Legally Changing Your Name After Divorce in California – What You Need

Going through a divorce can be a life-changing experience, and for many people, part of moving forward includes changing their name. Whether you want to return to a maiden name or simply start fresh, California offers a clear process for legally changing your name after divorce. Here’s what you need to know.

Name Change During the Divorce Process

If you are still in the middle of your divorce, the easiest time to change your name is during the divorce proceedings themselves. When you file for divorce or respond to a divorce petition, you have the option to request a name change as part of the paperwork. Specifically, there is a section on both the Petition (Form FL-100) and the Response (Form FL-120) where you can ask the court to restore your former name.

At the end of the divorce, when the court finalizes the judgment, you or your attorney can make sure that your name change is included in the final order. The Judgment form (Form FL-180) will have a place to indicate the restored name. Once the judge signs the judgment, your name change becomes legally official. You can then use the certified copy of your divorce judgment as proof to update your name with the Social Security Administration, DMV, passport office, and other institutions.

Requesting a name change during divorce is usually free and does not require a separate court hearing or additional paperwork beyond the standard divorce documents. It is by far the most convenient time to handle the matter.

Name Change After the Divorce is Final

If you did not request a name change during the divorce proceedings, or if you change your mind afterward, don’t worry — you still have options. In California, you can file a relatively simple form called an Ex Parte Application for Restoration of Former Name After Entry of Judgment and Order (Form FL-395).

This application allows you to ask the court to officially restore your former name without reopening the entire divorce case. The process is typically straightforward. You fill out the form, submit it to the court where your divorce was finalized, and pay a small filing fee if required (some counties waive the fee). A judge will usually sign the order without the need for a hearing, and you will receive a certified copy to use for changing your records.

Importantly, this option is only available if you are asking to restore a name you previously used, such as your maiden name. If you wish to adopt an entirely new name, the process becomes more complicated, requiring a separate civil name change petition. If you are wondering how to change your name in California after divorce or for any other reason, understanding whether you are restoring an old name or requesting a new one will determine the steps you need to take.

Changing Your Name Outside of Divorce

If you want a completely new name rather than restoring a former name, you must follow California’s general adult name change procedure. This involves filing a Petition for Change of Name (Form NC-100) in the civil court, publishing notice of your intended name change in a newspaper for four weeks (unless waived), and attending a court hearing. After the judge approves your request, you will receive a court order that you can use to update your identification and official records.

While this process is manageable, it can be time-consuming and a bit overwhelming, especially if you are unfamiliar with legal paperwork. Many people in this situation opt to use a name change service to simplify the steps. A professional service can guide you through the paperwork, publication, and court procedures to make sure everything is done correctly and efficiently.

Updating Your Records After a Name Change

Once your name change is official—whether through your divorce judgment or a separate court order—you’ll need to notify various government agencies and private institutions. The first places you should contact are:

• Social Security Administration – Update your name on your Social Security card by submitting Form SS-5 along with proof of your name change.
  
• California DMV – Visit a DMV office to update your driver’s license or state ID.
  
• U.S. Passport Agency – If you have a passport, you’ll need to submit a name change request and possibly pay a fee depending on when your passport was issued.
  
• Banks and Credit Cards – Update your name on all financial accounts to avoid confusion or problems.
  
• Employer and Payroll – Notify your employer to ensure your paycheck and tax documents reflect your new name.
  

You may also need to update your name with insurance companies, voter registration, utility providers, and other service providers.

Final Thoughts

Changing your name after divorce is a powerful way to reclaim your identity and start fresh. In California, the process is fairly streamlined if you address it during your divorce proceedings, but you still have options afterward if needed. Understanding the steps and requirements will help you navigate the process smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays. Whether you handle it yourself or use a professional name change service, updating your name can be a meaningful part of moving forward with your life.