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Change your name with confidence using our court-approved petition. Perfect for marriage, divorce, or personal preference. Download instantly in Word format and file with your county court—no attorney needed. Includes petition, verification, and court order templates. Just $9.99, trusted since 1995.
Select your state below to get started.
Related packet Changing your child's name? Use the minor name change packet designed for parent or guardian filings for children under 18.
View Minor Name Change FormsChanging your name is a legal process that must be handled correctly to ensure court approval and recognition by government agencies. This Petition for Change of Name of Adult provides all required documents and clear instructions so you can confidently file your name change in the county where you reside.
Start with the adult name change packet for your state, not a generic national form. The filing language is tailored for the court process where you live.
A signed order lets you update Social Security, driver's license, passport, financial, employment, and other official records under your new legal name.
Complete the forms in Word, or print and complete them by hand. The packet is built for practical self-help filing without online data entry.
The packet includes the core petition, verification, and proposed order language adults commonly need when filing without an attorney.
Download immediately, complete the packet on your own device, and keep control of your personal information. No account or interview workflow is required.
Changing your name is a meaningful personal step. This state-specific packet helps you move from decision to filing with a clearer, more court-ready process. Select your state above to get your adult packet.
How it works
Choose your state, prepare your adult petition, and file it with the appropriate county court.
Get the correct adult name change forms for your state instantly after purchase.
Fill out the editable Word documents or print and complete the packet by hand.
Submit the packet to your county court and follow the included state-specific instructions.
Adults commonly use a court order to document a legal name change after a major life event, restore a prior name, or correct records that need to match a new identity.
Select your state to open the adult name change packet prepared for that filing path. You can use the search box or browse the complete state list below.
It's the legal document filed with your county court requesting official approval to change your name. Once signed by a judge, the order allows you to update all identification and records under your new name.
Any adult U.S. resident may petition the court in the county where they live, provided the name change is not sought for fraudulent or unlawful purposes.
Most courts accept any legitimate reason, such as marriage, divorce, religious or cultural preference, or correcting a spelling or record error.
No. This petition is designed for self-representation ("pro se") filings. However, you may consult an attorney for legal advice or complex cases involving creditors or criminal records.
Typically 4–8 weeks, depending on court schedules and publication requirements. Some states require a short notice period before the hearing.
Many states require publication in a local newspaper. The form includes a "Notice of Petition" template for publication, as required by local law.
Courts generally require your current name, address, date of birth, and reason for the change. Some states also request details about prior names or criminal history.
Possibly. Certain felony or sex-offender registrants must meet waiting periods or provide proof of notification to law enforcement before approval.
No. After the court grants your petition, you must send the certified order to the state vital records office to amend your birth certificate.
Immediately after the judge signs the order. You can then update your Social Security card, driver's license, passport, and other identification.
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ILRG provides self-help legal forms and filing information, not legal advice. State and county requirements vary, so review the instructions included with your packet before filing.