If you are looking to change your name in Alabama, there are several steps that you need to take. From filling out the necessary forms to notifying government agencies, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about changing your name in the state of Alabama.
Understanding the Process of Changing Your Name in Alabama
Changing your name is a personal decision that can have various reasons. However, it is important to understand the process of changing your name in Alabama to ensure that it is done properly. The process of changing your name in Alabama involves filing a petition with the court and attending a hearing.
Reasons for Changing Your Name in Alabama
There are various reasons why individuals decide to change their name in Alabama. Some common reasons include:
- Name Change After Divorce
- Name Change After Marriage
- Personal preference or identity
- Correcting errors on the birth certificate or other legal documents
- Cultural, religious, or gender-related reasons
- Legal Requirements for Changing Your Name in Alabama
- Be at least 19 years of age
- Be a resident of Alabama for at least six months
- Have no felony convictions
- Have no outstanding warrants
- Have no pending criminal charges
- Have no bankruptcy cases pending
How to Change Your Name in Alabama: Step-by-Step Guide
Obtain a Petition for Name Change form
The first step in changing your name in Alabama is to obtain a Petition for Name Change form. You can download this form from the Alabama State Bar website or obtain it from the probate court in the county where you live.
Complete the Petition for Name Change form
After obtaining the form, you need to fill it out completely and accurately. The form will require you to provide personal information, including your current name, the name you want to change to, and the reason for the name change.
File the Petition for Name Change form
Once you have completed the form, you need to file it with the probate court in the county where you live. You will also need to pay a filing fee, which varies by county.
Obtain a Hearing Date
After filing the petition, you will receive a hearing date. You will need to attend this hearing to provide a reason for the name change and answer any questions that the judge may have.
Attend the Hearing
At the hearing, the judge will review your petition and ask you questions about the reason for the name change. If the judge approves the name change, you will receive an Order Granting Name Change.
Obtain Certified Copies of the Order Granting Name Change
To change your name in Alabama, you need to obtain certified copies of the Order Granting Name Change from the court clerk's office where your name change was granted. These copies are essential for updating your name with government agencies and institutions, such as the Social Security Administration and the Alabama Department of Public Safety. You may need to pay a fee to obtain these certified copies, and the number of copies required may vary depending on the agency or institution you need to update your name with.
Update Your Name with Social Security Administration
After obtaining the certified copies of the Order Granting Name Change, you will need to update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA). You can do this by completing the application for a Social Security card and submitting it to your local SSA office along with the certified copies of the Order Granting Name Change.
Update Your Name with the Alabama Department of Public Safety
You also need to update your name with the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS). You can do this by submitting the certified copies of the Order Granting Name Change to your local DPS office along with your current driver's license or state-issued identification card.
Update Your Name with Other Government Agencies and Institutions
Finally, you need to update your name with other government agencies and institutions, such as your bank, employer, insurance companies, and other organizations. You will need to provide them with the certified copies of the Order Granting Name Change and any other documentation they require.
Tips for Changing Your Name in Alabama
- Start the process early to avoid delays
- Keep a copy of all the forms and documents you submit
- Notify everyone of your new name, including friends, family, and colleagues
- Consider hiring a lawyer to assist you with the process
- Be patient and stay organized
If you are changing your name due to marriage, you can request to have your maiden name restored as part of the name change process.
Changing your name due to divorce, you may be able to request a name change as part of the divorce decree. This can streamline the process and save you time and money.
You will need to provide documentation of the legal name change when filing your petition in Alabama.
If you have any concerns about your safety or privacy due to changing your name, you may be able to request that your new name be kept confidential.
It's important to update your name with all necessary agencies and institutions as soon as possible after the name change is granted to avoid any potential issues or delays.
