What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Name Change?

Advantages of a name change

There are plenty of advantages of a legal name change. If you have one that you find embarrassing or that brings the wrong kind of attention, changing it may relieve you of a lot of embarrassment or hassle. One of the best parts is that the sky is the limit. You can choose a name you want, short of something obscene or one that would violate trademark law.

If your goal is to stand out of a crowd, changing from something common to something unique might make sense. If you would prefer to not have the same one as everyone else, changing to something that suits you better is an option.

If you are a newlywed, changing your last name to match that of your spouse is another common reason for the change. While every relationship is different, many spouses feel that sharing this makes a marriage into a more cohesive unit. Alternatively, some spouses might choose to hyphenate it.

Disadvantages of a name change

First and foremost, it isn't free. You will be required to pay for the cost of the petition to change it. In most states, the cost of a name change isn't more than a few hundred dollars, but that amount could be prohibitive for some people. And if you don't have access to a notary public, you may have to pay to have your documentation notarized as well.

Additionally, there can be career consequences for doing this. If you've built a professional reputation under your current title and you make a change, there may be confusion among your colleagues and network. It may affect your business prospects, especially if you rely on your name for marketing purposes.

There are also legal consequences that can make it problematic. All of your bank accounts and credit cards will be in your original name, which means you will have a lot of paperwork to fill out. And if you have a contract or court order, you may need additional documentation in order to enforce them. And while it may be a minor consideration for some, the process of telling people can be a hassle. It could bring about a lot of questions, and you can expect every person in your life to have some for you.

Is a name change right for me?

While there's a lot to consider when it comes to a legal name change, the fact remains that it's an option for you if you decide it's in your best interest. Should you wish to take the next steps in doing so, ensure that you are aware of your state's rules and regulations. Once you're ready, you can complete the process.

Legal name change FAQs

How much does it cost to legally change your name?

Changing your name legally costs between $100 and $500 for court fees, plus extra costs for things like notarization and replacing documents. The exact amount depends on which state you live in and what court you file with. You'll also need to pay for certified copies of your court order (usually $10–20 each), and you should get at least five copies to send to different places like banks and government offices. There will also be costs to updating documents like your driver's license, passport, and other ID cards—these can add up to several hundred more dollars.

What are the main benefits of changing your name?

The biggest benefit is getting rid of a name you don’t identify with. This can help you feel more confident and authentic. For married couples, sharing the same last name can make you feel more united as a family. 

What problems might I face after changing my name?

The biggest headache is updating all your records and accounts, which can take months to complete. You'll need to contact your bank, credit card companies, insurance providers, employer, school, and many other places to change your name on their records. Legal documents like contracts, wills, and property deeds all need to be updated too, or they might not be valid anymore. Socially, some people might not understand or support your decision.

How long does the legal name change process take?

Getting a court order for your name change usually takes 4–8 weeks from when you file your paperwork. However, updating all your records and documents after you get the court order can take 3–6 months or longer. Some states require you to publish your name change in a newspaper for several weeks, which adds time to the process.

Do I need a lawyer to change my name?

Legally speaking, you don't need a lawyer for a simple name change, but having one can help you avoid mistakes that could delay or invalidate your application. Most people can handle straightforward name changes on their own by filling out court forms and following the proper steps. However, if you're changing a child's name, have custody issues, or need to change your name in multiple states, a lawyer can also help.

Can I change my name to anything I want?

You have a lot of freedom in choosing your new name, but the following may be rejected:

• Names meant to commit fraud, avoid debts, or trick people about who you are
• Names that are offensive, contain numbers or symbols, or are extremely long 
• Names that use a trademark in a way that might confuse people 

Some judges might question unusual choices, but as long as your reasons are honest and the name isn't harmful, you'll probably get approval. 

What documents do I need to update after changing my name?

You'll need to update your Social Security card first, then your driver's license and state ID. After that, contact your bank, credit card companies, insurance providers, employer, and any schools you attend. Don't forget about your passport, voter registration, and any professional licenses you have. Important legal documents like your will, power of attorney, and property deeds need to be updated too, or they might not work properly when you need them. Keep several certified copies of your court order handy since most places will want to see the official document.