Average Cost of Changing Your Last Name
The cost to legally change your last name typically ranges from $100 to $500, though this varies by state and county. Here’s a general breakdown of the costs involved:
Expense Category |
Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
Filing Fee (Court) |
$100 – $300 |
Certified Copies of Court Order |
$5 – $20 per copy |
Updating ID and Documents |
$20 – $50 per document |
New Passport (if applicable) |
$30 – $130 |
Steps and Associated Costs for Changing Your Last Name
- Petition for Name Change:
- The first step in legally changing your last name is to file a petition with your local court. Court filing fees vary by location but generally range from $100 to $300. Some states allow fee waivers if you qualify based on income. You can verify the exact cost for your state by checking the National Center for State Courts (NCSC).
- Obtain Certified Copies of the Name Change Order:
- Once the court approves your name change, you’ll need certified copies of the court order to update your personal identification documents. Certified copies usually cost between $5 and $20 each, depending on your county. Many states outline these fees on their official websites, like the California Courts and Texas Courts.
- Update Social Security Records:
- Updating your last name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) is free. You’ll need to complete Form SS-5 and provide proof of the name change, such as a certified court order. Details are available on the SSA’s website.
- Update Driver’s License and State ID:
- After updating your Social Security records, you’ll need to update your driver’s license or state ID. Fees vary by state, typically between $10 and $30. Check your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website for exact costs. For example, the fee in California is $28 and in New York is $12.50.
- Update Passport (if applicable):
- If you need a new passport, the fee depends on the type and age of the passport. For example, a new adult passport costs $130. If your passport is less than a year old, the name change can often be done for free with Form DS-5504, available on the U.S. Department of State’s website.
Additional Costs
Some additional costs you might encounter include:
- Bank and Financial Records: Most banks don’t charge fees for updating your name, but you may need to visit a branch with your certified name change documents.
- Professional Licenses: If you hold any professional licenses, check with the issuing agency, as fees may apply to update the name on your license.
- Miscellaneous Documents: You may need to update additional documents, such as voter registration, insurance policies, and work records.
Cost Summary
The total cost to change your last name is typically $100 to $500, depending on your location, court fees, and the number of documents that need updating. For specific costs, you can check your state’s court website or refer to the National Center for State Courts’ directory at ncsc.org.
While changing your last name involves several steps and fees, it is generally affordable, with most costs going toward court filing fees and document updates. Checking your local court website or the National Center for State Courts can help you understand the fees specific to your area and the required documentation.
