To be fair, this is more of a change of address than a change of name, but the likelihood is that you are moving, so lets cover all our bases. As of 2019, it costs $11 to update your standard drivers license. This section of the Texas Property Code discusses a court's power to enforce a divorce decree. Depending on the package you choose, well even include the addresses and stamps, so all you have to do is slip the paperwork in the mail. It does require a bit of paperwork, but for your new life, its nothing but a short obstacle. Begin typing to search, use arrow keys to navigate, Request pricing and information from local Officiant vendors. You must pay a filing fee, and attach a card with your fingerprints to the petition. Name Change Changing your legal name in Texas can be simple, but you must follow the steps and meet the requirements. Fill out form Tell us about yourself (no sensitive data needed) 3. State-issued ID card. Update your name on your social media accounts. At Legally Name Change you can find the best lawyers to conduct online meetings for your name change after a marriage case. This makes sense for a couple of reasons. If you're recently married and ready to make a name change in Florida, here's a step-by-step guide to taking that next big step. For adults, this includes: A child's parent, legal guardian, or managing conservator may complete a name change on their behalf. 2. Once the newly married couple has obtained a certified marriage license, the length of the name change process will be determined by the agencies handling the name change, such as the Social Security office and the Texas Department of Public Safety. A legal document confirming the change of name, such as a court order or certified marriage certificate. While the steps to change your name after marriage aren't complex, it can take some time to work your way through the processbut don't let all the steps stress you out. How to file for a name change in Texas if you are 18 years or older and want to legally change your name. Divorce Mediation Texas Women want to change their last names after divorce for various reasons. Home Therefore, such a child must complete the Child's Consent to Name Change. Sole Custody in Texas Generally, banks will request proof of the name change, such as a certified marriage certificate or court order and identity documents (Social Security card or driver's license). Don't lose your miles! Its one less change that kids need to adapt to, and it simplifies things at school, the doctors office and elsewhere. in Communications and English from Niagara University. Copyright 2023 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Texas residents who have a driver's license or state-issued identification card must notify the Department of Public Safety (DPS) within 30 days if their personal information changes due to a move or legal name change. High Net Divorce Double, triple, quadruple check the spelling before filing the new name! When figuring out how to change your name after marriage in Texas, know that youll have to visit the DMV within 30 days of your official name change to make things official. The applicant's full name is required on all applications for
a driver license or identification certificate. After the marriage ceremony, the officiant who will sign the marriage license is responsible for filing the document with the clerk where the license was issued. Applicants must meet these requirements for address changes online: The same requirements apply to those filing by mail or in person. If you want a new and different name, you will need to go through a separate name change process. Paralegal prepare your legal petition for Texas Child Name Change with accuracy. Bonus to updating your address? If youre wondering how to change your name after divorce in Texas, check out common FAQs and our changing name after divorce checklist below. Example: Im officially Katie Ann Smith now! Let it reflect your personality, and mainly just have fun! } No Attorney-Client relationship is created by the use of these materials. Likewise, the length of the court processes will determine the duration of the name change. Here's exactly how to get a name change during COVID. Not only is it helpful to know how to legally change your name in Texas, you should also keep in mind that the process doesnt end there. Texas , Any driver who needs to change a name on their license must do so within 30 days of legally changing their name. (There are more details below.). Youll need to bring government-issued photo ID (a drivers license, state identification card, or passport will work) and know your social security numbers. Call or text us at. if (document.images) { Dont forget to also change your state ID, CDL, motorcycle license, or any other license registered with the Texas DMV. Luckily, through UpdateYourName.com, well make sure that your last name is updated wherever its needed. Proof of identification, e.g., a US passport, state identification card, and driver's license, Proof of age, such as birth certificate, adoption decree, or hospital record. Information about divorce in Texas with and without children. For a petition to change a child's name, the documents to take to court include: At the court, the petitioners will have to wait until the clerk calls their case. The USPS has made this very simple with an easy online process. The period required to complete a name change in Texas depends on the type of name change process, such as marriage, divorce, or court petition. Maybe youre in [], Have a name change question? Buy Now Changing your name doesn't have to be a huge pain. Social Security card Driver's license or state ID card Tax returns U.S. passport Naturalization certificate and certificate of citizenship Veterans benefits Voter registration Going to the court hearing and finalizing the petition: For adult name change petitions, petitioners must visit the court with the following documents: Completed Order Changing the Name of an Adult form with only the judge's signature unfilled, File-stamped copies of the Petition to Change the Name of an Adult together with all filed exhibits, Fingerprint cards for petitioners who filed their petitions electronically, Valid proof of identity, which may include a US passport, state-issued ID card, or driver's license, and, A completed Order Changing the Name of a Child form. This will only let you change your name back to one you used before your marriage. What Is a Minimoon and Why Do You Need One? Proof of your U.S. citizenship, such as your: U.S. birth certificate. While it may seem like a hassle to have to appear before a judge for a name change in Texas after divorce, appearing in court is required. Your officiant will likely do this for you, but its your responsibility to make sure that it gets done. update your name with the Texas DMV within 30 days of changing your name with the Social Security Administration. Click here to browse the talented vendors in your, Click here to get your voter registration application, Things to Consider When Purchasing a Home as a Newlywed, Everything You Need to Know As a Dallas First Time Home Buyer. For prison terms completed in another state or federal jail, petitioners must obtain copies of their discharge papers from the Department of Criminal Justice in such a state or the US Federal Bureau of Prisons. The petitioner must enter these numbers at the top of all documents. } Photo Source: Canva.com. Changing names after marriage may involve adopting a spouse's name or another name to reflect one's new marital status. Although its not required, you should. We have reviewed our content for bias and company-wide, we routinely meet with national experts to educate ourselves on better ways to deliver accessible content. Some counties offer both online and in-person application processes, while others provide only in-person services. Obtain your marriage certificate about 2 weeks after the wedding, If you and your spouse decide to make a new last name together or your last name is. The process is fairly straightforward and costs nothing. Changing a name after marriage is not a very complex task, though it does require the following technicalities. However, you still have to update your name with your personal organizations. After the change of your name after marriage, you have to update all your legal documents with the new name. Your marriage certificate holds enough importance to support your name change. We write helpful content to answer your questions from our expert network. For instance, if a criminal background check is necessary, petitioners will. Individuals who have just undergone a formal name change must update their bank account, debit card, credit card, and checkbook information to reflect their new names. } This applies to all policies, including Home or Renters Insurance, Vehicle Insurance, Disaster Insurance, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, and Long-term Care Insurance. Proof of your identity, such as your: U.S. driver's license. At what age can a child decide which parent to live with? All rights reserved. Once youve received your marriage certificate and gathered the proper documents, the Social Security Administration is the first government entity with whom you must register your new last name. For the best guidance as to how to change your name legally after marriage, anywhere in Texas, Legally Name Change is the right place to be at. Either way, were here to help simplify the process of changing your name in Texas and help you go from Miss to Mrs. name change services for insurance agents and adjusters, Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs, Information on Suit Affecting the Family Relationship, Automated Online Interview for Adult Name Change, Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending, A government-issued identification document, such as a state identification card, driver's license, or US passport, The Social Security numbers of the couple, Send the form together with a photocopy of a government-issued ID, such as a US passport or driver's license, to the, Must file the petition for name change in their county of residence, Must not have a felony conviction. The Reason for Your Name Change in Texas and Why it Matters There are three reasons for. Read more about our editorial standards. In Texas, the request to amend must occur at least 30 days prior to your trial date if you want to get a name change after divorce Texas. Persons should also register a formal name change with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services using Form I-9. If you simply go into the office, its much faster. // LiaJavaInput Legally Name Change has the best marriage attorneys which help you legally Change Your Name After Marriage. IF REQUESTING A NAME CHANGE DURING DIVORCE: Make sure the approved name change is included in your Final Decree of Divorce and request a certified copy of your Final Decree of Divorce from the County Clerks office in the County where you divorced. This is a super easy way to help people start updating their contact information and all you have to do is share it with your contacts after you update it on your phone. that will require you going into a local branch. There are legal procedures and requirements which must be fulfilled before a court hearing can be set. To file a petition for a name change, you must be at least 18 years of age. First, you will need to have your name changed on your Social Security card and your drivers license. Any couple who wants to adopt new names after marriage must fill this marriage license with the proposed names, typically decided beforehand by both partners. The name on your passport will need to match the name on your plane tickets and other forms of identification, otherwise you risk being denied entry to foreign countries. Any change to an ID or license requires the holder to pay a fee for the replacement showing the new name. The name on your passport will need to match the name on your plane tickets and other forms of identification, otherwise you risk being denied entry to foreign countries. Verify their employment in person at a driver license office. To change your Address and Zip Code, Name or Gender on your driver license or ID card, you must apply for a replacement (also known as a duplicate) and pay the required fee. Once you officially say I do and its time to sign your marriage certificate, you will use your new married name. Tagged: bride name change, Married Name Change, Name Change after Marriage, texas married name change, texas name change, Now that youre married, it is time to consider savvy newlywed investing. You may be dreading your trip to the DMV to update your drivers license, but dont put it off! Those whose documents aren't in English must have them translated by a certified translator and bring them and the original documents to the nearest DPS office. Upon altering debit and credit card information, consumers will have to go through their latest financial statements to identify and notify service providers they have authorized to make automated deductions. All Rights Reserved. How to gain custody of a sibling in Texas. Your officiant will be responsible to return that marriage license to the County Clerks office within 30 days of your wedding and you will receive the official marriage certificate as well as your certified copies by mail. Printed items like personalized stationary and business cards. An original marriage certificate is the main legal document that reflects a person's newly adopted name. You can also avail of our legal advisory for Name Change after marriage through online sessions. Whether youre sharing accounts with your spouse or simply changing your own accounts, youll want to go into your local branch with your marriage certificate and your newly acquired drivers license. April 26, 2021. Applicant's browser must support a 128-bit encryption. A name change can impact your taxes, so its important to make sure your tax returns match your Social Security records. Update your new name with Social Security, the motor vehicle office, and other government agencies. Watch on A name change is not required by law, but a person may decide to take their spouse's last name when they get married. The process will cost $11 per license. Click here to get detailed passport update instructions from the State Department. There are many, many places your new name needs to be updated that will vary based on your current lifestyle. } Legally changing your name after marriage isnt a compulsion. You can also change your childs last name in a separate suit affecting the parent-child relationship (SAPCR). If for some reason your attorney neglected to include your name change request with your petition for divorce, you may be able to amend your petition for divorce. The cost of a marriage license varies from county to county in Texas (it ranges from $65 to $88), so its best to call your County Clerks office in advance to make sure you have the right amount (some offices take credit cards, others just cash, so double-check the proper form of payment, as well!). Answer Family Law Case (TexasLawHelp.org) Respond to a law suit in a family law case. IAdminfootr01a_01_02 = new Image(137, 28);IAdminfootr01a_01_02.src = '/images/txreg_nav.gif'; If you want to change your name to one you have NOT used before, for example, a name other than your maiden name, the state of Texas does allow you to make that change in your divorce decree, as long as you are not a convicted felon and meet other requirements. OWNED OR OPERATED BY ANY STATE GOVERNMENT AGENCY. However, you will need to meet a best interest standard (meaning the name change is in the best interest of the child) in order to change your childs last name. While you are still very welcome to announce it through your local newspaper, the more effective route would be sending out announcements. These guides and articles walk you through changing an adult or a child's name. IAdminfootr01a_01_02o = new Image(137, 28);IAdminfootr01a_01_02o.src = '/images/txreg_nav_over.gif'; The Social Security office is the first place to visit, as other government offices wont recognize your name change until youve updated it on your Social Security card. At this stage, the petitioner will have to pay the applicable filing fee, while persons who seek to waive the filing fee will file the Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs. Your marriage certificate will be the primary legal document used to change your name. As long as your attorney helps you get your paperwork in order and there is no compelling reason for a judge to deny the name change, you can expect the proceeding to go quickly once you appear before the judge. We are incredibly worried about the state of general information available on the internet and strongly believe our mission is to give voice to unsung experts leading their respective fields. document.returnValue = false; Legal Name Change Procedures In order to legally change a person's name an order must be signed by a District Judge. This page from TexasLawHelp.org answers frequently asked questions about how to enforce the division of property that was ordered in a final divorce decree. if (document.images) { This can be found on their website. Getting Your Wedding License in Texas Notice to Licensees Who Bill for Services: Texas Department of Insurance has Adopted Emergency Rules related to Balance Billing. Prescription Drug Monitoring Program Updates. Youll then receive your official marriage certificate and certified copies by mail. The benefits of those two options can be in retaining a connection to your old name or even being easier to find on social media. How to change last name after divorce for your child in Texas: In order to legally change your childs last name you will need to submit a Petition to Change the Name of a Child, request a hearing and appear before a judge. 2023 by Sisemore Law Firm, P.C. Theyll take the guesswork out of changing your name and make it a smooth and streamlined experience. In Texas, changing names after the marriage starts before the wedding ceremony when the couple obtains a marriage license. If you want a new and different name, you will need to go through a separate name change . You can simply change your name in your marriage license or in your divorce decree. Fortunately, this is a very straightforward process similar to the IRS and voter registration. (Or, if youd rather spend the first months of your marriage enjoying your spouse rather than filling out the same paperwork over and over again, UpdateMyName.com will do it for you. Social Security cards are one of the most important documents that residents of Texas must keep current. First things firstin order to start the process of changing your name after marriage in Texas you have to, well, actually get married. However, certified copies of marriage licenses can only be obtained from the county clerk's office. All rights reserved. This will likely include submitting new tax paperwork and any other information you need to provide to HR. You will want to bring all the required forms of identification which include your current drivers license, your updated security card and your certified marriage certificate. Tips on Supporting a Friends Who Had to Postpone their Wedding, All Your Wedding Etiquette Questions Answered. You have two years from the date of the final decree to file for enforcement of property division. They will update your name in their system, legally changing your name. Your name change is officially registered with the state of Texas once youve registered your new name with the Social Security Administration and the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Provide the DMS with their current residential address. With the help of the legal advisors in Texas, you can Legally Change Your Name After Marriage. We can answer your questions about divorce, child custody,child support in Texas,property divisionand how to change your name after divorce. Note that part of this process will also include making sure your employer/payroll records have your new name, so that it will be correct on your W-2 and other documents. For persons who wish to complete a change of name through a court order, the time required to complete a name change depends on how early they can file a petition. Youll need to pay $60 for this speedier process and show proof of identification, name change, and your travel plans. There is a 72-hour waiting period after getting your license, but it can be waived by a court-order. Changing your name on your credit card(s) isnt a difficult process, but it may be time consuming depending on how many cards you have. Forty-eight hours after your name has been registered with the Social Security Administration, you can head to the nearest Texas DMV to update your name. Passport holders must follow the steps listed below to obtain new passports: Persons who have recently changed their names after marriage can apply for a passport by completing and mailing Form DS-5504 along with the following documents: No other mail delivery service apart from the U.S. The applicant's full name is required on all applications for a driver license or identification certificate. (Or, if youd rather spend the first months of your marriage enjoying your spouse rather than filling out the same paperwork over and over again, UpdateMyName.com will do it for you. function dmim(msgStr) { Applicant's Social Security number is already on file with the DPS. State of Texas | Statewide Search | Report Fraud in Texas | Texas Statutes, Site Map | Library Policies | Accessibility | Employment Opportunities, 205 West 14th Street, Austin, Texas 78701-1614. State law does not contain step-by-step instructions when changing your last name after marriage. Forms are available for custody (SAPCR), divorce, paternity, modification, and name change situations. Family Law Attorney Fort Worth There are other options when it comes to updating your name after your wedding and those include hyphenated names or keeping your maiden name as your middle or second middle name, which are the most common variations. If you have a mortgage/loan out with this bank, take this opportunity to switch your name on those as well. Fortunately, changing a last name after divorce is pretty easy in Texas, provided you request the name change at the outset of your divorce. Adult petitioners must write "Exhibit" on each of these documents and attach them to their petition. document.returnValue = true; This form must be completed by two people who have known you by both names. Its recommended that you keep your old identification in case you need to prove your previous name. While your close friends and immediate family may know about your name change, theres a lot of people that wont and its important to get the word out there. Interested persons may access .css-9c6ohv{font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;font-weight:400;font-size:14px;line-height:22px;font-family:"Arial",serif;color:#1b395e;text-transform:none;font-style:normal;-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-9c6ohv:hover{color:#d30000;}marriage license application indexes from 1966 to the present through the Vital Statistics Section (VSS) of the Texas Health and Human Services (THHS). Terms of Service | Privacy Policy | Affiliates. The clerk will then file-stamp these forms, keep the original copies, and return the duplicate copies to the petitioner. Get the child's written consent when applicable. Paralegal prepare your legal petition for Texas Name Change After Marriage with accuracy. Your certified name change document, such as your: Marriage certificate. Simply, fill out an application for a new social security card. You were discharged from prison and/or completed probation a minimum of two years prior. You provide your information in a single, easy-to-understand form. FAQs About Changing Your Name After Marriage Yes, the process does take quite a few steps, but once you hear or see your new name, youll be so glad you took the time to make it happen. For 15 years our company has published content with clear steps to accomplish the how, with high quality sourcing to answer the why, and with original formats to make the internet a helpful place. To speak with a member of our team or schedule a confidential consultation with our founder Justin Sisemore regarding how to change your name in Texas after divorce, contact us. No name will be used that has not been documented. To prove a pardon, petitioners must provide copies of their clemency or pardon proclamation from the Registrations Unit of the Office of the Secretary of State. You can reach our Fort Worth law firm at (817) 336-4444 or connect with us online. Youll need to consider your upcoming travel plans to figure out if youll need to expedite the process by applying in person or if you can wait several weeks to receive your new document. While you can apply for a new Social Security card by mail, its less desirable because youll have to send them your certified marriage license and original ID, and be without them for a few weeks while your forms are processed. Otherwise, consumers who want to complete a name change must contact the customer services unit of the private utility provider. Otherwise, provide evidence that they have notified the local enforcement agency of the application for a name change, Must make full disclosure of all Class A or B misdemeanors and felony charges filed against them. These copies will typically be required to change the name on other official documents such as a Social Security card or driver's license. If youre wondering how to change your last name in Texas after divorce and you have been divorced for some time and want to change your last name later, you will need to file anOriginal Petition for Change of Namein the county where you reside. Even if your handle isnt your name, the account is under your name. Although its not required, you should make an appointment to avoid a long wait. We all want to be financially secure, but how do we get there? Though it is not required, a lot of people change their names to symbolize commitment and unity. Find more information on how to change your name with the IRS here. Is there an easy way to change your last name after marriage in Texas. Receive your kit Now the fun begins! The judge in thedivorce courtoverseeing your case will consider the request for Texas name change after divorce along with other requests you make during the divorce, like requests forspousal support,property division,child custody and visitation, etc. Petitions for adult name changes may also be filed online via the, Preparing for a court hearing: Petitioners must make detailed inquiries from the clerk of the court regarding how to prepare for a court hearing. Find out more below.). Companies like Im a Mrs, HitchSwitch and even Legal Zoom can help you with the process! At the Sisemore Law Firm, explaining the Texas name change after divorce process and facilitating that process for our clients is something we include on our internal checklist of to-dos. Select package NewlyNamed Box or Print at Home 2. Obtaining and completing the court forms. People start to send you amazing coupons because they think youre new to the area. LegallyNameChange.com does not furnish, provide to give any type of legal advice. To file this petition, individuals must meet certain requirements. As of 2019, it costs $11 to update your standard drivers license. Now that youve changed your name on your most important legal documents, you can breathe a sigh of reliefbut your works not done quite yet! 1. That way we can ensure a clients request for changing name after divorce isnt overlooked. There will be a processing fee. Click here to get your voter registration application. IAdminfootr01a_01_03o = new Image(226, 28);IAdminfootr01a_01_03o.src = '/images/tac_nav_over.gif'; Whether youre modern or traditional, there is something for everyone when it comes to name changes, from the simple switch to the hyphenated options, weve got you covered. 2. Board of Nursing Complaint Process: Investigation to Resolution. During your hearing for changing name after divorce in Texas, the judge will want to make sure youre not requesting a name change to avoid creditors or make it difficult for people to find you (say youre doing something illegal or have a warrant out for your arrest). Professional or educational associations, clubs and organizations, Social media accounts (That may be the most important am I right?). Use this guide to make your personalized name-change list and find out how many of these places will require a certified copy of your marriage license, so you will know how many to request. Visit the county courthouse office during regular weekday business hours to get your form. If you plan on traveling internationally, you must update your passport ASAP. The decision to change your nameafter marriage is an entirely personal one. Dont do things too early that could cause logistical issues. This could go to friends and family especially those that may not have been at the wedding. For a minor, the petitioner may have to testify that the name change is in the child's best interest. You will need: A completed Application for a Social Security Card (form SS-5). Individuals who obtained their passports a year or more ago before the change may fill and submit Form DS-82. When all parties are NOT in agreement about changing a childs last name, you will need to jump through more hoops.