How to legally change your last name after you get divorced

A new chapter, a new name! Embracing the next stage of your life often involves significant changes — and for many, this includes altering names post-divorce.

Whether it’s about returning to your maiden name or changing your children’s surnames, each step in this process is a meaningful stride toward a new identity.

Here’s a look at how to navigate changing from your married name back to your previous name (or another surname) smoothly and confidently.

Emotional and practical considerations of changing your last name

Changing your name back to your maiden name after a divorce isn’t just a legal procedure, but might take you on an emotional journey that intertwines with your sense of self and your social relationships.

This decision can have various emotional, personal, and practical implications, especially when it comes to the dynamics with your children.

Emotional considerations

1. Sense of identity: Reverting to your maiden name can be empowering — symbolizing a return to your roots and individuality. However, for some, it might also bring up mixed emotions about the past and the journey ahead.
2. Closure and moving forward: This change can represent closure from a significant chapter in your life, marking a new beginning. It can be a step towards healing and redefining oneself.
3. Family and social dynamics: The decision might affect family members and friends. It’s essential to be prepared for varied reactions and be open to discussions about your choice.

Identity implications

1. Personal branding: Professionally, your name might be tied to your brand or reputation. Changing it could require rebuilding or reestablishing your professional identity.
2. Consistency with children: If your children retain their father’s surname, this may result in different last names within the family, which might need some adjustment and explanation, especially in social or school settings.

Practical considerations

1. Document updates: Changing your name involves updating all legal documents, accounts, and records, which can be a time-consuming process.
2. Communication with institutions: You’ll need to inform schools, medical providers, banks, and employers about the name change. This can be particularly important in ensuring that there are no issues with legal documents, payments, or communications related to your children.
3. Explaining the change to children: If your children are old enough, discuss the name change with them. Explain your reasons in a way they can understand, reassuring them that this change does not affect your relationship or family structure.

The first steps to changing your name

Changing your surname or reconnecting with your maiden name can feel like a reunion with your past self. Here’s how to make it official:

1. Review your divorce decree: Often, the decree will include a provision for a name change. If yours does, you’re on the right track.
2. Start with the SSA: The first official step is to update your name with the Social Security Administration. Complete the Application for a Social Security Card and provide your divorce decree as proof. (PS: They don’t take photocopies, so you will need the original certified documents.)
3. Visit the DMV: Armed with your new Social Security card, head to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles/Motor Vehicle Division. Requirements can vary by state, so visit a site that lists the various state DMV websites for specific information

List: Where to update your new surname

After your name change is officially recognized, it’s time to notify various agencies and institutions. Now, it’s time to inform banks, credit card companies, utility providers, and the post office about your name change.

This step marks the spread of your new beginning! Here’s a checklist to ensure you cover all bases:

1. Healthcare providers and insurance: Update your name with all healthcare providers and insurance companies. This includes primary care physicians, specialists, and dental and vision plans.
2. Welfare and assistance programs: If you are a recipient of welfare or other state assistance programs, such as WIC, it’s crucial to update your records with them.
3. Alimony and child support agencies: If you receive or pay alimony or child support, inform these agencies of your name change. Consistency in records is key for these payments.
4. The IRS: Ensure your tax records are aligned with your new name. If the name on your tax return doesn’t match what the Social Security Administration has on file, it could delay the processing of your tax return.
5. Your employer: Notify your employer of your name change. This is particularly important for payroll purposes and any employment-related benefits.
6. Special needs services: If you are a recipient of any special needs services, make sure to update your records with them.
7. Passports and travel documents: Update your passport and any other relevant travel documents. A mismatch in names between your identification documents and travel documents can lead to travel issues.
8. Banks and financial institutions: Don’t forget to update your name with all financial institutions, including banks where you hold accounts, credit card companies, and investment firms.
9. Other memberships and subscriptions: This can include gym memberships, magazine subscriptions, club memberships, and any other services where your name is registered.

Embracing the change & your new name

Updating your records after a name change is a thorough process that solidifies your new identity in all aspects of life. It’s a crucial step in ensuring that your new name is recognized in all legal and personal contexts. Remember, each update is a reflection of your fresh start and new journey post-divorce.

Remember, while this decision is deeply personal, it’s also a practical one. Preparing yourself and your family for these changes, both in paperwork and in heart, is key to a smooth transition into this new phase of your life.

ALSO SEE: How to change your child’s last name after divorce