Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. If necessary, publish the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name and go to your court hearing. 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. 2min read. care center, unless theres a flaw in our underlying documents. with a court, we cannot refund the fees to you. We're available Mon-Fri 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PT and weekends 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT. Some states dont require any paperwork at all when changing your name after divorce. WebHow to Change the Name on a Utility Bill Name Change on Marriage or Divorce. 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. Many utility companies across the country have streamlined services for people leaving or moving into a home. Now youre going to want to update your passport to match your new name. 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. You probably wont have to leave your house to make those changes. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 302,742 times. Most can be done over the phone after verifying your identity or via mail. At the time you file the petition, make copies for your own records. Gather necessary documentation that must accompany the form. Youll simply explain to the judge that you got divorced and show your divorce decree. Every divorce is different, but in general, a divorce decree is issued by the court as a final summary of your divorce. Changing the name on your Social Security card is simple as long as you provide the necessary original documents and the required form. 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. alimony payments or child support payments in your new name, its important to have the information updated with your bank as soon as possible. booked in your old name, wait until you return from your travel to update your passport. are in your new name. Theyll update your information within their internal payroll process or with their payroll processing company. Among the many services your insurance agent may provide is assistance when relocating. 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. After you file, the clerk will tell you your next steps. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. Try changing your name online. You can call your utility company and explain the reason for the name change. However, if youre already divorced and want to change your name, go to your state courts website to find out what to do. He received his JD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1998 and his PhD in American History from the University of Oregon in 2013. Step 2 Find legal proof of your former name. To change your name on your drivers license, you should go to your local DMV with your divorce decree. 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. Most require you to call customer service and mail in supporting documentation. After a divorce it's helpful to understand what the documents are, and where you should go to get them. Can I Such products, coverages, terms, and discounts may vary by state and exclusions may apply. Some people keep their married names simply because they dont like their former last names. Can I 1 attorney answer. 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. Updated Nov 16, 2022. For some, changing their last name back is an act of reclaiming their identity after a negative experience. When you get your name change order, you will probably have the opportunity to get a certified copy. 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. A judge may verbally ask you this and make it a part of your final Terms and conditions Youll need to bring your Global Entry card, passport (in your new name), and your divorce decree or court order. WebSituation 1: Submit a Request to the Divorce Court Judge. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. completeness, or changes in the law. not legal advice. If youre currently a passport holder, the instructions for updating your passport will vary depending on the type of passport you have and how long youve held the passport. In addition, we cannot guarantee that a customer's spouse will sign the documents and cannot Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter! In most cases, they only need evidence in the form of a photo of your current ID or license. 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 most states, youll be required to fill out a name change petition, and get it notarized by the court or at your bank. If you're taking over billing responsibilities for a house or apartment, you'll need to put the home's utilities in your name. Your original Social Security card. The Social Security Administration will officially process your name change. Callyour local Social Security office to see if theyll accept your divorce decree as a legal name change document. If you cant call the number on the back of your card. Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your surname. Home Office: One Nationwide Plaza, Columbus, OH. Following are the steps to get a new Social Security card: Fill out an application for a new card. Were committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. In addition to your social security card, youll need to bring a few other documents to the DMV: Once you present these documents, theyll issue you your new ID or license. 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. A valid passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate. 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. Still, others choose to keep their last names, whether its similarly for work purposes because it feels unnecessary, or another reason entirely. It may be an important part of the healing process following a divorce. In general, the person whose name appears on the bill will be penalised for late repayments. Use of our products and services are governed by our If necessary, publish the Order to Show Cause for Change of Name and go to your court hearing. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. 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. Most banks require you to visit a branch location with your updated photo ID and your divorce decree or court order. Any non-employee-sponsored insurance policies that you have such as Auto, Homeowners, Life, Disability, Business, etc. Youll fill out Follow the Lastly, its legal to have more than one electric bill in your name with providers, and the same goes for putting two names on one bill. WebHow to Change the Name on a Utility Bill Name Change on Marriage or Divorce. We are not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. The company may require additional deposit payments if they have to lend you equipment. During busy periods, a utility company may not get to all orders promptly, or a customer may forget to include vital information. Please call us with the following information: The account details (account number, address, holders etc) The date from which any changes take effect An up-to-date meter reading Go to your California County Clerks Office and bring: A black pen to fill out any forms (black ink is required) Your divorce case number and stamped petition. Divorce.com is subject to and governed by our Terms of Use. During your divorce, youll be asked if youd like to resume your former name when the divorce is finalized. 4 Make a deposit payment if required. If you are in a difficult financial situation, it's possible to get a divorce without paying a dime. How do I transfer a utility bill to another name? It's not impossible, but neither is it likely. Your first step after youve received your new ID is to contact your bank and credit card companies. If youve worked professionally under your married name, it may also be wise to maintain your current name. If they cant, you can use money orders or cashiers checks until they do. Instead, they permit you to simply go back to using your former name. servicesso well refund our fees on divorce services, other than the activation fee, within the If you submitted Form SS-5 via mail, wait until you receive your new Social Security card in the mailbefore visiting the DMV. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. If your passport was issued less than one year ago, you should complete Form DS-5504 which is available athttps://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds5504.pdf and send it to the Passport Office along with your original or certified name change document, your old passport, and a current passport photo. 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. 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. 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. 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. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Youll need to contact your states vital records office. Voting is important and your new name will have to be properly registered with your state to vote. Can I You can find the form online by searching the phrase name change in California.. If you dont have a passport, you dont need to follow this step. Start by looking through your checking account and credit card statements for things you auto-pay each month. Removing Someone from the Account. This guide to legally changing your name will help get you started. Answers to Since you will be changing your name, you will need to make the connection from your current last name to the last name youd like to get back. You will be asked for general information such as your name and address. not LegalZoom, and have not been evaluated by LegalZoom for accuracy, So we think its best to play it safe. If the timing of your name change disrupts a pay period or cannot be processed in time for you to get paid on the proper date, ask your employer to write you out a paper check instead of processing your direct deposit. You will need to mail in the application along with the required documentation, a color photograph of yourself, and the applicable fees. 1) Joint mortgage payments Updated Nov 16, 2022. To find the nearest office, visit Social Security's website at. 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. To get the names and numbers of the utility companies when you rent, you can ask your landlord or leasing office. 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. This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff. purchase the electronic filing of your documents, complete the documents, and we pay to file 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. 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). You can find the form online by searching the phrase name change in California.. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Following are the steps to get a new Social Security card: Fill out an application for a new card. By using our site, you agree to our. We also use content and scripts from third parties that may use tracking technologies. 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. In this case, you will simply need to say that you are changing your name back to your previous name after your divorce. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. I am now residing in my own place so I need a PG&E account for my new residence. Step 2 Find legal proof of your former name. Use only blue or black ink on the "Application for a Social Security Card.". Moving to a new home can be one of lifes great adventures if you plan ahead. Privacy Policy, but are not covered by the attorney-client privilege. Some people choose to keep their married names after a divorce, especially if they have children. We cannot provide refunds for fees we collect on behalf of third parties. A self-address stamped envelope. 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. Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your surname. Important:Review your travel calendar! before visiting the DMV to get a new drivers license. 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. LegalZoom provides access to independent attorneys and self-service tools. One if for record-keeping, while the other in an enforceable court order. Youre likely to find places where you need to update your name for several months after your name change is final.   , US Department of States specific instructions for your situation, Proof of address (like official mail in your name with your residential address on it), A certified or original copy of your divorce decree, Proof of United States citizenship (like a passport or certified birth certificate). Ask if you can update your name over the phone. If you took your spouses name when you got married, you may want to reclaim your former name after your 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. The next step is to update your important financial accounts. Changing your name can be a lengthy process. If you havent already, make sure you update your name with online shopping services and streaming services. The National Center for Health Statistics put together a helpful. For complete information about the cookies we use, data we collect and how we process them, please check our, If you lost your divorce decree, you can get a certified copy by contacting your states vital records office. If you took your spouses name when you got married, you may want to reclaim your former name after your divorce. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. Assuming he is agreeable to the arrangement, it would be quite simple--just contact your utility companies. If you don't feel like mailing these important documents, you can visit your nearest Social Security office. If you are using our Services via a browser you can restrict, block or remove cookies through your web browser settings. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. provide a refund where the spouse refuses. If youre considering getting a divorce, you may benefit from getting a no-fault divorce, which is usually easier and faster. 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 WebPlan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. It is clear to understand and had every single step to do. Yes, its technically your legal last name so its totally up to you whether you keep it or drop it for your maiden or birth name. As with all name change situations, however, you should be sure to update all of your identification and personal records, including the following: Also, be sure to retain proof of your former name such as your birth certificate or old passport in case you need it. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. 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. Human processing experts to help with your states incredibly confusing state filing process. These companies often allow name modification for valid reasons. You will also receive your old passport back with a hole punched through the center along with the documentation you submitted. will help you determine which documents youll need to present in order to update your name with the SSA. Your new Social Security card. 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. However, you may need to pay a processing fee. 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. 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. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Before you head to the DMV, check out your state DMVs website to see if you can set up an appointment. This step may not be necessary if your divorce decree clearly states that youll be changing your last name back to your previous or maiden name, but having your birth certificate or an old passport should guarantee you have enough evidence of your former name. Prove your age and identity. Readmore. Readmore, Our full-spectrum online divorce platform provides simpler, faster, more peaceful optionsempowering our customers to chart their own destinies and seek modern solutions that avoid the pitfalls of an outdated system. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. Utility companies typically require a written application from the new party before such a switch would be made. 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. ), Loyalty programs (airlines, hotels, retail stores, etc.). For tips on how to set up a new utility, scroll down! To be sure you turn service on or off precisely when you want, give the utilities at least three weeks of advance notice. So we think its best to play it safe.