1. Gather all relevant documents:
It’s important to collect all the relevant documents you will need in order to complete your name change. This includes your marriage certificate, divorce decree, a court order granting the name change, and other pertinent documentation. Make copies of these documents as you will need them for various applications.
2. Obtain a legal name change order from the court:
A legal name change order is typically granted by the court at the time of filing for divorce. However, if it was not included in your divorce decree, you may need to file an additional petition with the court.
3. Notify government agencies:
Once you’ve obtained a legal name change order, you will want to notify all relevant government agencies of your new name. This includes updating social security records and applications for benefits, voter registration forms and Motor Vehicle Department (DMV) records.
4. Contact financial institutions & credit reporting bureaus:
Banks, credit card companies and other financial institutions should be notified of your new name so that your credit history is updated. The same applies to the three major credit-reporting bureaus, which must be notified of the change.
5. Update online accounts & subscriptions:
Many online services require that you update your name and other personal information if it changes. This includes updating email accounts and websites such as eBay, and Amazon and social media sites like Facebook and Twitter.
6. Amend official forms & documents:
After notifying relevant government agencies and financial institutions, you may need to amend any legal documents with your new name, such as your will, contracts or leases.
7. Contact employers & update HR records:
If you are employed by a business or organization, you will need to update your name in their Human Resources department. They may also require you to provide a copy of your legal name change order.
8. Update medical & insurance provider accounts:
Contact any healthcare providers and insurance companies with whom you have accounts, such as Medicare, Medicaid or private health insurance plans, and inform them of the change in your name.
9. Change your name on social media networks:
In addition to updating online services like email and websites, be sure to update your profile information on any social media sites that you use, such as Twitter or Facebook.
10. Obtain a new driver’s license, passport and other photo ID cards:
The last step is to obtain new photo ID cards with your new name. This includes a driver’s license, passport and other forms of identification. You will also need to update any existing memberships or subscriptions that require you to present photo ID.