Massachusetts Name Change

• Category: Massachusetts Name Change - Marriage - Notification
• State: Massachusetts
• Control #: MA-9087
• Format: Word; Rich Text

Description Name Change Form

This Name Change Notification Package - Brides, Court Order Name Change, Divorced, Marriage form is an extensive package containing forms and instructions for notifying government agencies and others of a name change. Forms and instructions included for Passport, Social Security Card, Voter Registration, Employer, Banks and other Financial Institutions, Clubs and Organizations, Drivers License, Post Office, Insurance Companies, IRS, State Tax Commission, etc. It also contains forms for changing contracts, wills and other legal documents

Legal Name Change in Massachusetts: Understanding the Process and Types of Name Changes If you are a resident of Massachusetts and wish to change your legal name, there are specific procedures and guidelines you need to follow. A legal name change allows you to modify your existing name and obtain a new one through a court-approved process. Here, we will provide you with a detailed description of what a legal name change is in Massachusetts, including relevant keywords and different types of name changes available. Legal Name Change in Massachusetts — An Overview: In Massachusetts, a legal name change is a formal process that allows individuals to assume a new name other than the one given at birth or the name acquired through a previous marriage. It is an important step for those who want to match their identity to a preferred name or correct any errors in their legal name. The name change process in Massachusetts is regulated by state laws, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the procedure. Types of Name Changes in Massachusetts: 1. Adult Name Change: An adult name change is sought by individuals who wish to modify their legal name, typically for personal or professional reasons. This type of name change applies to individuals aged 18 years or older. 2. Minor Name Change: A minor name change applies to children below the age of 18 who seek to change their legal name. These cases usually involve parental or guardian consent and require additional documentation and legal procedures to ensure the minor's best interests are protected. 3. Marriage-Related Name Change: Massachusetts law allows individuals to change their name through marriage. This type of name change occurs when either spouse chooses to adopt the other spouse's surname, hyphenate their last names, or create a new surname altogether. This process does not require any legal documentation beyond the marriage certificate. 4. Divorce-Related Name Change: When couples end their marriage through divorce or dissolution, either party may choose to revert to their former name or adopt a new name altogether. Divorce-related name changes usually require specific documentation and forms to be filed with the court. Process of Legal Name Change in Massachusetts: To initiate a legal name change in Massachusetts, individuals are required to follow specific steps. These steps may include: 1. Obtain and complete the necessary forms: Begin by acquiring the official name change forms from the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court website or the local courthouse relevant to your jurisdiction. These forms usually include a petition for name change and supporting affidavits. 2. Submit required documents: Attach the necessary supporting documents, such as identification proof, birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees (if applicable), and any additional documentation specific to your case. 3. File the forms with the court: Once all the forms and supporting documents are complete, file them with the appropriate court. Pay the filing fees, if applicable. 4. Schedule a court hearing: After filing the forms, you will be assigned a court hearing date where a judge will review your documentation and hear your case. During the hearing, you may be required to testify and provide reasons for your name change. 5. Publish a legal notice: Following the court hearing, you may need to publish a legal notice in a local newspaper, announcing your intent to change your name. This notice serves to inform the public and allows anyone with objections to come forward. 6. Obtain the court order: If the court approves your name change, they will issue a court order granting the name change. 7. Update your identification and records: Once you receive the court order, update your identification documents (e.g., social security card, driver's license, passport, bank accounts) to reflect your new legal name. Keywords: Legal name change, Massachusetts, legal process, adult name change, minor name change, marriage-related name change, divorce-related name change, official forms, court hearing, court order, identification documents.