How can I legally change my first name?

Find out what fees your state charges for filing the petition. 2. Complete the petition. Fill out the petition form. These forms typically ask for your current name, address, date of birth, your proposed new name, and your grounds for requesting the change.

How much does it cost to change your last name?

In most states, you have to pay a fee (usually $150 to $200) to file your name change petition in court. It also costs a small amount of money to get forms notarized. And if you’re getting married, you may want to pay for additional certified copies of your marriage certificate to use as proof of your new last name. 5.

What are the requirements for a name change?

All applications to change names must be supported by documentary evidence which resemble the acquired name and show the linkage to the previous name, such as a marriage certificate or a deed poll, except where the change is a requirement to protect a vulnerable victim of crime or a witness or where other legislation provides specific requirements.

Do you need a court order to change your last name?

If you decide to change your last name when you get married, you don’t need a court order. Just write your new last name on your marriage license and show your marriage certificate (not license) to places such as the DMV, your bank, and Social Security Administration as proof of your new last name.

When did I legally change my first name?

(She had also married someone else.) To add to his cruelty, he told her that their first child (me) had been named by him after this other woman. I changed my name as fast as I legally could.” ― Brooke C. “I changed my first name when I was over 40 years old.

Why did I choose a new first name?

Every so often, someone would say, ‘Oh, but I like (old name).’ I would reply that they could feel free to use it for themselves. Adopting a new name made me feel liberated. And I get so many compliments on it! When people say, ‘I love that name,’ I like to answer with, ‘Thanks, I picked it myself!’” — Molly Miner

Why did I change my name to Dolly?

Two years ago, I finally formally changed my name to ‘Dolly.’ I was never ‘Chelsea’ and never felt like I identified with my bio-family. Changing my first name allowed me to feel closer to my adoptive family. It was a name my real mother chose for me versus the woman who just birthed me but was never a real mother to me.” — Dolly M.

What do people say when you change your name?

Most people were supportive, though they knew it would be tough getting used to it. Every so often, someone would say, ‘Oh, but I like (old name).’ I would reply that they could feel free to use it for themselves. Adopting a new name made me feel liberated. And I get so many compliments on it!