How do I choose a new legal name?

Steps to Legally Change Your Name

1. Petition to change your name by filling out a name change form, an order to show cause for legally changing your name, and a decree to legally change your name.
2. Take these forms to the court clerk and file them along with your state’s required filing fees.

Can you use a different first name without legally changing it?

The name change process in California satisfies every state, federal, and international standard for integrity and security. Your Marriage Certificate may, or may not be a valid change of name document. To be valid, it must have your full maiden name, or other legal former name, AND your full new name (married).

How long does it take for Social Security to change your name?

Individuals often ask, how long does it take to change your name on a Social Security card? The answer depends on the backlog at the SSA. Normally, it takes two to six weeks for the SSA to mail your new card, along with returning any supporting documentation. For this reason, don’t wait to initiate the process.

How can I legally change my legal name?

This section gives you information on legally changing your name or a minor’s name by getting a court order. With a court order you can change your legal name on government-issued identification documents such as your driver’s license, passport, and social security card.

What do I need to know before changing my name?

There are some key things to know before changing your name, ranging from the paperwork this will involve to the time you will need to invest in order to complete the task across all government institutions. Changing your name starts with the desire to do so and is not fully complete until it is reflected accordingly in all of your documents.

Why do people legally change their names?

People legally change their first, middle, or last names for a variety of reasons: Major life changes—getting married, divorced, or undergoing a gender reassignment—might catalyze a name change, or people might just hate the name they were born with.

Can a married couple have a blended last name in California?

*Please note that this option is only available to California couples, and they must write their blended last names on their marriage license. If you love your last name and your spouse doesn’t have major ties to his, consider having him take your maiden name as a new last name.