Changing Your Name After Divorce in Florida: A Step-by-Step Guide
Changing Your Name After Divorce in Florida: A Step-by-Step Guide
Going through a divorce often signals a fresh start, and for many, that includes changing their name back to a previous surname. If you’re considering a name change after divorce in Florida, the process can be relatively straightforward—especially when it’s included in your divorce judgment. At the Law Offices of Robert L. Bogen, we help individuals in Boca Raton understand and navigate this important step with clarity and confidence.
Step 1: Request the Name Change in Your Divorce Petition or Final Judgment
The easiest way to change your name after a divorce is to include the request as part of your initial divorce paperwork or ask the judge to include it in the final divorce judgment. If the court grants it, the judgment will contain language restoring your previous name—no additional court filing is required.
Step 2: Obtain a Certified Copy of the Final Judgment
You’ll need a certified copy of the divorce decree that includes the name change provision. You can request this from the clerk of court in the county where your divorce was finalized. There may be a small fee, and you may need multiple copies for updating official records.
Step 3: Update Your Social Security Record
Take your certified judgment to your local Social Security office. Fill out Form SS-5 (available online or in-office) and provide proof of identity and U.S. citizenship or legal status. Once processed, you’ll receive a new Social Security card with your new (or former) name.
Step 4: Change Your Name on Your Florida Driver’s License
After your Social Security record is updated, head to your local Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) office. Bring your certified divorce decree, updated Social Security card, and proof of residence. The DMV will issue a new license showing your correct name.
Step 5: Notify Other Agencies and Institutions
Next, you’ll want to update your name with:
- Banks and credit cards
- Insurance providers
- Utility companies
- Your employer
- Passport office
- Voter registration
- Medical providers
- IRS
Each entity may have its own documentation requirements, so call ahead or check online before visiting.
What If You Didn’t Request a Name Change During the Divorce?
If your divorce decree does not include a name change, you can still restore your previous name by filing a separate petition for name change with the court. This process will include fingerprinting, a background check, and a hearing before a judge. While it’s more time-consuming, it’s still a viable option.
Legal Support for Your Post-Divorce Name Change
At the Law Offices of Robert L. Bogen, we assist clients throughout Boca Raton with legal matters surrounding divorce—including name changes. Whether your name change was included in your divorce decree or you need to pursue it afterward, we can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
