How to Change Your Name After Divorce: The Complete Checklist

Published June 3, 2022

Following a recent divorce, do you wish to change back to your maiden name?

As you already know from your prior name change, this is a considerable process.

Continue reading so we can assist you in how to change your name after divorce.

1. Divorce Decree

In the event of a legal name change, your divorce decree will act as the necessary legal documentation. It will allow you to return to your former/maiden name, which you will use throughout the full process of changing your name after a divorce.

In general, the court will issue a divorce decree as a summary of your divorce.

You can have a name change New York without going to court and immediately begin using it. However, most government agencies and businesses (such as the DMV, SSA, and airlines) will not acknowledge your new name without a court order.

2. Proof of Former Name

Since you will be restoring your name, you will need to establish the connection between your present last name and the one you wish to reclaim. This step may not be essential to your name change after divorce checklist if its judgment clearly specifies that you’ll be reverting to your previous name or maiden name, but having your certificate of birth or an old ID should ensure you have sufficient proof of your former name.

3. Update Social Security Administration (SSA)

After having proof of your divorce, you must notify the government regarding your changing of legal name. You must update your current name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) by filing Form SS-5 in person or through mail at your local SSA office.

The following documents are required:

Proof of Identity
Proof of Citizenship
Proof of Name Change
Social Security card

4. Get a New State ID Card or Driver’s Licence

Before you visit the DMV, check the website of your state’s DMV to see whether you can schedule an appointment. It is your best option to avoid a long queue.

We strongly suggest applying for a REAL ID. A domestic flight will require a REAL ID or any type of TSA-approved identification effective on May 3, 2023.

The DMV requires the following documents:

Proof of Identity
Proof of Citizenship
Proof of Name Change
Social Security card
Proof of State Residency

5. Update Passport

Now, you will need to update your passport with your new name. Passport renewal is technically a correction; therefore, you can submit everything via mail.

You must submit the application via mail along with the necessary documentation, your photo, and the required fees. Plan appropriately; your revised passport will arrive in 6 to 8 weeks.

6. Update Trusted Traveler Programs

Make sure that your Global Entry, as well as TSA PreCheck memberships, matches your new passport now that you’ve changed it.

Remember to first update Global Entry before TSA PreCheck if you have both. Global Entry, as well as TSA PreCheck, utilize the same name database, so if you update your name in Global Entry, it will be automatically updated in TSA PreCheck.

7. Update Voter Registration Information

Your updated name must be registered properly with your state in order to vote. In the majority of states, you can change your name online by visiting vote.gov or by downloading and mailing a National Voter Registration Application.

8. Update United States Postal Service (USPS)

The majority of divorces end in a change of address. By visiting moversguide.usps.com, you can change your address for free.

9. Update Employer

Contact your employer’s HR department and let them know you’ve officially changed your name now that you got a new photo ID. This will ensure that your payroll and employer-sponsored benefits match your new name.

10. Update Financial Accounts

The following step is to get all of your important financial accounts up to date, such as:

Insurance
Mortgage
Banks
Credit cards
Investments

11. Finish Up the Remaining Accounts

Start by reviewing your monthly bank and credit card accounts for things that are paid automatically. Expenses such as:

Email Accounts
Phone
Subscriptions
Internet
Loyalty programs
Utilities

No Need to Rush

Many of these modifications can be made simultaneously or in conjunction with an address change. While the list of how to change your name after divorce may appear overwhelming, make only a couple of changes at a time to allow yourself to understand and accept all of the feelings that may accompany the change.

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About The Author

Krizzia Paolyn, is an SEO Specialist and author. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She started her career as a content writer for various digital magazines and renowned publications. It has always been her passion to share her voice, and at the same time, to encourage others to share their voices as well.