After your wedding ceremony, the joy of uniting lives is often accompanied by the administrative tasks to ensure this change is reflected in your legal documents and accounts. In Indiana, this involves a few key steps.
Firstly, securing a certified copy of your marriage certificate is crucial, as it's the primary document required to initiate the change. You'll need this to update your Social Security card, which is the cornerstone of changing your name across other governmental and financial institutions. However, this journey doesn't end there. You'll also need to update your name with the BMV (Bureau of Motor Vehicles) to obtain a new driver’s license, not to mention notifying banks, insurance companies, and other places where your old name is registered.
NewlyNamed offers an efficient and personalized solution to guide you through every step. Whether you opt for the convenience of our physical NewlyNamed Box or the flexibility of the Print at Home Kit, you’ll have access to pre-filled applications, comprehensive instructions, and easy-to-follow checklists. Our service aims to take the stress out of each step, saving you time and providing peace of mind as you begin this new chapter of your life as a married couple.
Understanding The Legal Name Change Process In Indiana
In Indiana, the legal name change process varies depending on your circumstances, but generally follows these steps:
- Complete Necessary Forms: Obtain and fill out the Petition for Name Change form. If you're changing your name due to marriage or divorce, your marriage license or divorce decree may suffice.
- File Your Petition: Submit your completed petition to the court in your county. There might be a filing fee, so it's good to check with the local courthouse for specific details.
- Publication Requirement: Indiana law typically requires you to publish a notice of your name change in a local newspaper, unless you’re changing your name as part of a marriage or divorce. This step ensures transparency in the name change process.
- Attend a Court Hearing: In some cases, you may need to attend a court hearing. This step is more common when the name change is not associated with marriage or divorce. During the hearing, the judge may ask questions to confirm that the name change is not for fraudulent purposes.
- Receive Your Name Change Order: Once approved, you will receive a court order granting the name change. This document is crucial as it allows you to update your name on various legal and identification documents.