Publishing public notice of a name change may be required by your state. Undergo Background Checksĭepending on the state you live in and the reason for your name change, you may have to complete an FBI background check and have your fingerprints taken. This could include an application, a petition for name change, and other documents to request the change. If you need help, a family attorney can prepare your petition and assist you with questions along the way. Be sure to check with your local court to obtain all the necessary requirements for a name change in your area. Generally, the six steps for a name change will vary state to state, but the list below is a great place to start. Here, we'll break down the general process for obtaining a name change. It's important to be aware of any restrictions your state imposes on the type of name change you seek, to retain proof of your former name, and to ensure that your financial and other records are correct after the change. The process of legally changing your name differs depending on your state's laws and the reason why you want the change.

Legal zoom name change