Texas Application for Change of Name Certificate
Understanding this form
The Application for Change of Name Certificate is a legal document used to officially request a certificate reflecting a change of name as ordered by a court. This form is essential for individuals who have undergone a legal name change and need documentation to confirm the change for personal, professional, or legal purposes. It differs from other name change forms by specifically providing a certificate that validates the name change granted by the court.
What’s included in this form
- Applicantâs personal information: Includes fields for driver's license number and social security number.
- Previous name: Section to specify the individual's name before the change.
- New name: Field to enter the name to which the individual has changed.
- Date of name change: Documenting the exact date on which the name change was ordered by the court.
- Certification: Signature line for the Deputy District Clerk certifying the name change.
Situations where this form applies
This form should be used when an individual has legally changed their name and requires an official certificate to reflect the change. It is commonly needed for updating records with government agencies, financial institutions, and for personal identification purposes. Scenarios include when someone changes their name after marriage, divorce, or for personal reasons.
Intended users of this form
- Individuals who have legally changed their name through a court order.
- People needing official documentation for purposes such as updating identification or financial accounts.
- Anyone who has received a court order for a name change and seeks to obtain a formal certificate.
Instructions for completing this form
- Enter the cause number and court number as provided in your court documentation.
- Fill in your driver's license number and social security number for identification purposes.
- Specify your previous name and the name to which you are changing.
- Document the date the name change was ordered by the court.
- Sign the application and ensure the Deputy District Clerk also signs it to validate the certificate.
Notarization guidance
This form does not typically require notarization unless specified by local law. However, always check with local court rules to ensure compliance with any additional requirements.
Typical mistakes to avoid
- Leaving the cause number or court number blank or incorrect.
- Failing to sign the application, which can render it invalid.
- Entering the wrong previous name or new name, which could lead to complications.
- Not including the required identification numbers (driver's license and social security numbers).
Why use this form online
- Convenient downloading: Access the form from anywhere and complete it at your convenience.
- Editability: Easily fill out or modify fields before finalizing your application.
- Reliability: Forms are drafted by licensed attorneys to ensure accuracy and compliance with legal standards.
Summary of main points
- The Application for Change of Name Certificate is crucial for anyone who has changed their name and needs legal documentation.
- Ensure all personal information is accurate and complete to avoid delays.
- Check state-specific requirements to ensure compliance with local laws.
Form popularity
FAQ
You will pay a filing fee of about $300 at the District Clerk's Office. If you have a low income, or are on government benefits because you have a low income, or you cannot pay court fees, you may file a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs form to ask the Court to waive court and filing fees.
The two essential forms required for applying for a legal name change are the Petition for Change of Name of Adult Form and the Order Granting Change of Name of Adult Form. Download them both and fill them out.
Apart from Texas Vital Statistics ? which amends birth certificates in cases of typographical errors ? there is no state agency that handles a request for a name change. A legal name change requires petitioning the courts for a court order.
The court filing fee may be between $150 - $300 depending on where you live. Contact the district clerk's office in your county to learn the filing fee for an adult name change.
Copies and Certificates Online using SOSDirect. Instructions for ordering using SOSDirect. By phone: (512) 463-5578. By email: corpcert@sos.texas.gov. By mail: Certifying Team. Secretary of State. P. O. Box 13697. Austin, Texas 78711-3697.
Name change actions can take anywhere from a day to six (6) months (sometimes even longer). The time it takes for such action to be ordered/decreed varies not only from county to county, but sometimes from courthouse to courthouse as well.
In some states you have to appear at a brief court hearing before a judge to have your name change approved. It can take several weeks or months to receive your certificate of name change, again depending on the state. You may have to pay an additional fee for a certified copy of the name change.
Apart from Texas Vital Statistics ? which amends birth certificates in cases of typographical errors ? there is no state agency that handles a request for a name change. A legal name change requires petitioning the courts for a court order.
