Changing Your Last Name

Whether or not to change your last name after a divorce is a very personal decision. For many, the choice to reclaim that part of their identity can be a liberating experience. It can also be overwhelming sifting through websites trying to find the long list of documents needed to make that change.

In an effort to help you in the process, I have complied a list of the most common places that will need to be notified of your name change, along with required documents. Some places may only require a verbal notification; others may ask to see your Divorce Decree or Name Change Order (talk to your attorney about how to acquire certified copies of these). When in doubt, call or email to make sure you have what you need. 

TIP: Some companies may want you to email proof of name change. Use a free scanning app such as Tiny Scanner to scan and email your documents, and save them in your phone for ease of use in the future.

Social Security (In-person required)

Required Documents:

Birth Certificate

Certified Divorce Decree or Name Change Order (no copies)

Driver’s License or Passport

https://www.ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf

*Driver’s License (Must schedule an in-person appointment- $9 fee at Secretary of State in Michigan)

Required Documents:

Current Driver’s License

Proof of name change from Social Security

Certified Divorce Decree or Name Change Order (no copies) https://www.michigan.gov/sos/visit 

*If not in Michigan, see your local DMV website for requirements. 

Finances:

Employer

Bank Account

Investment Accounts

Retirement Accounts

Credit Cards

Home and Vehicle:

Mortgage Company or Landlord

Car Loan/Lease

Car Insurance

Home Insurance

Medical:

Health Insurance

Doctor

Dentist

Utilities:

Cell phone

Internet

Cable

Electric/Gas

Water/Trash/Sewer

Services and Memberships:

Streaming Services (Netflix, Hulu, Etc.)

Lawn Care

Gym

Salon

Meal Delivery

Uber/Lyft Accounts

Airlines (Frequent Flyer)

Organizations:

Place of Worship

Children’s Schools/Daycare 

Make a list of any other places specific to your life and situation that may need to be notified, and call or email them to find out what documents are required.