changing name on utility bills after divorce

Read more. How To Change Your Name After Divorce: An 11-Step Guide Step 1 Get your divorce decree. Then, you need to turn them on at your new dwelling ideally prior to the arrival of the moving van. Expenses such as: Are you dreading changing your name again and want to make it as painless as possible? to help you obtain a certified copy of your divorce decree. Updating your passport is technically a correction so youll be able to submit everything by mail. For example, if you The easiest way to change your name after a divorce is by including a name change request form with your divorce petition, so the divorce and the name change take effect at the same time. Its relatively easy to update your name with the power company or your cell phone service provider. However, you may need to pay a processing fee. Assuming he is agreeable to the arrangement, it would be quite simple--just contact your utility companies. The Social Security Administration will officially process your name change. You can update your name online (in most states) by visiting, Most divorces result in an address change which is why its important to keep your name updated with USPS. Readmore. Lastly, its legal to have more than one electric bill in your name with providers, and the same goes for putting two names on one bill. Now that you have an updated photo ID (drivers license or passport), contact your HR department and inform them of your legal name change. If you submitted Form SS-5 via mail, wait until you receive your new Social Security card in the mail. To be sure you turn service on or off precisely when you want, give the utilities at least three weeks of advance notice. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. Use this guide to navigate the name change process in Texas. In that instance, simply download and print the forms, fill them out, file them in your local courthouse, and follow the rest of your states procedure for name changes. Attorneys with you, every step of the way. Show a certified copy of your divorce decree or court order for a name change (available from your court clerk's office) Show proof of residency or U.S. citizenship. Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. Expect to receive your new Social Security card in 7 to 14 days. Divorce.com is subject to and governed by our Terms of Use. Keep in mind that if you choose to hire an attorney, you should factor in their fees in the costs. The person be sued for fraud for using someone else's name, likeness, or other personal attributes without permission for an exploitative purpose. The company may require additional deposit payments if they have to lend you equipment. Privacy Policy. Then, provide the company with proof of your identity, such as your drivers license, and proof of your billing address, such as your lease agreement. If you have not accessed Go to your California County Clerks Office and bring: A black pen to fill out any forms (black ink is required) Your divorce case number and stamped petition. The average person needs to change their name in over 20 places! wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. The date the judgment of dissolution was filed with the court. An original or certified copy of your divorce decree or court order. Required fields are marked *. How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take? All you need to revert your ID and bank accounts back to your maiden name after you divorce is your decree absolute and your marriage certificate. If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. If you are filling out the form on your own, the court clerk can assist you if you have any questions or concerns. In that instance, simply download and print the forms, fill them out, file them in your local courthouse, and follow the rest of your states procedure for name changes. You can call your utility company and explain the reason for the name change. During busy periods, a utility company may not get to all orders promptly, or a customer may forget to include vital information. Its possible your state requires that you submit a petition after the divorce, similar to anyone else wanting a name change (for reasons other than a divorce).   , Our Philosophy Among the many services your insurance agent may provide is assistance when relocating. For tips on how to set up a new utility, scroll down! Have your current account numbers at each utility if youre shutting down service and a credit card or checking account number if you're activating service; some providers require a deposit and/or a transfer fee. If you cant call the number on the back of your card. Step 2 Find legal proof of your former name. form SS-5 and file it with the SSA. Doctor of Law, University of Wisconsin-Madison. Typically, you can bring the form to your divorce hearing. If you're buying a home, you should be able to get the information from your real estate agent. ", lot of my questions on what steps to take. Some people choose to keep their married names after a divorce, especially if they have children. US Department of States specific instructions for your situation. Putting your electric bill in a persons name without their permission amounts to identity theft, with slight differences when ex-spouses are involved. You can't. care center, unless theres a flaw in our underlying documents. Voting is important and your new name will have to be properly registered with your state to vote. Theyll update your information within their internal payroll process or with their payroll processing company. 1 attorney answer. Your employer needs your current name for payroll and tax purposes. If your passport was issued less than one year ago, you should complete Form DS-5504 which is available athttps://eforms.state.gov/Forms/ds5504.pdf and send it to the Passport Office along with your original or certified name change document, your old passport, and a current passport photo. If you are in a difficult financial situation, it's possible to get a divorce without paying a dime. If you don't feel like mailing these important documents, you can visit your nearest Social Security office. Keep in mind that in some states you may be required to pay a small fee to get a new license. Most petitions also ask for a reason why someone wants to change their name. You need to update your name with the SSA before you update it anywhere else. Similarly, if you purchase a package with If you dont have a passport, you dont need to follow this step. If youd like your passport update to be processed faster, you can pay a $60 expedition fee and youll receive your passport in 2-3 weeks. Accessibility Your first step after youve received your new ID is to contact your bank and credit card companies. If youd like to get a first-time passport after your name change, you can get a first-time passport If youve worked professionally under your married name, it may also be wise to maintain your current name. WebHow to Change the Name on a Utility Bill Name Change on Marriage or Divorce. I would suggest that before you change anything, especially such things as deeds and mortgages, you should speak with a divorce attorney in your area. If youre still making a decision, heres what you should consider about pursuing a name change after divorce. Terms and conditions not legal advice. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. Human processing experts to help with your states incredibly confusing state filing process. If you took your spouses name when you got married, you may want to reclaim your former name after your divorce. This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff. Provide your divorce decree and your current driver's license with the form. So we think its best to play it safe. If you took your spouses name when you got married, you may want to reclaim your former name after your divorce. Prove your age and identity. Each name change kit is personalized based on your information and contains step-by-step instructions and forms for your federal documents (Social Security, Passport, etc. It will allow you to go back to your former/maiden name and youll use it throughout the entire name change after divorce process. While getting a certified copy will probably cost you $10-$20, you will need this official copy to change your name on your other documents. I am now residing in my own place so I need a PG&E account for my new residence. In these jurisdictions, so long as you use your former name consistently, you do not need to file anything further with the state. not sell blank forms. This can lead to legal issues if that person moves out or if your lease requires you to change the bill over. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. What Are Your Spousal Support Options in a Divorce? For more information from our Legal co-author, like how to change your name on your drivers license or social security card, scroll down! Follow the If your mail gets lost theres nothing you can do. If not, youll need to petition for a court-ordered name change. You can find the form online by searching the phrase name change in California.. In general, the person whose name appears on the bill will be penalised for late repayments. When youre deactivating a utility, give the company an address where you can receive your final bill if you don't use online bill-pay services. In most states, there is a simple form that you will fill out to get a new license. Your credit card companies will issue you a new card with your current name. You can find the form online by searching the phrase name change in California..   , Help Center Following are the steps to get a new Social Security card: Fill out an application for a new card. This way theres zero chance of you losing your drivers license, passport, birth certificate, divorce decree, or other very important personal documents in the mail. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. Most banks require you to visit a branch location with your updated photo ID and your divorce decree or court order. If not, youll need to petition for a court-ordered name change. At Divorce.com, we care about our customers and stand by the quality of our Permanent, temporary, lump-sum, rehabilitative, and reimbursement are all types of alimony that may apply to you during a divorce. The complete guide to legally changing your name. Global Entry and TSA PreCheck share the same name database so your name change will automatically pass through to TSA PreCheck. your local Social Security office to see if theyll accept your divorce decree as a legal name change document. Most require you to call customer service and mail in supporting documentation. Prove your age and identity. Change your name online Changing your name after divorce may also be accomplished through online forms if your state requires a petition filed with the court. Youll need to provide the following documents: If youre not a U.S. citizen, visit this link will help you determine which documents youll need to present in order to update your name with the SSA. If you're moving into a new house or apartment, try to schedule the utility service so it starts 1 or 2 days before you arrive. Your Social Security number wont change. we'll process your refund. You should get the necessary name change request form from the court clerk so that your request can be processed. Youll need to contact your states vital records office. Changing your name after divorce may also be accomplished through online forms if your state requires a petition filed with the court. How to Lower Your Sewer (and Water) Bill: Useful Tips & Tricks. It all comes down to a matter of personal preference. Changing your name can be a lengthy process. After the petition is signed, file it with the clerk. As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Moving to a new home can be one of lifes great adventures if you plan ahead. Participating post office locations issue new passports to US citizens. Have your current account numbers at each utility if youre shutting down service and a credit card or checking account number if you're activating service; some providers require a deposit and/or a transfer fee. You can look up companies on normal search engines or utility databases like. You can request a name change by calling the TSA Help Center at 855-347-8371. Application for Social Security Card | SSA, Passport Application & Passport Renewal | USPS, How to Negotiate a Divorce Settlement With Your Spouse, Moving After Divorce: A Comprehensive Checklist, What Is a Divorce Deposition? Among them is switching your utilities. Please call us with the following information: The account details (account number, address, holders etc) The date from which any changes take effect An up-to-date meter reading We are not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. We also use content and scripts from third parties that may use tracking technologies. I have not lived in our home for almost a year now but the PG&E bill is still in my name. Prove your age and identity. Try changing your name online. LegalZoom.com, Inc. All rights reserved. Your current drivers license or ID card. Many utility companies across the country have streamlined services for people leaving or moving into a home. Voting is important and your new name will have to be properly registered with your state to vote. Certain things, however, including the regularity of continued monthly bills and payments, should remain the same. Some states dont require any paperwork at all when changing your name after divorce. While youre at the DMV, you can also update your voter registration with your new name. % of people told us that this article helped them. Nationwide Investment Services Corporation, member FINRA. Gather necessary documentation that must accompany the form. Answers to Getting married or divorced often leads to changes in your surname. Plan well ahead of your moving date to switch utilities to your name and new address. If you're taking over billing responsibilities for a house or apartment, you'll need to put the home's utilities in your name. In that instance, simply download and print the forms, fill them out, file them in your local courthouse, and follow the rest of your states procedure for name changes. To change your name on your drivers license, you should go to your local DMV with your divorce decree. Your email address will not be published. If you havent already, make sure you update your name with online shopping services and streaming services. This guide to legally changing your name will help get you started. A divorce decree is limited in scope and varies by state, but they typically allow you to change your name back to your maiden or previous last name. California Privacy Rights Act Updated Nov 16, 2022. 1) When you break up with someone whom you live with, be sure to have a dialogue about bills and whose name is attached to what so you dont end up in a $nafu. LegalZoom provides access to independent attorneys and self-service tools. Its your best chance to avoid a long line! Changing your name after marriage isn't complicated, but it is document-heavy. WebChanging your name requires a few simple steps to follow: 1. If the courts have finalized your divorce, you can complete an application asking the divorce court judge to restore your former name. The content is In general, the person whose name appears on the bill will be penalised for late repayments. If you fail to transfer the utility, the person named on the original bill remains liable for future payments. Your divorce decree serves as the key to making your name change possible. If you decide to change your name after your divorce has been finalized, contact a legal representative for the process and fees that will be required. Changing your name after divorce. Some companies may require additional documents as well to verify your credit history or employment status. Do Not Sell My Personal Information. All you need to revert your ID and bank accounts back to your maiden name after you divorce is your decree absolute and your marriage certificate. Your new Social Security card. If you want to change to an entirely new last name or to a new name altogether, different provisions are likely to apply to your situation; you may have to file a formal name change petition with the court, for instance. If your passport was issued less than one year ago, you should complete Form DS-5504 which can be found at, If your passport was issued more than one year ago, you should complete Form DS-82 which is available at. As long as your name is correct with the government and the financial institutions you work with, the small things you may forget (like your online shopping accounts) are unlikely to cause any serious issues. If you have any existing travel reservations (flights, hotels, car rentals, vacations, etc.) Mail the form (using certified mail) and supporting documents to address listed on the Social Security Administration website. Its possible your state requires that you submit a petition after the divorce, similar to anyone else wanting a name change (for reasons other than a divorce). To update your Global Entry card, start by calling your nearestGlobal Entry Enrollment Center. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ac\/Change-Your-Name-Step-8-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Change-Your-Name-Step-8-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ac\/Change-Your-Name-Step-8-Version-3.jpg\/aid1474712-v4-728px-Change-Your-Name-Step-8-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"