A GUIDE TO LEGALLY CHANGING YOUR NAME IN INDIANA
Discover how to legally change your name in Indiana. Follow our step-by-step guide for marriage, divorce, and personal preference name changes.
If you are an adult living in Indiana, you can change your name by following these steps:
Fill out the Indiana name change forms. You can find these forms online or at your county's clerk of court's office.
Indiana Legal Help provides forms and instructions on how to use them for name changes.
File the forms with the clerk of the court's office. You will need to pay a filing fee.
Publish a notice of your name change in a local newspaper. The notice must be published for three weeks.
Attend a court hearing. The judge will decide whether or not to grant your name change request.
You must get a new Social Security card and driver's license if your name change is granted. You must also update your voter registration information and any other personal records.
Here are some additional tips:
If you are changing your name after getting married or divorced, you may have different requirements. Contact the clerk of court's office for more information.
If you are unable to afford the filing fee, you may be able to get a waiver. Contact the clerk of court's office for more information.
If you feel unsafe making your name change petition public, you may be able to file for a confidential name change. Contact the clerk of court's office for more information.
I hope this is helpful!
Changing your name legally in the state of Indiana is a straightforward process, but it does require some paperwork and adherence to specific legal steps. Whether you're getting married, divorced, or simply want to adopt a new name, this guide will walk you through the necessary procedures.
1. Understand the Reasons for Your Name Change:
Before you begin the legal process, it's essential to have a clear understanding of why you want to change your name. Indiana law allows name changes for various reasons, including marriage, divorce, personal preference, gender transition, or religious beliefs. Knowing your motivation will help you choose the appropriate path for your name change.
2. Common Reasons for Name Changes in Indiana:
Marriage: When getting married in Indiana, you can change your last name to your spouse's last name or choose a hyphenated combination of both names.
Divorce: If you're divorcing and wish to revert to your former name, you can include this request in your divorce decree.
Personal Preference: If you simply want to change your name for personal reasons unrelated to marriage or divorce, you can do so through a legal name change petition.
3. Legal Name Change Petition:
If you're changing your name for reasons other than marriage or divorce, you'll need to file a legal name change petition in the appropriate county court. Here are the steps to follow:
a. Obtain the necessary forms: Visit the county courthouse or the court's website to obtain the required forms for a name change petition.
b. Complete the forms: Fill out the name change petition forms accurately and legibly. Make sure to provide the court with your current and desired new name, along with your reasons for the change.
c. Pay the filing fee: There is usually a filing fee associated with a name change petition in Indiana. The fee amount can vary by county, so check with your local courthouse for the current rates.
d. File the petition: Submit your completed forms and pay the filing fee at the county courthouse where you reside.
e. Attend the court hearing: Once your petition is filed, the court will schedule a hearing to review your request. You will need to attend this hearing and explain your reasons for the name change to the judge.
f. Wait for the court order: If the judge approves your name change, they will issue a court order. You can then use this order to update your identification, such as your driver's license, Social Security card, and passport.
4. Updating Identification and Records:
After you've received the court order, it's crucial to update your identification and records to reflect your new name:
Driver's License: Visit your local Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office to update your driver's license with your new name. You'll need to bring your court order, current license, and proof of residency.
Social Security Card: Visit a Social Security Administration office to update your Social Security card with your new name. You'll need to provide your court order and complete the necessary paperwork.
Passport: If you have a U.S. passport, you'll need to submit an application for a new passport with your updated name. Include a copy of your court order as proof of your name change.
Bank Accounts and Other Records: Notify your bank, employer, and any other relevant institutions of your name change. They may require a copy of your court order as well.
5. Notify Friends, Family, and Contacts:
Don't forget to inform your friends, family, and important contacts of your name change. This will help ensure a smooth transition to your new identity.
Changing your name legally in Indiana can be a meaningful step towards embracing a new chapter in your life. By following the proper procedures and updating your identification and records, you can make the transition as seamless as possible. Remember to consult your local county court for specific forms, fees, and procedures as they may vary by jurisdiction. Whether you're changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or personal preference, Indiana law provides a clear path to help you achieve your desired name change.
