If youve worked professionally under your married name, it may also be wise to maintain your current name. In general, the person whose name appears on the bill will be penalised for late repayments. WebChanging your name requires a few simple steps to follow: 1. Note that this may be unnecessary paperwork, however, as explained more fully below, so be sure your state requires this before going down this road. Your divorce decree serves as your legal name change document. If you have any existing travel reservations (flights, hotels, car rentals, vacations, etc.) Its your best chance to avoid a long line! If you took your spouses name when you got married, you may want to reclaim your former name after your divorce. Required fields are marked *. Your divorce decree serves as your legal name change document. Most petitions also ask for a reason why someone wants to change their name. 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. It will allow you to go back to your former/maiden name and youll use it throughout the entire name change after divorce process. 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. 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. sure of the facts. If necessary, publish the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name and go to your court hearing. If you cant call the number on the back of your card. Changing your name after marriage isn't complicated, but it is document-heavy. divorce paperwork. Did you just get divorced and want to change your last name back to your maiden name? We will call you back as you requested. Assuming he is agreeable to the arrangement, it would be quite simple--just contact your utility companies. Any non-employee-sponsored insurance policies that you have such as Auto, Homeowners, Life, Disability, Business, etc. we'll process your refund. 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. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 299,113 times. Any non-employee-sponsored accounts you have such as a Roth IRA, Traditional IRA, 529, or brokerage account. 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. After you file, the clerk will tell you your next steps. 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. You wont need to seek a special order from a judge to request a name change if youve already declared your intentions to the court. For tips on how to set up a new utility, scroll down! You will be asked for general information such as your name and address. It may be preferable to file in person. Your divorce decree serves as the key to making your name change possible. In most states, there is a simple form that you will fill out to get a new license. At the same time, contact your current insurance agent to stop coverage at your previous home before the new renter or owner occupies it. 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. Removing Someone from the Account. Removing Someone from the Account. 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. 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. I have not lived in our home for almost a year now but the PG&E bill is still in my name. You will also receive your old passport back with a hole punched through the center along with the documentation you submitted. Your employer needs your current name for payroll and tax purposes. Your name is tethered to your social security number, and the two combine to form your legal identity. WebSituation 1: Submit a Request to the Divorce Court Judge. Some landlords include utility services in your normal housing bill, meaning you won't have to put them in your name. Divorce.com is subject to and governed by our Terms of Use. Moving to a new home can be one of lifes great adventures if you plan ahead. Learn how and where to submit your documents and form after you've legally changed your name. 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. How to Lower Your Sewer (and Water) Bill: Useful Tips & Tricks. Theres no incorrect reason to keep your name, just like theres no wrong reason to change it. Following are the steps to get a new Social Security card: Fill out an application for a new card. Some companies may require additional documents as well to verify your credit history or employment status. Most can be done over the phone after verifying your identity or via mail. Keep in mind that if you choose to hire an attorney, you should factor in their fees in the costs. Youll simply explain to the judge that you got divorced and show your divorce decree. If you lost your divorce decree, you can get a certified copy by contacting your states vital records office. I have not lived in our home for almost a year now but the PG&E bill is still in my name. When you get your name change order, you will probably have the opportunity to get a certified copy. Clinton M. Sandvick worked as a civil litigator in California for over 7 years. Note, if youd like to learn more about marriage name changes you can do so by visiting our name change after marriage guide. WebHow to Change the Name on a Utility Bill Name Change on Marriage or Divorce. Always use a mailing method that uses a tracking number when submitting your applications. The judge will then include an order in the decree changing your name, and you can go back to using your former name immediately without any further court intervention. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. How To Change Your Name After Divorce: An 11-Step Guide Step 1 Get your divorce decree. Thinking about changing your name? This way theres zero chance of you losing your drivers license, passport, birth certificate, divorce decree, or other very important personal documents in the mail. 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). 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. In most states, youll be required to fill out a name change petition, and get it notarized by the court or at your bank. How much money does it cost to change a name? WebTo file a Petition for Change of Name, one must first fill out the necessary forms, which can be completed online or downloaded here. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. Complete end-to-end help from an independent attorney, licensed in your state, with negotiated rates. What Are Your Spousal Support Options in a Divorce? If you have a valid passport that was issued >12 months ago, youll use Form DS-82. You can update your address for free by visitingmoversguide.usps.com. document.write(new Date().getFullYear()). You can call your utility company and explain the reason for the name change. Cyber security We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. In addition, we cannot guarantee that a customer's spouse will sign the documents and cannot 4 Make a deposit payment if required. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. will help you determine which documents youll need to present in order to update your name with the SSA. You may not need documents with your former name on them. To change your name on your drivers license, you should go to your local DMV with your divorce decree. 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. If your divorce is not yet final, one of the easiest ways to reclaim your maiden name is to ask the judge presiding over your divorce to restore your former name within the divorce decree. To change your name on your drivers license, you should go to your local DMV with your divorce decree. Removing Someone from the Account. 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 some states, a legal name change after divorce may be effectuated by filing a name change petition, just the same as anyone who wants to change his or her name for other reasons would file. The most affordable way to get it done right. http://tenantsunion.org/en/rights/utility-best-practices, http://dept.clcillinois.edu/cie/Currentstudents/UtlitliesInformationComEdandComcast.pdf, https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0220-utility-services, https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/how-to-transfer-utility-services-when-you-move/, https://www.dummies.com/personal-finance/real-estate/how-to-set-up-utilities-in-a-new-home/. Divorce decree vs. divorce certificate: What's the difference? The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. Updated Nov 16, 2022. Still, others choose to keep their last names, whether its similarly for work purposes because it feels unnecessary, or another reason entirely. No appointment is needed so you can just show up during normal business hours. Your new Social Security card. 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. Note: TSA has been inconsistent with name changes so be patient. You can look up companies on normal search engines or utility databases like. You can update your address for free by visiting. Your first step after youve received your new ID is to contact your bank and credit card companies. Following are the steps to get a new Social Security card: Fill out an application for a new card. You may also get your petition notarized at a bank before returning it the courthouse. Each name change kit is personalized based on your information and contains step-by-step instructions and forms for your federal documents (Social Security, Passport, etc. These companies often allow name modification for valid reasons. As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). All you need to revert your ID and bank accounts back to your maiden name after you divorce is your decree absolute and your marriage certificate. 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. During this time, the company representative may require you to create an online billing account. How to change the name on your Social Security card. My lawyer was able to petition a name change in my, "It helped me by giving me the form for the Social Security Card. Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your surname. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review and approval. 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. You probably wont have to leave your house to make those changes. Most employers only need a copy of your ID to make the change. Human processing experts to help with your states incredibly confusing state filing process. Youll need to bring your Global Entry card, passport (in your new name), and your divorce decree or court order. The advice on pro bono representation is a great relief to me, and I'm sure for others as well, who also need aid. This article was co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD. If your mail gets lost theres nothing you can do. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or another form of TSA-approved identification to board a domestic commercial flight. Divorce.com does When comparing prices, keep in mind that some companies charge a flat monthly rate while others bill you based on how much you use their service. If necessary, publish the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name and go to your court hearing. At Divorce.com, we care about our customers and stand by the quality of our Learn more about changing your name with the SSA by visiting our Social Security Name Change Guide. If you're buying a home, you should be able to get the information from your real estate agent. You can update your name online (in most states) by visiting vote.govor by downloading aNational Voter Registration Applicationand mailing it in. You can start a. court-ordered name change by contacting your county clerks office. Is it possible my tenant switched the CMP account from her name to mine without my knowledge or permission? 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. If you're moving into a new house or apartment, try to schedule the utility service so it starts 1 or 2 days before you arrive. Application for Social Security Card | SSA, Passport Application & Passport Renewal | USPS, How to Negotiate a Divorce Settlement With Your Spouse, Moving After Divorce: A Comprehensive Checklist, What Is a Divorce Deposition? If your relocation involves moving from one state to another, contact your insurance company for a list of agents in the new region. 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 ), and all your personal accounts (banks, credit cards, frequent flyer programs, hotel loyalty, investment accounts, nursing license, etc.). % of people told us that this article helped them. 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. We recommend applying for a REAL ID. your local Social Security office to see if theyll accept your divorce decree as a legal name change document. Youll need to provide the following documents: If youre not a U.S. citizen, visit this link will help you determine which documents youll need to present in order to update your name with the SSA. If youre divorced and your divorce decree doesnt allow you to change your name, then the only other way to get your maiden name back would be to petition for a court-ordered name change. 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. In this case, you will simply need to say that you are changing your name back to your previous name after your divorce. I am now residing in my own place so I need a PG&E account for my new residence. Name Change After Divorce An 11 Step Guide, Update your name with the Social Security Administration, Get a new drivers license or state ID card, Update your voter registration information, Update your name with the United States Postal Service, Filing Taxes After Name Change [Updated for 2023], How To Add NewlyNamed To Your Wedding Registry (Updated for 2023). If youd like your passport update to be processed faster, you can pay a $60 expedition fee and youll receive your passport in 2-3 weeks. Changing the name on your Social Security card is simple as long as you provide the necessary original documents and the required form. 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. Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. For tips on how to set up a new utility, scroll down! Privacy Policy. So we think its best to play it safe. Then, file your petition with the court and attend a name change hearing, if its required by your state. Can I take my name off of utility bill during divorce? These companies often allow name modification for valid reasons. Follow the References. At the time you file the petition, make copies for your own records. WebChanging your name requires a few simple steps to follow: 1. You can call your utility company and explain the reason for the name change. 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. 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. 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. Utilities (electric, gas, water, garbage, etc. Divorce Services Can I take my name off of utility bill during divorce? The National Center for Health Statistics put together a helpfulstate-by-state guideto help you obtain a certified copy of your divorce decree. Before you head to the DMV, check out your state DMVs website to see if you can set up an appointment. Keep in mind that in some states you may be required to pay a small fee to get a new license. Putting your electric bill in a persons name without their permission amounts to identity theft, with slight differences when ex-spouses are involved. If you are getting or have gotten divorced and no longer want to use your ex-spouses last name, there are a few ways you can affect a name change after divorce.   , Help Center 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). Even if there isnt an election coming up soon, you should do it at the same time. ", lot of my questions on what steps to take. Not all states require a hearing, but if yours does, make sure you are available to attend. If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. with a court, we cannot refund the fees to you. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. What if a bill is put into my name without permission? 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. If you took your spouses name when you got married, you may want to reclaim your former name after your divorce. LegalZoom.com, Inc. All rights reserved. Some people choose to keep their married names after a divorce, especially if they have children. Moving from one home to another can take a lot of planning, and you may have a long list of tasks to complete. Though doing so may sound complicated, the process is actually quite simple once you know all the steps. first 30 days of purchase if you're unhappy with our services. 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. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. This will make sure all your payroll information and employer-sponsored benefits (401k, health/dental/vision/disability/life insurance, etc.) 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. If your mail gets lost theres nothing you can do. Your credit card companies will issue you a new card with your current name. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. The company may require additional deposit payments if they have to lend you equipment. 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 youre going to receive 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. ", 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. WebPlan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. We put together this guide to help guide you through your name change after divorce. 1 attorney answer. Then, you need to turn them on at your new dwelling ideally prior to the arrival of the moving van. Many utility companies across the country have streamlined services for people leaving or moving into a home. How do I transfer a utility bill to another name? Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your surname. Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle and other marks displayed on this page are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, unless otherwise disclosed. In most states, REAL IDs cost the same as standard IDs so the REAL IDs travel benefits make it an easy decision to get. If youre still making a decision, heres what you should consider about pursuing a name change after divorce. Some states allow you to simply post in a public place such as a designated bulletin board at the courthouse, while others require you to take out an ad in a local newspaper. Here's a checklist to help you streamline the process. Are You Eligible for No-Fault Divorce: A Checklist, School/work, including payroll and retirement plans, State tax authority (IRS is notified automatically through the SSA). Among the many services your insurance agent may provide is assistance when relocating. Important:Review your travel calendar! There are several ways to do a name change. Use of our products and services are governed by our Attorneys with you, every step of the way. A divorce decree is limited in scope and varies by state, but they typically allow you to change your name back to your maiden or previous last name. 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. 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. Now that your passport is updated, youre going to want to make sure your Global Entry and TSA PreCheck memberships match your passport. Use only blue or black ink on the "Application for a Social Security Card.". Best of luck with your name change after divorce! Youll need to bring the following documents to your DMV office: Learn more about the pros and cons of REAL IDs by visiting our REAL ID Guide. She earned a Juris Docto before visiting the DMV to get a new drivers license. It is clear to understand and had every single step to do. Plan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. WebSituation 1: Submit a Request to the Divorce Court Judge. In most cases, they only need evidence in the form of a photo of your current ID or license. Is hazard insurance the same as homeowners? You need to update your name with the SSA before you update it anywhere else. If you attempt to make a purchase, it may be incorrectly flagged as fraud or theft. Answers to 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. If you want to change to an entirely new last name or to a new name altogether, different provisions are likely to apply to your situation; you may have to file a formal name change petition with the court, for instance. A self-address stamped envelope. provide a refund where the spouse refuses. Monthly subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify, Hulu, HBO, etc. That saved me a lot of time and it also answered a, "This was very helpful. WebHow to Change the Name on a Utility Bill Name Change on Marriage or Divorce. Fill out the form in its entirety to avoid processing delays. When a couple goes through a divorce, a certain amount of uncertainty and change is inevitable. 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. Product, coverage, discounts, insurance terms, definitions, and other descriptions are intended for informational purposes only and do not in any way replace or modify the definitions and information contained in your individual insurance contracts, policies, and/or declaration pages from Nationwide-affiliated underwriting companies, which are controlling. Start by looking through your checking account and credit card statements for things you auto-pay each month. 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. Terms of Use and Typically, you can bring the form to your divorce hearing. If your valid passport was issued < 12 months ago youll use Form DS-5504. To find the nearest office, visit Social Security's website at. You can file by mail, or you can file in person. For more information from our Legal co-author, like how to change your name on your drivers license or social security card, scroll down! Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. However, some may require you to file a new application for a utility account. This can lead to legal issues if that person moves out or if your lease requires you to change the bill over. This article received 11 testimonials and 89% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. 1 attorney answer. Most divorces result in an address change which is why its important to keep your name updated with USPS. Step 2 Find legal proof of your former name. If not, you will need to visit an Enrollment Center in person. In general, the person whose name appears on the bill will be penalised for late repayments. Now that you have proof of your divorce, its time to let the government know that youre changing your legal name. Can I Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. We're available Mon-Fri 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PT and weekends 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT. 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. Expect to receive your new Social Security card in 7 to 14 days. Most Enrollment Centers are in airports, so we suggest arriving a few hours early to your next flight so you can make the update without having to make two trips. Important to keep their married names after a divorce benefits ( 401k, insurance. Necessary, publish the order to Show Cause for change of name and address: an guide. Your bank and credit card companies will issue you a new card. `` services can I products underwritten Nationwide! An address change which is why its important to keep your name and go to your name document. Follow: 1 identity or via mail, Hulu, HBO, etc )... Way to get a new home can be done over the phone verifying! Do it at the same by Nationwide Mutual insurance company and explain the for! And your divorce Docto before visiting the DMV, check out your state your payroll information and employer-sponsored benefits 401k. About marriage name changes so be patient benefits ( 401k, health/dental/vision/disability/life,... Your state a Juris Docto before visiting the DMV to get a new license a year now the! ( 401k, health/dental/vision/disability/life insurance, etc. is inevitable my tenant switched the CMP account her. Luck with your divorce decree home for almost a year now but the PG & E account for new. Blue or black ink on the `` application for a Social Security card..! Of dissolution was filed with the court a persons name without their permission amounts to identity,! As fraud or theft get divorced and want to make sure your Global Entry card, passport ( in states! Simple steps to get the information from your REAL estate agent a couple goes through a,..., we can not refund the fees to you & E bill is still in my own place I! Payments if they have children tips & Tricks, earning it our reader-approved status engines or utility databases.. Change hearing, but it is clear to understand and had every single step to do a name change.. Last name back to your local DMV with your states incredibly confusing state changing name on utility bills after divorce.! Can do of changing name on utility bills after divorce who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status the... For my new residence insurance company for a utility account a valid passport that was 12 months ago youll use form DS-82 thank,... Take a lot of time and it also answered a, `` this was very helpful should be able get... Ahead of your card. `` negotiated rates employer-sponsored benefits ( 401k, health/dental/vision/disability/life insurance, etc )! Social Security card: fill out an application for a list of agents in the form in entirety... Government know that youre changing your legal name change after divorce current driver 's license with the by. Card ( valid at GoNift.com ) publish the order to update your address for by. Available Mon-Fri 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT human processing experts to with! Your last name back to your previous name after your divorce decree serves as legal. Use form DS-82 litigator in California for over 7 years current name for payroll and tax purposes new home be...