Can you legally change your first name?

Changing your name legally through the court will likely require a fee and a notary, with some exceptions for name changes due to marriage, divorce, or adoption.

Can a first name be changed?

You can legally change your name by filing papers in court. If a judge agrees, they will give you a court order that states your new legal name. You need this order to change your name on identity documents, like your driver's license, passport, or social security card.

Can you change your first name because you want?

You can generally change your name to anything you want, but you must also follow your state's guidelines and restrictions. For example, you may not do any of the following: change your name to commit a crime or defraud a person.

Is it hard to change your name?

Depending on where you live, your legal name change process could be as easy as filling out an online form, or as intensive as attending a formal hearing and getting fingerprinted by the FBI. You'll also need to pay a filing fee, which could cost anywhere from $50 in Hawaii to $450 in California.

Do you need a reason to change your name?

You don't need to have any kind of valid reason to change your name, so long as it is not for any fraudulent purpose, such as avoiding paying a debt or fulfilling an obligation — you are free to change your name at any time.

How to Legally Change Your Name

Why would someone change their first name?

A name change request can come about simply because a person doesn't like his or her name as given at birth. Perhaps they'd prefer something more unique than Britney or Ashley or something less unique than a homespun name that combined parents' names.

What are the consequences of changing your name?

Consequences to Changing Your Name

There can be professional consequences that can be problematic. For instance, all of your bank accounts and credit cards will need to be updated, as well as your driver's license and passport, which means you'll have a lot of paperwork to fill out.

How much does it cost to change your real name?

You'll typically pay the fee for the license, which may cost anywhere from $15 to over $500 depending on your state. Many people opt to change their last name — either to their spouse's, a hyphenated version of both last names, or a combined version. Most states require a court order for the latter.

How long does it take to legally change your name in the US?

Name change actions can take anywhere from a day, to six (6) months (sometimes even longer). The time it takes for name change actions to be ordered/decreed varies not only from state to state but from county to county and courthouse to courthouse as well.

How long does it take to switch your name?

Change your legal name

Then, you'll either have a court date (a hearing) where a judge will make a decision, or the judge may make a decision without a hearing. Once the judge decides, you pick up a court decree (court order) with your new name. The process generally takes up to 3 months.

How common is it for people to change their first name?

According to new figures from Danmarks Statistik, 6,281 people changed their first names in 2021 – the highest figure since 6,315 people did it 15 years ago.

Does changing your name affect your credit score?

Will changing my name affect my credit history? No. Your credit history is linked to your personal information, including Social Security number, which typically doesn't change over your lifetime. If you change your name, your previous credit history — for better or worse — will remain.

How do I change my name with Social Security?

To change your name on your card, you must show us documents proving your legal name change and identity. You also must show us a document proving your U.S. citizenship, if it is not already in our records. You must present original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them.

What is the rule for changing the name?

In the United States, a legal name change can be obtained through a court order and any US citizen has the right to change his/her name through either common law or court procedure. A person may change his/her name at will and operate a business, write a book, or even sue someone under a different name.

Can your first name affect your future?

Does our name influence and determine our fate? While we think that this fact may be pure coincidence, recent studies found that our names have the potential to influence our behavior, physical appearance, career path and life choices, popularity, and how others perceive us.

What is a good genderless name?

What state is it easiest to legally change your name?

Easiest States To Change Your Name

Because of Full Service, by EZ Name Change, California's process is considered one of the easiest and surest ways to get a name legally changed.

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

Expect to wait a minimum of two and a half weeks from the date the SSA receives your application.

How long does it take to change your name on your passport?

The application takes approximately four to six weeks to process. Requesting expedited service will get it processed in just two to three weeks. However, if you need your name change done more quickly, a private passport expediting company can help you get your passport processed as soon as 24 hours if necessary.

Is there a way to change your name for free?

The Social Security Administration has its own form which you can get for free. The good folks at SSI will also let the IRS know about the name change, so you're good to go. When you go to the DMV, you'll just need to bring the certified copy of the marriage certificate and you'll be done.

Can you change your real name twice?

So long as each change of name you do is a genuine change of name, there's no limit to the number of times you can change your name.

How do I legally add a middle name?

A Deed Poll can be used for adding a middle name to your existing name. The Deed Poll will act as legal proof of your new name and enable you to amend your records accordingly. Ready to change your name? Adding a middle name when you have a popular forename and surname helps to make you more distinguishable.

What is the benefits of changing your name?

There are many benefits to a name change

If you have historically made mistakes that were well-known or perhaps even published in newspapers or online, a new name can help ensure that social acquaintances and potential employers will not find those embarrassing stories when researching you.

Who should I tell if I change my name?

The police: If you have a criminal record the police will also need to be notified of your new name. Insurance providers, utility companies, local councils and the electoral roll should also be notified of any change.

How do I choose a name for myself?

Think about the identity that you intend to cultivate, and choose a name that fits with your vision for the new you. You may have connotations about certain names: tough, sweet, adventurous, etc. Pick a name that helps you become who you want to become. Name yourself after someone inspiring.