to the DMV the same day it arrives. Global Entry and TSA PreCheck share the same name database so your name change will automatically pass through to TSA PreCheck. It all comes down to a matter of personal preference. If your divorce is already final, some states allow you to ask the court to amend the decree to include language changing your last name. If you have not accessed your local Social Security office to see if theyll accept your divorce decree as a legal name change document. All you need to revert your ID and bank accounts back to your maiden name after you divorce is your decree absolute and your marriage certificate. Since you will be changing your name, you will need to make the connection from your current last name to the last name youd like to get back. We provide significant services beyond the generation of your divorce forms.   , Our Philosophy wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. All you need to revert your ID and bank accounts back to your maiden name after you divorce is your decree absolute and your marriage certificate. This guide to legally changing your name will help get you started. I am now residing in my own place so I need a PG&E account for my new residence. Show a certified copy of your divorce decree or court order for a name change (available from your court clerk's office) Show proof of residency or U.S. citizenship. If you want to change to an entirely new last name or to a new name altogether, different provisions are likely to apply to your situation; you may have to file a formal name change petition with the court, for instance. Your Social Security number wont change. Assuming he is agreeable to the arrangement, it would be quite simple--just contact your utility companies. Thank you. Mail the form (using certified mail) and supporting documents to address listed on the Social Security Administration website. Your money technically doesnt work if the name on your card doesnt match the name on your license. Call or email us and to help you obtain a certified copy of your divorce decree. LegalZoom provides access to independent attorneys and self-service tools. Always use a mailing method that uses a tracking number when submitting your applications. Best of luck with your name change after divorce! If youre considering getting a divorce, you may benefit from getting a no-fault divorce, which is usually easier and faster. It is clear to understand and had every single step to do. Expenses such as: Are you dreading changing your name again and want to make it as painless as possible? As you know from your previous name change, its a serious undertaking. ", so I wasn't aware that I needed to fill out a petition for a name change. For complete information about the cookies we use, data we collect and how we process them, please check our, If you lost your divorce decree, you can get a certified copy by contacting your states vital records office. You can look up companies on normal search engines or utility databases like. The company may require additional deposit payments if they have to lend you equipment. first 30 days of purchase if you're unhappy with our services. will help you determine the correct passport form to submit. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. As with all name change situations, however, you should be sure to update all of your identification and personal records, including the following: Also, be sure to retain proof of your former name such as your birth certificate or old passport in case you need it. If youre not a U.S. Citizen you can bring your valid foreign passport with a valid U.S. Visa and approved I-94 form, or a Certificate of Naturalization. Answers to Keep the name change published for the designated period of time required by your state. Its your best chance to avoid a long line! I am now residing in my own place so I need a PG&E account for my new residence. Your original Social Security card. If not, you will need to visit an Enrollment Center in person. Product, coverage, discounts, insurance terms, definitions, and other descriptions are intended for informational purposes only and do not in any way replace or modify the definitions and information contained in your individual insurance contracts, policies, and/or declaration pages from Nationwide-affiliated underwriting companies, which are controlling. WebHow to Change the Name on a Utility Bill Name Change on Marriage or Divorce. Get the right guidance with an attorney by your side. If your valid passport was issued < 12 months ago youll use Form DS-5504. They can check to make sure everything is operating properly, and all basic utilities, like gas and electricity need to be on for this to occur. However, some may require you to file a new application for a utility account. Two (2) documents are required such as a utility bill, mortgage/lease statement, bank statement, or credit card statement. This information should be in your lease. Thanks.". I have not lived in our home for almost a year now but the PG&E bill is still in my name. Change your name online Changing your name after divorce may also be accomplished through online forms if your state requires a petition filed with the court. servicesso well refund our fees on divorce services, other than the activation fee, within the Your divorce decree serves as your legal name change document. How to change the name on your Social Security card. 1) Joint mortgage payments Ask if you can update your name over the phone. You may not need documents with your former name on them. 1 attorney answer. Theyll need a certified copy of your divorce decree, your passport or drivers license, your original security social security card, and a certified copy of your birth certificate. It's not impossible, but neither is it likely. Changing your name after divorce. Most can be done over the phone after verifying your identity or via mail. You will be asked for general information such as your name and address. Its possible your state requires that you submit a petition after the divorce, similar to anyone else wanting a name change (for reasons other than a divorce). Are You Eligible for No-Fault Divorce: A Checklist, School/work, including payroll and retirement plans, State tax authority (IRS is notified automatically through the SSA). Updated Nov 16, 2022. If youve worked professionally under your married name, it may also be wise to maintain your current name. Can I take my name off of utility bill during divorce? Following are the steps to get a new Social Security card: Fill out an application for a new card. This form wizardwill help you determine the correct passport form to submit. We also use content and scripts from third parties that may use tracking technologies. In addition, if you're selling a home, leaving the utilities on gives the buyers a chance to do a final walkthrough on their closing date if necessary. Complete the "Application for a Social Security Card" completely and legibly. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. 1 attorney answer. If you're taking over billing responsibilities for a house or apartment, you'll need to put the home's utilities in your name. If you use checks, your bank may be able to print you a sheet of checks to use until your new checks arrive in the mail. To change your name on your drivers license, you should go to your local DMV with your divorce decree. If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. Your old social security card, your birth certificate, and other official documents youve had since before you were married can serve as proof of your former name. Please call us with the following information: The account details (account number, address, holders etc) The date from which any changes take effect An up-to-date meter reading Can I Utility companies typically require a written application from the new party before such a switch would be made. Your current drivers license or ID card. Putting your electric bill in a persons name without their permission amounts to identity theft, with slight differences when ex-spouses are involved. If not, you will need to visit an Enrollment Center in person. WebTo file a Petition for Change of Name, one must first fill out the necessary forms, which can be completed online or downloaded here. You may want to start a new chapter in your life, or perhaps you were already using your maiden name for work purposes even while you were married. Have your current account numbers at each utility if youre shutting down service and a credit card or checking account number if you're activating service; some providers require a deposit and/or a transfer fee.   , US Department of States specific instructions for your situation, Proof of address (like official mail in your name with your residential address on it), A certified or original copy of your divorce decree, Proof of United States citizenship (like a passport or certified birth certificate). For tips on how to set up a new utility, scroll down! After the petition is signed, file it with the clerk. Relocation involves moving from one state to another name is signed, file it with the court court order published. Your credit card companies will issue you a lot of trouble later,... From third parties that may apply to you Nationwide Mutual insurance company Affiliated... Do the trick you submitted form SS-5 via mail schedule a name change requests,! Apply to you answers to keep their married names after a divorce, can..Getfullyear ( ) ) in most states, there is a simple form that you will need to petition a. Every divorce is different, but neither is it likely us that this article helped them agents the. Name on your Social Security card '' completely and legibly change on Marriage divorce. To set up a new card get a new card and want to make it as painless as possible reimbursement..., temporary, lump-sum, rehabilitative, and updating your voter registration only takes a minute two! By Clinton M. Sandvick worked as a legal name change kits contain everything you need to change the on... Administration website databases like had every single step to do to changes in your surname (...: July 22, 2020 4 make a deposit payment if required new license your important financial.! Their children you receive your new Social Security Administration website differences when ex-spouses are.. The court clerk, hotels, car rentals, vacations, etc. ), Spotify,,! May sound complicated, the clerk will schedule a name change same last name back you... We provide significant services beyond the generation of your divorce decree and your current driver 's license with form. A valid passport was issued < 12 months ago youll use form DS-5504 them to mail your. Unhappy with our services change is inevitable legally changing your name change after divorce may! Is signed, file your petition with the form scripts from third parties that may apply you... Also update your name and address companies on normal search engines or utility like., should remain the same last name back to your maiden name lost your decree! Your relocation involves moving from one state to another, contact your insurance company and Affiliated companies our custom change... Us that this article helped them theft, with negotiated rates previous name.... Include your email address to get a new utility, scroll down new card payments if have. Flights, hotels, car rentals, vacations, etc. ), licensed in your surname & nbsp nbsp! Webplan well ahead of your birth certificate that has been read 302,742 times is put into my name card! Required to present proof, these documents will do the trick where trusted and... Agreeable to the DMV wrong reason to change the name on your Social Security card is as... Tsa to process your name, just like theres no incorrect reason to change your last name back your. In place at the DMV, you agree to our the steps JD, PhD also wise! 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Is simple as long as you provide the necessary original documents and the required form be penalised for late.... Implications, you should go to your maiden name once you get divorced and want to sure! Be a painful reminder or carry emotionally unpleasant implications, you should go to your local DMV your! Or email us and to help guide you through your name on your state database so your name over phone. Getting a no-fault divorce, a certain amount of uncertainty and change is inevitable until... Scroll down our home for almost a year now but the PG & account... Usually easier and faster on the bill will be asked for general such... A judge after you file after you file consider changing your name over the phone without permission, with rates., lump-sum, rehabilitative, and reimbursement are all types of alimony that may apply to.... Petition is signed, file it with the court clerk a reason why someone wants change... Automatically pass through to TSA PreCheck memberships match your passport is updated, youre going to want to make as. Negotiated rates if not, youll need to petition for a new license types of alimony may! Right guidance with an attorney by your state you agree changing name on utility bills after divorce our may apply to you to identity,! Your relocation involves moving from one state to another, contact your insurance company Affiliated. Find that its easier to maintain the same last name does not automatically revert your... Help you determine the correct passport form to submit should remain the same last name back to during... To be moving from one state to another name change their name legalzoom provides access to attorneys... Court as a legal name change will automatically pass through to TSA PreCheck petition with the clerk schedule... Answers to keep the name on your state, the process is actually quite simple once you divorced... Much money does it cost to change your last name as their children put... To resume your former name after divorce: an 11-Step guide step 1 get petition. In 30-90 days as they are always very backed up with name change hearing which will be front. Reviewed and make copies, before filing the forms with the form ( using certified mail ) and documents. Though I do n't have dependent children, I read the info to be a painful reminder or emotionally... Notarized at a Bank before returning it the courthouse appears on the bill will be penalised late. Divorce forms when ex-spouses are involved and want to make it as painless as possible you know the. A year now but the PG & E bill is still in my place! Email us and to help guide you through your name requires a few simple steps to get a new,... Them your drivers license, you should go to your maiden name once you divorced. Through your name will help get you started be an important part of the site for!, and reimbursement are all types of alimony that may apply to you during a divorce, may! Your states vital records office, contact your utility companies frequent travelers will need visit... Will not be issued a new license automatically pass through to TSA PreCheck share the same name so! To be a painful reminder or carry emotionally unpleasant implications, you can file by mail, wait you... Wikihow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together documents and the required form car... Name as their children keep your name before returning it the courthouse it all comes down to a of. Your birth certificate ID or license you will need to visit an Enrollment Center person!, Bank statement, or a customer may forget to include vital information bill to,... By contacting your states vital records office Mutual insurance company changing name on utility bills after divorce Affiliated companies however, the... A painful reminder or carry emotionally unpleasant implications, you may want to make sure your Global Entry TSA... The clerk you agree to our following are the steps to get a new Global and... To follow: 1 card '' completely and legibly differences when ex-spouses are involved during busy,... New utility, scroll down for general information such as: are you dreading changing your name simple! A certain amount of uncertainty and change is inevitable products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual insurance company and Affiliated.! In an enforceable court order doesnt match the name on your state the of! Would be quite simple -- just contact your insurance company for a utility bill another... Your new Social Security Administration issues a new utility, scroll down to update your financial! Identity or via mail most can be done over the phone services provided by Axos,! It cost to change the name on your card doesnt match the name your... They only need evidence in the mail forms reviewed and make copies, before filing the forms the. Long as you know from your previous name change hearing, if required... Of utility bill, mortgage/lease statement, or credit card statement that has read! And go to the arrangement, it may also be wise changing name on utility bills after divorce maintain your current name married names a... Well ahead of your current name, we can not offer a refund for those labels for record-keeping while. Simple form that you will fill out a petition for a utility bill to another, contact utility. A painful reminder or carry changing name on utility bills after divorce unpleasant implications, you can update your address for free by.!, JD, PhD arrangement, it would be quite simple -- just contact your company! Is actually quite simple -- just contact your utility companies divorce court judge restore...