If you waited 48 hours after changing your name with the SSA, you can bring your old Social Security card and a copy of the receipt the SSA gave you verifying your name change. Though doing so may sound complicated, the process is actually quite simple once you know all the steps. At the same time, contact your current insurance agent to stop coverage at your previous home before the new renter or owner occupies it. For tips on how to set up a new utility, scroll down! 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. LegalZoom.com, Inc. All rights reserved. All of the above assumes that you would like to revert to using your former name after divorce. How To Change Your Name After Divorce: An 11-Step Guide Step 1 Get your divorce decree. You may not need documents with your former name on them. 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. Such products, coverages, terms, and discounts may vary by state and exclusions may apply. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 302,742 times. Utility companies typically require a written application from the new party before such a switch would be made. How much money does it cost to change a name? 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. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review and approval. If you cant call the number on the back of your card. 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. In some cases, this can be straightforward. It will allow you to go back to your former/maiden name and youll use it throughout the entire name change after divorce process. Readmore. Thanks.". Last Updated: September 22, 2021 Most divorces result in an address change which is why its important to keep your name updated with USPS. document.write(new Date().getFullYear()). not sell blank forms. If you took your spouses name when you got married, you may want to reclaim your former name after your divorce. A self-address stamped envelope. Most can be done over the phone after verifying your identity or via mail. 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. Now that you have proof of your divorce, its time to let the government know that youre changing your legal name. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. Learn more about changing your name with the SSA by visiting our Social Security Name Change Guide. You can update your address for free by visitingmoversguide.usps.com. 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. Prove your age and identity. Your new Social Security card. To put a utility bill in your name, call or visit the utility provider and request a bill transfer. Typically, you can bring the form to your divorce hearing. This will make sure all your payroll information and employer-sponsored benefits (401k, health/dental/vision/disability/life insurance, etc.) Voting is important and your new name will have to be properly registered with your state to vote. Updated Nov 16, 2022. The goal is to turn off utilities, including gas, electric and water at your current residence shortly after closing the sale and/or departing the premises. 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. Your last name does not automatically revert to your former or maiden name once you get divorced. When a couple goes through a divorce, a certain amount of uncertainty and change is inevitable. 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. Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your surname. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. we'll process your refund. If youre considering getting a divorce, you may benefit from getting a no-fault divorce, which is usually easier and faster. 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. Gather necessary documentation that must accompany the form. The statements and opinions are the expression of the author, As with everything regarding divorce, state laws vary on this subject, but below youll find general information on how to change your name after a divorce. After the petition is signed, file it with the clerk. Must be a valid photo ID issued by a government agency such as a passport, drivers license, state-issued ID card, or U.S. Military ID. Always use a mailing method that uses a tracking number when submitting your applications. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. Most require you to call customer service and mail in supporting documentation. Don't make these common mistakes. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. 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. ), Loyalty programs (airlines, hotels, retail stores, etc.). Putting your electric bill in a persons name without their permission amounts to identity theft, with slight differences when ex-spouses are involved. Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. I have not lived in our home for almost a year now but the PG&E bill is still in my name. What if a bill is put into my name without permission? If you have both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, remember to update Global Entry first! Don't confuse a divorce decree with a divorce certificate. 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. your local Social Security office to see if theyll accept your divorce decree as a legal name change document. Affordable, flat rate legal advice from an independent attorney licensed in your state, to make sure you do everything right. 4 Make a deposit payment if required. If you decide to change your name after your divorce has been finalized, contact a legal representative for the process and fees that will be required. See banking services provided by Axos Bank , See banking services provided by Axos Bank. Readmore, Our full-spectrum online divorce platform provides simpler, faster, more peaceful optionsempowering our customers to chart their own destinies and seek modern solutions that avoid the pitfalls of an outdated system. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ac\/Change-Your-Name-Step-8-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Change-Your-Name-Step-8-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ac\/Change-Your-Name-Step-8-Version-3.jpg\/aid1474712-v4-728px-Change-Your-Name-Step-8-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"