New York Name Change - How To Change Your Name In New York

Want to Legally Change Your Name?

Legal name change forms are available for adults, minors and families.  Download the name change form you need or order our completion services.  If you order completion services, the forms will be completed for you based on the information you provide and reviewed by a professional. Free form descriptions, previews and law summaries are provided.


Name Change Instructions and Forms Package - Minor 
Name Change Instructions and Forms Package - Adult
Name Change Instructions and Forms Package - Family
Name Change Notification Package - Brides, Divorce, Marriage

View all New York Name Change Forms

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New York Name Change Instructions and Forms Package for a Family with minor children
New York Name Change Instructions and Forms Package for a Minor
New York Name Change Instructions and Forms Package for an Adult

Completion services are provided for all name change packages. To order completion services, look for the Submit button in the search results.

Regardless of why you change your name, you will need to notify the appropriate agencies and take other steps to make the name change legal. This also applies to individuals who change their name as the result of marriage.

Learn more by using our Name Change Questionnaire

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New York Name Change Law Digest

Tips for Preparing New York Name Change

  1. Think about all the advantages and disadvantages of changing your name. Before starting the procedure of a surname change and completing New York Name Change, you need to bear in mind that it's necessary to maintain name uniformity throughout your vital papers, such as your passport or social security card. Usually, it's a very time- and resource-consuming process. In some situations, it's better to keep your old name if you want to have the same surname with your kids after divorce or in the interest of your professional development.
  2. Make sure you gather the right set of files. Depending on your scenario - be it marriage and separation, or any other personal circumstances, you need to get all the necessary paperwork ready. For instance, in order to change your name after getting married, you’re required to get a few copies of the executed marriage certificate and submission-ready forms. You can find New York Name Change at US Legal Forms, the most extensive virtual collection of legal paperwork.
  3. Check the restrictions associated with changing names where you reside. The guidelines for name transition vary from one state to another. For example, in some states, a name change after divorce requires you to endure the troubles of doing a lot of paperwork and other actions, whereas these steps are considered needless in other states. All you need to do is change the details in a variety of documents. If you need to complete the New York Name Change, try US Legal Forms. It features over 85,000 forms drafted by legal experts and provides different educational resources to help you get and fill out the documents properly.
  4. Don't use a transition of name form to avoid problems with the legal authorities. You have the right to get or not to get your birth name back for whatever reasons. However, if consider filling out and filing New York Name Change in an effort to hide from loan companies or paying for your child's treatment, it may lead to huge penalties or other consequences.

What is a Name Change Form?

A Name Change Form is a document used to request and legally change a person's name. In New York, the state has specific guidelines and requirements for changing a name. To change your name, you need to fill out a Name Change Form, provide necessary personal information, such as your current and desired new name, address, and contact details. You may also need to attach supporting documents, like a marriage certificate or court order if applicable. After completing the form, you typically need to file it with the appropriate county court or the New York Supreme Court, pay a filing fee, and attend a hearing if required. Once approved, the court will provide you with an official Name Change Order, confirming your new legal name.


When a Name Change is Needed

Sometimes there are situations where it becomes necessary to change one's name. In New York, there are a few common reasons why people might want to do this. For instance, after marriage, some individuals may choose to take on their spouse's last name and would need a legal name change to do so. Additionally, parents may decide to change their child's name due to personal or cultural reasons. In some cases, people may simply want to change their name to better reflect their gender identity. Whatever the reason may be, going through a name change process in New York requires following the necessary legal steps.


Why do I need a Name Change?

There are a few reasons why someone might need a name change in New York. First, some people may want to change their name after getting married or divorced. This is a common reason because it allows them to adopt a new name that reflects their new marital status. Second, individuals might want to change their name for personal or cultural reasons. They may feel that their current name does not match their identity and want a name that better represents who they are. Lastly, some people may need a name change for legal or professional purposes. This could include situations where someone needs to change their name on official documents, such as passports, driver's licenses, or employment records. Overall, a name change in New York can help individuals feel more comfortable and connected to their identity, making it an important and valuable process.


The Consequences of Not Getting a Name Change

Not getting a name change in New York state can have some serious consequences. If you want to change your name but don't go through the legal process, you might run into all sorts of problems. For one, your old name will still be the one recognized by the government and other official institutions. This means you could have trouble getting a driver's license, opening a bank account, or even applying for a job. You might also face complications with your personal relationships since people might not address you by your new name. It's important to remember that changing your name legally is the best way to avoid these negative consequences and make sure that you're recognized and respected for who you are.


What happens if I do not get a Name Change?

If you don't get a name change in New York, it means your legal name will remain the same. This might cause some difficulties and confusion in important situations. For example, your official documents like your driver's license, passport, and social security card will continue to have your old name on them. This can create inconvenience when you need to prove your identity or when you need to update your personal information. It's important to consider changing your name legally to avoid potential complications in the future.