Can You Change Your Name If You Want?
Yes, you can legally change your name if you want, provided you follow the required legal procedures and meet the necessary eligibility criteria. The process typically involves submitting a petition for a name change, along with other required documents, and paying a filing fee, which varies by state or county, but is usually under $300.
Understanding the Name Change Process
The process of changing one’s name involves several steps, including drafting an affidavit stating the reason for the name change, which is a legal document used to state facts under oath. This affidavit should include the applicant’s current name, the desired new name, the reason for the name change, and any other relevant details.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What if I want to change my name? To change your name, you will need to draft an affidavit stating the reason for the name change, and then submit a petition for a name change along with other required documents.
- Can you have two legal names? No, you can have only one legal name, as keeping more than one official name is illegal.
- How do I choose a last name? You can choose a last name by writing down names you like, then saying them with your first and middle name to see if they are hard to pronounce or understand.
- How much does it cost to legally change your name in Texas? The cost to legally change your name in Texas may vary from county to county, but the average is between $150 and $300.
- Can you change your legal name to just have a first or last name? While it’s possible to change your name, the specific requirements and possibilities may vary depending on the state or country.
- Do you need a reason to change your name in Texas? A person may request to change their name for any reason, except for reasons against the public interest.
- Is it hard to change your name in Texas? To change your last name, you will need a court order, and the process involves several steps, including filing a petition and paying a filing fee.
- What is the #1 last name? Smith is the most common last name in both the US and Canada, followed by other names such as Johnson and Williams.
- What is the oldest last name? According to Ripley’s Believe it Or Not, Katz is the world’s oldest surname.
- What is a good rare last name? Some unique last names include Barlowe, Caddel, Hart, Katz, and Madden.
- Is it illegal to go by another name? It is not illegal to go by another name, as long as it is not for an illegal or fraudulent purpose and does not interfere with the rights of others.
- Can I give my baby my last name? There is no law that requires a child to have the same last name as their parent, and a parent can choose any name for their child.
- Can you give a baby a random last name? Yes, you can choose any name for your baby, and in many cultures, the child’s last name is optional.
- Does changing your name affect you? Changing your name can have a psychological impact, leading to criticism or misunderstanding from others, and may cause feelings of frustration or insignificance.
- What is the process to add a middle name? You can add a middle name using a Deed Poll, which acts as legal proof of your new name and enables you to amend your records accordingly.