Changing your last name in Pennsylvania can involve different steps depending on why you are making the change. The process for changing your name after marriage or divorce is different from the process required when you want to change your last name for another reason.
Changing Your Last Name After Marriage
If you are changing your name after marriage, you can generally use a certified copy of your marriage certificate to update your name with the Social Security Administration, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), and other government agencies and financial institutions.
Resuming a Prior Name After Divorce
If you are resuming a prior name after a divorce, a certified pleading filed with the Court that specifically restores your former name is sufficient to make these updates.
Changing Your Last Name for Another Reason
If you are changing your last name for a reason other than marriage or divorce, you must file a petition for a name change with the Court of Common Pleas in the county where you reside.
Pennsylvania law requires the petitioner to:
- Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check.
- Publish notice of the name change hearing in two newspapers, unless the publication requirement is waived for specific reasons.
- Provide specific documentation showing that no outstanding liens or judgments exist in the counties where you have resided for the last five years.
At the hearing, the judge will determine whether the request is being made for a lawful purpose and not to avoid creditors, criminal prosecution, or other legal obligations.
If the court grants the petition, it will issue a Decree legally changing your name.
What to Update After Your Name Change
After receiving the Decree, you should promptly update your records with:
- The Social Security Administration
- PennDOT for a new driver’s license or identification card
- The U.S. Department of State for your passport
- Your employer
- Banks
- Insurance companies
- Voter registration
- Any other institutions where your legal name appears
The exact process for legally changing your last name depends on the reason for the change, but making sure your records are updated afterward is an important final step.