Content

• Steps
• Tips

Your last name will not automatically change to your previous or maiden name when you divorce. To change your last name after a divorce, follow the steps outlined in the divorce process in accordance with federal and state laws.

Steps

1. 1 Include a request to change your surname in your divorce application.
   • Obtain the required surname change request form so that the request can be processed. The name of the form varies from state to state, so check with your legal representative or court clerk if you are speaking on your own.
   • Please fill out the form in full to avoid processing delays.If you fill out the form yourself, the court clerk can help you with any questions or concerns on your part.
   • Request a name change during the divorce proceedings. Thus, the request will be fulfilled as one of the conditions for divorce. After the court has approved your request to change your last name and the divorce is final, proceed to the next step.
2. 2 Contact the Social Security Administration.
   • Get the Social Security Card Application form from the nearest social security office. Or download the form from the social security website.
   • Gather the necessary supporting documentation. You will need your divorce certificate, your approved surname change petition, and a document that shows your previous surname (the social security office will accept an expired document with your old surname). Please note that you will need a court-certified copy of the divorce (final decision); ACO requires the official seal of the court and / or the signature of the judge.
   • This court-certified copy can be obtained from the court where your divorce was finalized and finalized.
   • Complete the Social Security Application Form completely and legibly. Submit the form (by certified mail) and supporting documents to the address listed on the Social Security Administration website. Expect to receive a new Social Security card in 7-14 days. If you do not want to send such important documents by mail, visit the nearest ASO center.
3. 3 Contact the Motor Vehicle Dealer and fill out their surname change form.
   • Attach your divorce certificate and current driver's license to the form.
   • Check with your local OTAS for the required forms and steps if you change your registration.
4. 4 Contact credit companies, utilities, and other legal entities required to change your last name.
5. 5 Contact the US Passport Office.
   • If your passport was issued less than 1 year ago, you need to submit the following documentation to the passport office: your valid passport, completed application for change of surname in the passport, data correction, new passport book (form DS-5504), new photo (if necessary) and the original or certified photocopy of the divorce certificate. Send this documentation to the address provided on Form DS-5504.
   • If your passport was issued more than 1 year ago, then submit the following documentation to the US Passport Office: your valid US passport, a fully completed US passport application by mail (Form DS-82), payment for renewal fees, passport photo and original or a certified photocopy of the divorce certificate. Submit these documents to the address listed on Form DS-82.

Tips

• Use only black or blue ink to complete the Social Security Application Form.
• Always use the mailing method with postal ID when submitting applications.
• If you decide to change your last name after your divorce is complete, contact your legal representative for the process and required contributions.