Your name is an important part of who you are. It is not only an identifier but a critical aspect of your identity. That is why many people getting a divorce choose to change their name back to their previous surname.
While reclaiming your name may be an important step for you, you must also be aware that there are many other matters to address in the process of your divorce. With so much on your mind, it can help to know some information about this step, so you can prepare yourself and take all of the necessary steps in stride.
Get the basics on name changes
North Carolina law provides that both women and men can change their names back to their surname after divorce. You may wonder, what is the procedure? Some important factors to consider include:
- When should you change it? That is generally up to you. You can include a request for a name change in your divorce paperwork or the decree. However, you can always make a legal name change after your divorce if you do not include the request there. This process will be much like your name change when you got married.
- What do you need to do so? The petition or divorce decree might confirm the name change. However, you are still responsible for changing your name on any and all official documents. The process will vary depending on the document. For example, changing your name on your Social Security card and your driver’s license will require different documents, applications and steps.
The choice to change your name after divorce and the process you choose to do so are entirely up to you. You can consider your options, and determine what procedure will work best for you.