Deciding to change your name is a big decision. There are many reasons why people choose to change their names, including marriage, divorce, gender transition, or simply a desire for a new beginning. No matter what your reason, it's important to know how much it will cost to change your name legally.
The cost of changing your name varies depending on the state in which you live and how you will legally file your name change petition. In general, the costs associated with changing your name include:
The information provided in this article is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended to consult with an attorney or legal professional for specific legal advice tailored to your situation.
How Much Is It to Change Your Name
The cost varies depending on several factors.
- State fees
- Court fees
- Publication fees
- Attorney fees (Optional)
- Name change kit fees (Optional)
- Document change fees
- New ID fees
The total cost can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
State Fees
State fees are typically the largest expense associated with changing your name. The amount you pay will vary depending on the state in which you live.
- Filing fee:
This is the fee you pay to file a petition for a name change with the court. Fees can range from around $100 to $500, depending on the state.
- Publication fee:
In some states, you are required to publish a notice of your name change in a local newspaper. This fee can range from $50 to $200.
- Certified copy fee:
You will need to obtain certified copies of your new name order from the court. These copies can be used to update your records with government agencies and other organizations. The fee for a certified copy is typically around $10 to $20.
- Background check fee:
Some states require you to submit to a background check before your name change can be approved. The fee for a background check can range from $25 to $100.
In addition to these fees, you may also need to pay for the services of an attorney. If you choose to hire an attorney, their fees will vary depending on their experience and the complexity of your case.
Court Fees
In addition to state fees, you may also need to pay court fees to change your name. These fees can vary depending on the court where you file your petition.
- Filing fee:
This is the fee you pay to file your petition for a name change with the court. Fees can range from around $100 to $500, depending on the court.
- Service of process fee:
If you are required to serve notice of your name change petition to other parties, you will need to pay a service of process fee. This fee can range from $50 to $100.
- Hearing fee:
If the court requires a hearing on your petition, you will need to pay a hearing fee. This fee can range from $50 to $100.
- Miscellaneous fees:
There may be other miscellaneous fees associated with changing your name in court, such as copying fees or postage fees. These fees can vary depending on the court.
It is important to contact the court where you plan to file your petition to find out the exact fees that you will need to pay.
Publication Fees
In some states, you are required to publish a notice of your name change in a local newspaper. This is done to provide public notice of your name change and to give anyone who may have an objection to your name change an opportunity to come forward.
- Newspaper fees:
The cost of publishing a notice of name change in a newspaper can vary depending on the newspaper and the size of the ad. Fees can range from around $50 to $200.
- Online publication fees:
Some states allow you to publish your notice of name change online instead of in a newspaper. Online publication fees can be lower than newspaper fees, typically ranging from $25 to $100.
- Proof of publication fee:
Once you have published your notice of name change, you will need to file proof of publication with the court. This may involve submitting a copy of the newspaper ad or a certificate of publication from the newspaper. There may be a small fee for this service.
- Waiver of publication fees:
In some cases, you may be able to waive the publication requirement. For example, if you are changing your name due to domestic violence or stalking, you may be able to request a waiver. Contact the court where you are filing your petition to find out if you qualify for a waiver.
If you are required to publish a notice of your name change, be sure to factor the cost of publication into your budget.
Attorney Fees (Optional)
Hiring an attorney to help you change your name is not required, but it can be helpful. An attorney can guide you through the process, help you prepare your petition, and represent you in court if necessary. The cost of hiring an attorney will vary depending on their experience and the complexity of your case.
If you decide to hire an attorney, be sure to interview several attorneys before making a decision. Ask about their experience with name changes, their fees, and their availability. You should also ask for a written fee agreement before hiring an attorney.
The following are some of the factors that can affect the cost of attorney fees for a name change:
- Complexity of your case: If your case is simple and straightforward, it will likely cost less than a complex case. For example, if you are changing your name due to marriage or divorce, the process is typically simpler than if you are changing your name for other reasons.
- Experience of your attorney: More experienced attorneys typically charge higher fees than less experienced attorneys. However, an experienced attorney may be able to handle your case more efficiently, which could save you money in the long run.
- Location of your attorney: Attorney fees can vary depending on the location of your attorney. Attorneys in large cities typically charge higher fees than attorneys in rural areas.
On average, the cost of hiring an attorney for a name change can range from $200 to $1,000. However, it is important to keep in mind that this is just an average. The actual cost of hiring an attorney will vary depending on the factors discussed above.
If you are considering changing your name, it is important to factor the cost of attorney fees into your budget. If you cannot afford to hire an attorney, there are resources available to help you, such as legal aid organizations and self-help centers.
Name Change Kit Fees (Optional)
Name change kits are available for purchase online and at some legal document stores. These kits typically include all of the forms and instructions you need to change your name in your state. The cost of a name change kit can range from $20 to $100.
Whether or not you choose to purchase a name change kit is a personal decision. If you are comfortable filling out legal forms on your own, you may be able to save money by doing so. However, if you are not sure how to fill out the forms or if you have a complex case, a name change kit may be a good option for you.
Here are some of the factors you may want to consider when deciding whether or not to purchase a name change kit:
- Complexity of your case: If your case is simple and straightforward, you may be able to fill out the forms on your own without a kit. However, if your case is complex, a name change kit may be helpful.
- Your comfort level with legal forms: If you are comfortable filling out legal forms, you may be able to save money by doing so without a kit. However, if you are not sure how to fill out the forms, a name change kit may be a good option for you.
- Cost of the kit: Name change kits can range in price from $20 to $100. Be sure to compare the cost of the kit to the cost of hiring an attorney or the cost of filing your petition on your own.
If you decide to purchase a name change kit, be sure to read the instructions carefully and fill out the forms completely and accurately. You should also make copies of all of the forms before you file them with the court.
Whether you choose to hire an attorney, purchase a name change kit, or file your petition on your own, be sure to do your research and understand the process before you begin.
Document Change Fees
Once your name change petition is approved by the court, you will need to update your name on all of your legal documents. This includes your driver's license, Social Security card, passport, and birth certificate. The cost of updating your documents will vary depending on the document and the state in which you live.
Here are some of the most common document change fees:
- Driver's license: The fee to change your name on your driver's license typically ranges from $25 to $50.
- Social Security card: There is no fee to change your name on your Social Security card. However, you will need to provide proof of your name change, such as a certified copy of your court order.
- Passport: The fee to change your name on your passport is $110. You will also need to provide proof of your name change, such as a certified copy of your court order.
- Birth certificate: The fee to change your name on your birth certificate varies from state to state. In some states, there is no fee. In other states, the fee can range from $10 to $50.
In addition to the fees listed above, you may also need to pay a fee to update your name on other documents, such as your bank accounts, credit cards, and insurance policies. Be sure to contact each organization to find out their specific requirements and fees.
The cost of changing your name on your documents can add up quickly. Be sure to factor these costs into your budget when you are planning your name change.
New ID Fees
Once your name change is official, you will need to obtain new identification documents with your new name. This includes your driver's license, Social Security card, and passport.
- Driver's license: The fee to obtain a new driver's license with your new name typically ranges from $25 to $50. You will need to visit your local driver's license office and provide proof of your identity and residency, as well as your new name change order.
- Social Security card: There is no fee to obtain a new Social Security card with your new name. However, you will need to provide proof of your identity and citizenship, as well as your new name change order. You can apply for a new Social Security card online or at your local Social Security office.
- Passport: The fee to obtain a new passport with your new name is $110. You will need to apply for a new passport in person at a passport acceptance facility. You will need to provide proof of your identity and citizenship, as well as your new name change order.
- Other ID cards: You may also need to update your name on other identification cards, such as your employee ID card or student ID card. The process and fee for updating your name on these cards will vary depending on the organization that issued the card.
Be sure to update your name on all of your identification documents as soon as possible after your name change is official. This will help to ensure that you are able to access all of your accounts and services without any problems.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about changing your name:
Question 1: How much does it cost to change my name?
Answer 1: The cost of changing your name varies depending on several factors, including state fees, court fees, publication fees, attorney fees (optional), name change kit fees (optional), document change fees, and new ID fees. The total cost can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
Question 2: Do I need an attorney to change my name?
Answer 2: No, you are not required to hire an attorney to change your name. However, an attorney can help you with the process, especially if your case is complex. If you decide to hire an attorney, be sure to interview several attorneys before making a decision.
Question 3: What is a name change kit?
Answer 3: A name change kit is a package that includes all of the forms and instructions you need to change your name in your state. Name change kits can be purchased online or at some legal document stores. The cost of a name change kit can range from $20 to $100.
Question 4: What documents need to be updated after I change my name?
Answer 4: Once your name change is official, you will need to update your name on all of your legal documents, including your driver's license, Social Security card, passport, and birth certificate. You may also need to update your name on other documents, such as your bank accounts, credit cards, and insurance policies.
Question 5: How long does it take to change my name?
Answer 5: The amount of time it takes to change your name will vary depending on the state in which you live and the complexity of your case. In general, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
Question 6: Can I change my name back to my old name?
Answer 6: Yes, you can change your name back to your old name. However, you will need to follow the same process as you did when you changed your name the first time. You will also need to pay the same fees.
Question 7: What are some tips for choosing a new name?
Answer 7: When choosing a new name, there are a few things you may want to consider. First, you may want to choose a name that has personal significance to you. You may also want to choose a name that is easy to spell and pronounce. Finally, you may want to choose a name that is appropriate for your profession or lifestyle.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ
Changing your name can be a big decision, but it can also be a very rewarding one. If you are considering changing your name, be sure to do your research and understand the process before you begin.
Now that you know more about the costs and procedures involved in changing your name, here are a few tips to help you make the process as smooth and easy as possible:
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you change your name smoothly and easily:
Tip 1: Do your research. Before you start the process of changing your name, be sure to do your research and understand the requirements in your state. You can find information about name change requirements on your state's court website or by contacting your local court clerk's office.
Tip 2: Gather your documents. Once you know the requirements in your state, you can start gathering the documents you need to file your petition for a name change. These documents may include your birth certificate, driver's license, Social Security card, and marriage license or divorce decree (if applicable).
Tip 3: File your petition. Once you have gathered all of your documents, you can file your petition for a name change with the court. The filing fee for a name change petition varies from state to state, so be sure to check with your local court clerk's office for the fee in your state.
Tip 4: Publish your name change. In some states, you are required to publish your name change in a local newspaper. The cost of publication varies depending on the newspaper, so be sure to shop around for the best price. You can also find online services that will publish your name change for a fee.
Tip 5: Update your documents. Once your name change is official, you will need to update your name on all of your legal documents, including your driver's license, Social Security card, passport, and birth certificate. You may also need to update your name on other documents, such as your bank accounts, credit cards, and insurance policies.
Closing Paragraph for Tips
Changing your name can be a lot of work, but it is definitely possible to do it yourself. By following these tips, you can make the process as smooth and easy as possible.
Now that you know how to change your name, you can start thinking about what name you want to choose. There are many factors to consider when choosing a new name, so take your time and choose a name that you will be happy with for the rest of your life.
Conclusion
Changing your name can be a big decision, but it can also be a very rewarding one. If you are considering changing your name, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, you should understand the costs and procedures involved in changing your name. The cost of changing your name can vary depending on several factors, including state fees, court fees, publication fees, attorney fees (optional), name change kit fees (optional), document change fees, and new ID fees. The total cost can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The process of changing your name can also take several weeks or even months, depending on the state in which you live.
Second, you should choose a new name that you are comfortable with and that reflects your identity. When choosing a new name, you may want to consider factors such as personal significance, ease of spelling and pronunciation, and appropriateness for your profession or lifestyle.
Finally, you should be prepared to update your name on all of your legal documents and accounts. This can be a time-consuming process, but it is important to make sure that all of your documents are updated with your new name.
If you are ready to change your name, there are many resources available to help you. You can find information about name change requirements on your state's court website or by contacting your local court clerk's office. You can also find online services that can help you with the process of changing your name.
Closing Message
Changing your name can be a big change, but it can also be a very positive one. If you are considering changing your name, take your time, do your research, and choose a name that you are happy with. With a little planning and effort, you can change your name smoothly and easily.