Can I change my first name legally?

The process to legally change your name is the same whether you want to change your first or last name. Although the steps vary by state, almost every state requires you to file a petition with the county court where you live, seeking the court’s permission for your proposed change.

What are the benefits of legally changing your name?

Legally changing your name does offer quite a few potential benefits. First of all, it can give you a fresh start. Whether you want to put a difficult past behind you, escape the attentions of a stalker or start fresh during a new phase in your life, a legal name change can be very empowering.

Is it wrong to change your name?

There is nothing wrong with changing your name purely for the pleasure or fun of having a new name, and we will support anybody who is changing their name for whatever reason (or simply for no reason). Everybody has the right to change their name, at any time, and you don’t need to justify why you have done so.

What are reasons to change your name?

Reasons For Name Change In India

• Marriage. It is a custom in most Indian states for the wife to suffix the husband’s or husband’s family name as her surname.
• Divorce.
• Dislike Current Name.
• Religious Reasons.
• Political Context.
• Change of Gender.
• Identity Makeover.
• Foreign Nationality.

Do I need a reason to change my name?

You don’t need to have any kind of valid reason to change your name, so long as it is not for any fraudulent purpose, such as avoiding paying a debt or fulfilling an obligation — you are free to change your name at any time. However typical reasons people change their name are: because you dislike your current name.

Is Changing name difficult?

While changing your name is a simple process, the same can’t be said for the requirements that follow it. Though most departments don’t charge a high fee for changing your name, they might take their time completing it. When you change your name, expect to wait around in offices to update all your documents.

Why do people legally change their names?

People legally change their first, middle, or last names for a variety of reasons: Major life changes—getting married, divorced, or undergoing a gender reassignment—might catalyze a name change, or people might just hate the name they were born with.

How much does it cost to legally change your last name?

In most states, you have to pay a fee (usually $150 to $200) to file your name change petition in court. It also costs a small amount of money to get forms notarized. And if you’re getting married, you may want to pay for additional certified copies of your marriage certificate to use as proof of your new last name.

Is it legal to legally change your name after marriage?

While a legal document such as a marriage certificate or court granted petition will allow you to change your name, it won’t be truly official until you’ve submitted name change applications with the Social Security Administration, the DMV, and other relevant institutions. 4.

Can you legally change your name to hide a crime?

While you can name yourself some pretty unique things, there are a few concrete rules about name changes by which you must abide. According to FindLaw, most states prohibit changing your name to escape debt, hide from criminal liability, or to commit a crime.