How to Change a Minor's Name
- 1). Identify the reason for the name change. Especially when dealing with a last name change, the courts will want to know the reason for the name change and how it is to benefit the child.
- 2). Petition the court for a legal name change. This is achieved by filling out the appropriate paperwork for your state. This can be done with the assistance of an attorney or you can visit the county court house in your area and get the required paperwork to do it yourself. At this point, you will be required to pay a filing fee. Depending on the state, you will also need permission from the minor's other parent, who may be required to sign the form as well. Forms will need to be signed in front of a notary public.
- 3). Change your minor child's social security card. Once the court authorizes the name change (a process that can take up to two months), you will need to file for a new social security card. This can be done by visiting your local social security office or downloading the name change form and mailing it in (link provided in resources).
- 4). Change your minor child's birth certificate. This step is just as important as the rest of the process. This can normally be done through your state's Department of Health. Again, this process will vary from state to state and another fee may be charged. This is the final step in the process of changing a minor child's name.
- 5). Change your minor child's school records if they are already registered in school. With your new copy of the social security card and birth certificate, you can change the information the school has on file. Coordinate with the minor child's school administration office.
- 6). Update other vital records. Doctors, insurance companies, dentists, athletic or academic groups will all need to be notified of the name change and supplied legal forms (birth certificate, social security card and legal judgment) so that these records carry forward with the child. Each of these organizations will vary somewhat in how to update the information. Most of the time it is as simple as telling the front desk or making a phone call to get the necessary instructions.
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