3 Simple Steps to Getting a Name Change After Divorce (and Why You Might Want One!)

For most people, getting a name change after divorce is just one more paperwork nightmare that they’d rather not have to deal with. Even if someone is excited to get their maiden name back, they’re probably still dreading all the red tape that goes along with doing that.

But changing your name after divorce doesn’t have to be a huge hassle.

It does, however, require some planning and forethought if you want to do it as easily and simply as possible.

Should You Change Your Name After Divorce?

Step number one in getting a name change after divorce is deciding whether you want to change your name at all.

That seems pretty basic.

But that simple question goes far deeper than you might think.

Your name is more than just a conglomeration of letters. It’s the way you identify yourself. It’s a statement of who you are.

If you’ve been married for a long time, your identity is likely tied to your married name. Other people – including your business or career colleagues - know you by that name. Your kids share that name with you. Going back to a name you stopped using decades ago may make you feel like you just took a giant step backward in life.

Because of all of that, changing your name after divorce can be a bigger deal than you think. Changing your name can trigger a lot of complex emotions. It can also cause a lot of business, social and practical complications.

What’s more, changing your name after divorce is usually an “all or nothing” decision. Using your maiden name for some things, but your former married name for others, will complicate your life at a level you probably don’t want. Plus, once you make that change and go back to your maiden name, you’re stuck. You can’t change your mind later and get your married name back.

For all of these reasons, you need to be very clear that you want to change your name before you do it.

If you’re struggling to decide whether going back to your maiden name will be right for you, here are some questions you can ask yourself to help you make your decision.

Questions for Figuring Out Whether You Should Change Your Name ... Read More