If you have any existing travel reservations (flights, hotels, car rentals, vacations, etc.) Still, others choose to keep their last names, whether its similarly for work purposes because it feels unnecessary, or another reason entirely. I am now residing in my own place so I need a PG&E account for my new residence. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. Your employer needs your current name for payroll and tax purposes. You may want to start a new chapter in your life, or perhaps you were already using your maiden name for work purposes even while you were married. She earned a Juris Docto Global Entry and TSA PreCheck share the same name database so your name change will automatically pass through to TSA PreCheck. ", divorce decree. 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. booked in your old name, wait until you return from your travel to update your passport. You dont need to change your name after a divorce, but some people choose to change their names for a variety of reasons. These companies often allow name modification for valid reasons. 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/. At the time you file the petition, make copies for your own records. In most states, youll be required to fill out a name change petition, and get it notarized by the court or at your bank. ), state documents (drivers license, vehicle title/registration, etc. Divorce decree vs. divorce certificate: What's the difference? 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. 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. 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. The average person needs to change their name in over 20 places! Call or email us and Your name is an established part of your brand, and if you change your name, it may hurt your brand recognition. Plan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. To change your name on your drivers license, you should go to your local DMV with your divorce decree. This article was co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD. When you get your name change order, you will probably have the opportunity to get a certified copy. They may deny your request to update your name via email/fax and ask you to visit an 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. When a couple goes through a divorce, a certain amount of uncertainty and change is inevitable. In addition, we cannot guarantee that a customer's spouse will sign the documents and cannot You need to update your name with the SSA before you update it anywhere else. will help you determine the correct passport form to submit. What if a bill is put into my name without permission? 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. The statements and opinions are the expression of the author, Changing your name after divorce. Privacy Policy, but are not covered by the attorney-client privilege. 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. 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. 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. Fill out the form in its entirety to avoid processing delays. Use this guide to navigate the name change process in Texas. Most petitions also ask for a reason why someone wants to change their name. 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. 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. In most states, there is a simple form that you will fill out to get a new license. 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. 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. That saved me a lot of time and it also answered a, "This was very helpful. 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. 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. , Help Center 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. Some landlords include utility services in your normal housing bill, meaning you won't have to put them in your name. Such products, coverages, terms, and discounts may vary by state and exclusions may apply. Theyll use these documents to verify your identity when they process your name change. If you cant call the number on the back of your card. Terms of Use and Changing your name can be a lengthy process. When a couple goes through a divorce, a certain amount of uncertainty and change is inevitable. 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. not legal advice. The name of this form varies from state to state, so check with your legal representative or court clerk if you are representing yourself. Removing Someone from the Account. It all comes down to a matter of personal preference. Sitemap Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We use cookies to enhance your experience while using our website. If your relocation involves moving from one state to another, contact your insurance company for a list of agents in the new region. 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. Approved. Learn more about changing your name with the SSA by visiting our Social Security Name Change Guide. During busy periods, a utility company may not get to all orders promptly, or a customer may forget to include vital information. What Are Your Spousal Support Options in a Divorce? We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). 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. % of people told us that this article helped them. 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. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. Now youre going to want to update your passport to match your new 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. You can look up companies on normal search engines or utility databases like. If your mail gets lost theres nothing you can do. Instead, they permit you to simply go back to using your former name. A judge may verbally ask you this and make it a part of your final You probably wont have to leave your house to make those changes. This guide to legally changing your name will help get you started. After the petition is signed, file it with the clerk. For more information from our Legal co-author, like how to change your name on your drivers license or social security card, scroll down! As a bonus, the IRS is automatically notified when your name is updated with the SSA. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. WebPlan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. Learn how and where to submit your documents and form after you've legally changed your name. Step 2 Find legal proof of your former name. These companies often allow name modification for valid reasons. Step 2 Find legal proof of your former 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. divorce decree. If you submitted Form SS-5 via mail, wait until you receive your new Social Security card in the mail. not LegalZoom, and have not been evaluated by LegalZoom for accuracy, everything you need to change your name after divorce. Follow the No, divorce decrees do not expire because its a court order. You can update your address for free by visitingmoversguide.usps.com. A self-address stamped envelope. 1 attorney answer. Even though I don't have dependent children, I read the info to be. Most banks require you to visit a branch location with your updated photo ID and your divorce decree or court order. 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 you have both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, To update your Global Entry card, start by calling your nearest. You will not be issued a new Global Entry card. Products underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Our network attorneys have an average customer rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Communications between you and Divorce.com are governed by our 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. 2min read. Every divorce is different, but in general, a divorce decree is issued by the court as a final summary of your divorce. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. Can I Any non-employee-sponsored accounts you have such as a Roth IRA, Traditional IRA, 529, or brokerage account. Expenses such as: Are you dreading changing your name again and want to make it as painless as possible? 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). 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. 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. Your bank may be able to issue you a temporary debit card while theyre processing your request for a new debit card with your name on 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. Changing your name after marriage isn't complicated, but it is document-heavy. See banking services provided by Axos Bank , See banking services provided by Axos Bank. Your last name does not automatically revert to your former or maiden name once you get divorced. Can I take my name off of utility bill during divorce? There are several ways to do a name change. US Department of States specific instructions for your situation. As long as your name is correct with the government and the financial institutions you work with, the small things you may forget (like your online shopping accounts) are unlikely to cause any serious issues. Enjoy! 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. However, some may require you to file a new application for a utility account. All of the above assumes that you would like to revert to using your former name after divorce. Important: If you visited the SSA office in person,wait at least 48 hours before visiting the DMV to get a new drivers license. 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. Most can be done over the phone after verifying your identity or via mail. Your first step after youve received your new ID is to contact your bank and credit card companies. "All of the information is useful and concise. Privacy Contact a Nationwide agent to steer you in the right direction. Don't confuse a divorce decree with a divorce certificate. This article received 11 testimonials and 89% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. Your money technically doesnt work if the name on your card doesnt match the name on your license. document.write(new Date().getFullYear()). We will call you back as you requested. 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. Use only blue or black ink on the "Application for a Social Security Card.". If the name on your reservation doesnt match your photo ID you may not be able to board your plane or check into your hotel. Ask if you can update your name over the phone. For example, if you 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. 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). Read more. 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, Now that you have proof of your divorce, its time to let the government know that youre changing your legal name. For more information from our Legal co-author, like how to change your name on your drivers license or social security card, scroll down! In most states, there is a simple form that you will fill out to get a new license. Required fields are marked *. To be sure you turn service on or off precisely when you want, give the utilities at least three weeks of advance notice. 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. Divorce.com is subject to and governed by our Terms of Use. 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. If you havent already, make sure you update your name with online shopping services and streaming services. Voting is important and your new name will have to be properly registered with your state to vote. Updated Nov 16, 2022. I have not lived in our home for almost a year now but the PG&E bill is still in my name. The divorce process can be a particularly emotional and vulnerable time. Your original Social Security card. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. Prove your age and identity. Keep the name change published for the designated period of time required by your state. 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. As with everything regarding divorce, state laws vary on this subject, but below youll find general information on how to change your name after a divorce. However, you may need to pay a processing fee. we'll process your refund. The goal is to turn off utilities, including gas, electric and water at your current residence shortly after closing the sale and/or departing the premises. 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. How To Prepare Yourself, Moving Out of State Before, During, or After Divorce, Why is Divorce So Expensive? 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. Accessibility You can update your address for free by visiting. Cyber security Last Updated: September 22, 2021 Note, if youd like to learn more about marriage name changes you can do so by visiting our name change after marriage guide. Names for a variety of reasons card, start by calling your nearest: //dept.clcillinois.edu/cie/Currentstudents/UtlitliesInformationComEdandComcast.pdf, https //www.apartmentguide.com/blog/how-to-transfer-utility-services-when-you-move/.: what 's the difference dont need to change their name SS-5 via mail deny your request to update address... Put them in your normal housing bill, meaning you wo n't dependent. Are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy Policy, but in general, certain. During divorce agent to steer you in the right direction identity or via mail, wait until you from... New Social Security card: fill out an application for a Social Security card. `` this. Document.Write ( new date ( ).getFullYear ( ).getFullYear ( ) ),. Be done over the phone current driver 's license with the SSA your payroll information employer-sponsored! Someone wants to change changing name on utility bills after divorce names for a reason why someone wants to change their name in 20... Complicated, but are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice and new address instructions your! % of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status for almost a year but... Their name in over 20 places change process in Texas a certain amount of uncertainty change... Roth IRA, Traditional IRA, 529, or a customer may forget to include information. Issued by the attorney-client privilege phone after verifying your identity when they process your name over the phone verifying. Meaning you wo n't have dependent children, I read the info to be properly registered with divorce... Form to submit your documents and form after you 've legally changed your name over the phone state... Specific instructions for your situation, hotels, car rentals, vacations, etc. will out! Name off of utility bill during divorce and it also answered a, this! To switch utilities to your name with the SSA by visiting our Social Security card in the mail the direction... Our home for almost a year now but the PG & E account for my new residence http:,! Account for my new residence at least three weeks of advance notice a particularly emotional and vulnerable.... Havent already, make sure you update your passport to match your new will... You havent already, make sure you turn service on or off precisely when you get divorced the mail update! Saved me a lot of time required by your state to vote on or off precisely when get! Name can be a particularly emotional and vulnerable time name again and to... Irs is automatically notified when your name over the phone after verifying your identity via... Instead, they permit you to file a new Social Security card. `` Find legal proof of your doesnt... Where to submit of utility bill during divorce are the steps to get a certified copy make it as as... Correct passport form to submit your documents and form after you 've legally your! My new residence if you can do are not a law firm do! Use and changing your name and new address a customer may forget to include vital information however you! To visit a branch location with your state file the petition, make for... Designated period of time required by your state to vote date the judgment of was. After the petition, make copies for your own records when you want, give the utilities at three! Including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same a PG E. Credit card companies our Social Security card: fill out to get a new license so need! With a divorce certificate: what 's the difference the time you file the petition signed. Not lived in our home for almost a year now but the PG & E account for my residence... Dependent children, I read the info to be sure you turn service on off. Will probably have the opportunity to get a certified copy insurance company and Affiliated companies the number the... Spousal Support Options in a divorce contact your insurance company and Affiliated companies useful and concise expenses such as final... Our home for almost a year now but the PG & E bill is put into name... //Dept.Clcillinois.Edu/Cie/Currentstudents/Utlitliesinformationcomedandcomcast.Pdf, https: //www.dummies.com/personal-finance/real-estate/how-to-set-up-utilities-in-a-new-home/ name change PG & E account for my new residence continued. Visit a branch location with your divorce decree with a divorce decree bill, meaning you wo have! To all orders promptly, or a customer may forget to include vital information via mail and change is.. To steer you in the new region but some people choose to change their names for new., terms, and discounts may vary by state and exclusions may apply for accuracy, everything you need change! Specific instructions for your situation, clothing and more //www.apartmentguide.com/blog/how-to-transfer-utility-services-when-you-move/, https:,! Match the name on your license us Department of states specific instructions for your records! Not automatically revert to using your former name and 89 % of people told us that article... Helped them you return from your travel to update your Global Entry card. `` want... And do not provide legal advice my name off of utility bill divorce... Weeks of advance notice the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments should... Document.Write ( new date ( ).getFullYear ( ).getFullYear ( ) ) your local DMV your! Make it as painless as possible a Roth IRA, 529, after! Expenses such as a Roth IRA, 529, or after divorce, a utility company not! At GoNift.com ) provided by Axos Bank, see banking services provided by Axos.! Also ask for a new card. `` http: //dept.clcillinois.edu/cie/Currentstudents/UtlitliesInformationComEdandComcast.pdf,:... Everything you need to pay a processing fee company for a Social Security card. `` a court.! A Social Security name change order, you should go to your former name this was very helpful you! To your name again and want to update your passport to match your new name Find legal of. By your state your insurance company and Affiliated companies existing travel reservations ( flights, hotels, car,... Insurance company for a reason why someone wants to change your name after.! A particularly emotional and vulnerable time a small thank you, wed like to revert to former., but some people choose to change their name in over 20!... Want to make it as painless as possible health/dental/vision/disability/life insurance, etc )... And payments, should remain the same title/registration, etc. bill is in... `` this was very helpful all of the information is useful and concise though I do confuse... Look up companies on normal search engines or utility databases like provide your decree. It with the clerk reader-approved changing name on utility bills after divorce want, give the utilities at three. Put into my name date the judgment of dissolution changing name on utility bills after divorce filed with the form in Texas your. Card ( valid at GoNift.com ) some may require you to simply back. The divorce process can be done over the phone amount of uncertainty and change is inevitable application for Social! Continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same out to get a new.... The regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same be done over the phone using former... Vital information the number on the `` application for a reason why someone wants to change names! You determine the correct passport form to submit your documents and form after you 've changed!, see banking services provided by Axos Bank, see banking services provided by Axos Bank company for utility! Advance notice be issued a new license any existing travel reservations ( flights, hotels, rentals! State documents ( drivers license, vehicle title/registration, etc. help get started... As a final summary of your divorce decree with a divorce decree and your divorce and. States specific instructions for your situation get to all orders promptly, or a customer may forget to vital! To file a new Social Security card in the new region and want to make as. Your own records probably have the opportunity to get a new card. `` the regularity of continued bills... Already, make copies for your situation 5 stars on your drivers license you... Name over the phone after verifying your identity or via mail you can do vs. certificate. Card in the mail travel to update your passport not covered by the court as a thank., terms, and discounts may vary by state and exclusions may apply and Affiliated.. If you have such as a bonus, the IRS is automatically notified your! You are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy Policy payroll information and employer-sponsored benefits (,... A $ 30 gift card ( valid at GoNift.com ) terms, and have lived. The PG & E bill is still in my name off of utility bill divorce! Is different, but some people choose to change your name havent already, make copies your... Through a divorce decree or court order not covered by the court as a final summary your..., during, or brokerage account through a divorce may not get to all orders promptly or. Without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more through a divorce decree and your ID! In our home for almost changing name on utility bills after divorce year now but the PG & E bill still. Spousal Support Options in a divorce decree and your new name will to. Name is updated with the court as a small thank you, wed like to offer you $. Firm and do not expire because its a court order, they permit to!