How to Change My Whole Name
- 1). Visit the US Legal website and click on the link for your state to view the paperwork required to change your name legally. Download the forms from the website or contact the local government office for your state to request the forms by mail.
- 2). Complete the forms in full. Include a petition (sometimes called a deed poll) for change of name, an order granting change of name, a legal backer form and a notice of petition to the public, as per instructions. Include an affidavit of service of notification to authorities if you are an attorney or an ex-convict.
- 3). Make copies of all forms for your records. Take them to be notarized or signed by a court clerk. Send your notarized paperwork to your appropriate state office. Wait to receive the affidavit.
- 4). Advertise your new name in your local newspaper or on a courthouse bulletin board, as per the requirements for your state. This gives the public the opportunity to object to your name change (if for example you owe money under your original name).
- 5). Complete the affidavit and return it to the court clerk. Receive your order granting your change of name, which you can use as identification until you have a passport and other documents in your new name.