There are many reasons that an individual may want to change their name, but there are legal steps to follow. In Indiana, the process is somewhat straightforward, but you may wish to retain an experienced attorney to assist you in going through the steps set forth below.
Process
To legally change your name in Indiana, you must file a petition in the county where you live, typically in your county’s circuit court; however, each county has different rules about such cases.
Steps to follow:
- Complete a petition for a name change. In some cases, you must notarize your petition before submitting it.
- Gather required documents, such as a passport, birth certificate, and identification.
- Avoid common mistakes when filing by reviewing state guidelines, or consulting an attorney.
- Ensure you comply with publication and notice requirements.
- Attend your court hearing and request extra copies of your court order for future use.
Organizations to notify when you change your name
Once your name change is legally recognized, update your information with key organizations:
- Social Security Administration
- Department of Motor Vehicles
- Internal Revenue Service
- Passport agency
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (if applicable)
- Veterans Affairs benefits office
- Voter registration office
- U.S. Postal Service
- State benefit programs
- State and local tax authorities
- Employers, banks, and insurance providers
Confirming your name change with these essential organizations can ensure you don’t run into issues with anything that requires legal identification like travel, voting, mail, taxes and government benefits.
Cost
Fees for a name change vary by county. Expect to pay court filing fees, notarization fees, and costs for updated documents like a new driver’s license or passport. Check with your local court for specific costs.
Additional considerations
Legal assistance can be helpful when seeking to change your name. Errors in the process can result in delays, additional costs, or legal complications. If you need help, consider seeking professional guidance from family law attorneys in Indianapolis to ensure everything is handled correctly.