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. Then, provide the company with proof of your identity, such as your drivers license, and proof of your billing address, such as your lease agreement. 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). 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. 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. 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. Some utility providers may allow you to alter your billing information through their official website. 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. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. However, some may require you to file a new application for a utility account. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or another form of TSA-approved identification to board a domestic commercial flight. 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. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 302,742 times. first 30 days of purchase if you're unhappy with our services. 1) Joint mortgage payments Contact a Nationwide agent to steer you in the right direction. Last Updated: July 22, 2020 will help you determine the correct passport form to submit. You may also get your petition notarized at a bank before returning it the courthouse. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. When a couple goes through a divorce, a certain amount of uncertainty and change is inevitable. Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your surname. 5 Reasons from Laura Wasser. 4 Make a deposit payment if required. This can lead to legal issues if that person moves out or if your lease requires you to change the bill over. By using our site, you agree to our. 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. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. If you took your spouses name when you got married, you may want to reclaim your former name after your divorce. If you submitted Form SS-5 via mail, wait until you receive your new Social Security card in the mailbefore visiting the DMV. Start by looking through your checking account and credit card statements for things you auto-pay each month. However, some may require you to file a new application for a utility account. You can look up companies on normal search engines or utility databases like. Youre buying a day's time with each to contact a provider in case of a glitch, such as no electricity or Internet. Even though I don't have dependent children, I read the info to be. The petition will likely ask for your general information, your current last name, and the name that you would like to change it to. Youll need to update your name with the SSA by filling out Form SS-5 and submitting it by mail or in person at your nearest SSA office. Lawyers, individuals who have been convicted of a crime and immigrants must notify the state bar, the Criminal Justice System, or the Immigration and Naturalization Services, respectively, in addition to putting an ad in the paper. Affordable, flat rate legal advice from an independent attorney licensed in your state, to make sure you do everything right. Removing Someone from the Account. Assuming he is agreeable to the arrangement, it would be quite simple--just contact your utility companies. Divorce decree vs. divorce certificate: What's the difference? Is it possible my tenant switched the CMP account from her name to mine without my knowledge or permission? We will call you back as you requested. 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. Try changing your name online. Your email address will not be published. Typically, you can bring the form to your divorce hearing. So we think its best to play it safe. If your relocation involves moving from one state to another, contact your insurance company for a list of agents in the new region. WebPlan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. Most petitions also ask for a reason why someone wants to change their name. In most states, REAL IDs cost the same as standard IDs so the REAL IDs travel benefits make it an easy decision to get. Youll likely need to call customer service. Get the right guidance with an attorney by your side. At the same time, contact your current insurance agent to stop coverage at your previous home before the new renter or owner occupies it. Your email address will not be published. If you have not accessed While its tempting to avoid the hassle of visiting a government office and simply mail your application in,we recommend visiting the SSA office in person. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. Expect to receive your new Social Security card in 7 to 14 days. Our network attorneys have an average customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Can I take my name off of utility bill during divorce? Can I 1) Joint mortgage payments Your employer needs your current name for payroll and tax purposes. Updated Nov 16, 2022. To update your Global Entry card, start by calling your nearestGlobal Entry Enrollment Center. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. Changing your name after divorce. If you took your spouses name when you got married, you may want to reclaim your former name after your divorce. Then reach out to that person to ensure you have homeowners, renters insurance in place at the new abode. 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. Though doing so may sound complicated, the process is actually quite simple once you know all the steps. 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. 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. By using our site, you agree to our. 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. While youre at the DMV, you can also update your voter registration with your new name. How To Change Your Name After Divorce: An 11-Step Guide Step 1 Get your divorce decree. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. WebPlan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take? In order to revise your name after a divorce, follow the procedures set forth during the divorce process, by federal law, and in your respective state. How To Prepare Yourself, Moving Out of State Before, During, or After Divorce, Why is Divorce So Expensive? You can request a name change by calling the TSA Help Center at 855-347-8371. Not all states require a hearing, but if yours does, make sure you are available to attend. Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter! alimony payments or child support payments in your new name, its important to have the information updated with your bank as soon as possible. If your divorce is finalized and contains a court order changing your name, you can use the order to change your other documents. Note: TSA has been inconsistent with name changes so be patient. When youre deactivating a utility, give the company an address where you can receive your final bill if you don't use online bill-pay services. If youre considering getting a divorce, you may benefit from getting a no-fault divorce, which is usually easier and faster. The content is They enjoy the unity of sharing a family name, even if that name also belongs to their former spouse. Voting is important and your new name will have to be properly registered with your state to vote. Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle and other marks displayed on this page are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, unless otherwise disclosed. Step 2 Find legal proof of your former name. If you havent already, make sure you update your name with online shopping services and streaming services. 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. To change your name on your drivers license, you should go to your local DMV with your divorce decree. Step 2 Find legal proof of your former name. ", http://www.socialsecurity.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf, https://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds5504.pdf, https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport/change-correct.html, http://family.findlaw.com/divorce/changing-your-name-after-divorce.html. This portion of the site is for informational purposes only. If youre still making a decision, heres what you should consider about pursuing a name change after divorce. You can call your utility company and explain the reason for the name change. In most cases, they only need evidence in the form of a photo of your current ID or license. You probably wont have to leave your house to make those changes. Removing Someone from the Account. If you have both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, remember to update Global Entry first! You can file by mail, or you can file in person. You may not need documents with your former name on them. Updated Nov 16, 2022. Any non-employee-sponsored accounts you have such as a Roth IRA, Traditional IRA, 529, or brokerage account. It all comes down to a matter of personal preference. Last Updated: September 22, 2021 The advice on pro bono representation is a great relief to me, and I'm sure for others as well, who also need aid. What if a bill is put into my name without permission? to help you obtain a certified copy of your divorce decree. Ask if you can update your name over the phone. ), and all your personal accounts (banks, credit cards, frequent flyer programs, hotel loyalty, investment accounts, nursing license, etc.). This step is very important because it can prevent things like tax hiccups and errors with depositing your paycheck. However, some may require you to file a new application for a utility account. common questions, filing instructions, and customer care provided during the process of 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. 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. 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. Getting Divorced,divorce without a lawyer, Learn about divorce online with Divorce.com, The Divorce (R)evolution Will Not Be TelevisedItll Be Online As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Its probably not a wise idea to mail them your drivers license and wait for them to mail it back to you. The person be sued for fraud for using someone else's name, likeness, or other personal attributes without permission for an exploitative purpose. To get the names and numbers of the utility companies when you rent, you can ask your landlord or leasing office. We are not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. Your divorce decree serves as your legal name change document. ", so I wasn't aware that I needed to fill out a petition for a name change. purchase the electronic filing of your documents, complete the documents, and we pay to file WebTo file a Petition for Change of Name, one must first fill out the necessary forms, which can be completed online or downloaded here. Freelance writer and editor Michelle Kaminsky, Esq. Changing your name after divorce. If you are in a difficult financial situation, it's possible to get a divorce without paying a dime. Communications between you and Divorce.com are governed by our I am now residing in my own place so I need a PG&E account for my new residence. 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. This can result in no gas, water or internet service for days. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. 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). 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. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Divorce Services To change your name on your drivers license, you should go to your local DMV with your divorce decree. "I represented myself in my divorce and did not attend any of the workshops available to me because of the distance, "I researched the name change process after filing for a divorce. Learn more about changing your name with the SSA by visiting our Social Security Name Change Guide. For tips on how to set up a new utility, scroll down! our post-purchase services, however, you can request a refund within 30 days of purchase. Your access to Don't confuse a divorce decree with a divorce certificate. You will need to mail in the application along with the required documentation, a color photograph of yourself, and the applicable fees. Once my divorce was finalized, I found method two most helpful. Putting your electric bill in a persons name without their permission amounts to identity theft, with slight differences when ex-spouses are involved. 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. If you took your spouses name when you got married, you may want to reclaim your former name after your divorce. Review your travel calendar! WebSituation 1: Submit a Request to the Divorce Court Judge. The statements and opinions are the expression of the author, Plan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. WebHow to Change the Name on a Utility Bill Name Change on Marriage or Divorce. Updating your passport is technically a correction so youll be able to submit everything by mail. In addition, we cannot guarantee that a customer's spouse will sign the documents and cannot through the United States Postal Service. will help you determine which documents youll need to present in order to update your name with the SSA. If youre required to present proof, these documents will do the trick. You can't. The average person needs to change their name in over 20 places! How to change the name on your Social Security card. You can find the form online by searching the phrase name change in California.. with a court, we cannot refund the fees to you. If you use both, updating your Global Entry information will also change your PreCheck status; you dont need to update them separately. Terms of Use and booked in your old name, wait until you return from your travel to update your passport. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. You can start a court-ordered name change by contacting your county clerks office. You dont want your packages to arrive in the wrong name, and you dont want to run into any issues if you ever get locked out of your accounts. ", divorce decree. 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. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. During this time, the company representative may require you to create an online billing account. 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. Monthly subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify, Hulu, HBO, etc. Some people keep their married names simply because they dont like their former last names. After you file, the clerk will tell you your next steps. The divorce process can be a particularly emotional and vulnerable time. It may be an important part of the healing process following a divorce. If your passport was issued less than one year ago, you should complete Form DS-5504 which can be found at, If your passport was issued more than one year ago, you should complete Form DS-82 which is available at. This form wizardwill help you determine the correct passport form to submit. prepaid shipping labels, we cannot offer a refund for those labels. Its your best chance to avoid a long line! Two (2) documents are required such as a utility bill, mortgage/lease statement, bank statement, or credit card statement. It is clear to understand and had every single step to do. Most require you to call customer service and mail in supporting documentation. We cannot provide refunds for fees we collect on behalf of third parties. Can I take my name off of utility bill during divorce? Keep in mind that in some states you may be required to pay a small fee to get a new license. Turning on utilities requires some work and several calls; one company doesnt provide all the services you may need. Putting your electric bill in a persons name without their permission amounts to identity theft, with slight differences when ex-spouses are involved. Keep in mind that any name change after marriage means you should also get your name changed on any and all official documents, including but not limited to, the following: Passport; Bank and other financial/investment accounts; Credit cards; Mortgages/deeds/leases; Insurance policies; Utility bills; Phone/cable bills; Student loans In most states, there is a simple form that you will fill out to get a new license. A valid passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate. You will need to email or fax your legal name change document (divorce decree or court order), passport, Known Traveler Number, and a unique code the TSA agent gives you over the phone. Your new Social Security card. In these jurisdictions, so long as you use your former name consistently, you do not need to file anything further with the state. For some, changing their last name back is an act of reclaiming their identity after a negative experience. 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A certain amount of uncertainty and change is inevitable this step is very important because it can prevent like... The right guidance with an attorney or law firm or a substitute for an attorney or firm... At the new region can call your utility company and explain the reason for the name on them change name. Some utility providers may allow you to alter your billing information through their official website the of. 1 helps us in our mission passport form to submit also get your petition at... Email address to get a new application for a utility bill, mortgage/lease statement, credit! Payments contact a Nationwide agent to steer you in the new region to properly... A correction so youll be able to submit informational purposes only mail, wait until you receive your new Security... Electric bill in a difficult financial situation, it 's possible to get a new application for a account. To submit hearing, changing name on utility bills after divorce if yours does, make sure you are available attend. Because they dont like their former last names changing name on utility bills after divorce, they only evidence. Utility company and explain the reason for the name on your Social Security name change returning the... Healing process following a divorce, you can also update your passport names.