Everyone goes through changes in life. Sometimes these changes call for updating your name to better match who you are now. The process of legally changing your name requires clear written requests to various organizations and authorities.
You might need to change your name after getting married, during a gender transition, or simply because you want a fresh start. This guide gives you 15 ready-to-use letter templates that make requesting a name change straightforward. Keep reading to find exactly what you need for your situation.
Letters of Request for Change of Name
These sample letters will help you craft the perfect request for your specific needs.
1. Standard Legal Name Change Request Letter
*[Your Full Current Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Court Name]
[Court Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Request for Legal Name Change
Dear Court Clerk:
My name is [Your Current Full Name], and I am writing to formally request a legal name change. I wish to change my name from [Your Current Full Name] as it appears on my birth certificate to [Your Requested New Full Name].
The reason for this name change is [brief explanation: marriage, divorce, personal preference, gender affirmation, etc.]. I have attached all required documentation including my birth certificate, proof of identity, and proof of residency as required by [State/County] law.
Please let me know if any additional information is needed to process this request. I can be reached at [phone number] or [email address].
Thank you for your assistance with this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Current Legal Signature]
[Your Current Printed Name]*
2. Post-Marriage Name Change Letter
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Social Security Administration]
[Local Office Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Request for Name Change After Marriage
Dear Social Security Administration Officer:
I recently got married on [date of marriage] and would like to update my name on my Social Security records.
My current name is [Your Current Full Name] with Social Security Number [XXX-XX-XXXX]. I am requesting to change my name to [Your New Full Name].
I have enclosed the following documents with this letter:
- Original or certified copy of my marriage certificate
- My current driver’s license for identification
- Completed Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card)
Please process this name change at your earliest convenience. If you need any additional information, please contact me at [your phone number] or [your email address].
Thank you for your assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Current Legal Signature]
[Your Current Printed Name]*
3. Employer Name Change Notification Letter
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[HR Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notification of Legal Name Change
Dear [HR Manager’s Name]:
This letter serves as official notification that I have legally changed my name from [Previous Name] to [New Legal Name], effective [date of legal change].
I request that all company records, including payroll, email, ID badges, business cards, and any other relevant documents be updated to reflect this change.
I have attached a copy of my new Social Security card and updated driver’s license as proof of this legal name change.
Thank you for your assistance in updating my information. Please let me know if any additional documentation is required or if there are any specific company procedures I need to follow.
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]
[Your Employee ID/Number]*
4. Bank Account Name Change Request Letter
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Bank Manager’s Name]
[Bank Name]
[Bank Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Request to Update Name on Bank Accounts
Dear [Bank Manager’s Name]:
I am writing to request that you update the name on all my accounts with your bank. My account numbers are [list all account numbers].
My name has been legally changed from [Previous Name] to [New Legal Name]. This change was officially approved on [date], and I have attached the following supporting documents:
- Court order for name change
- Updated driver’s license
- New Social Security card
Please update all my accounts, checkbooks, debit/credit cards, and online banking profiles to reflect my new legal name. I understand that you may need me to visit a branch location to verify my identity and sign new signature cards.
Please contact me at [phone number] or [email address] once the changes have been processed or if you need additional information.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]*
5. Post-Divorce Name Change Notification Letter
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Recipient Name/Department]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notification of Name Change Following Divorce
Dear [Recipient Name]:
This letter is to formally notify you that following my recent divorce, I have legally returned to my maiden name. My name has changed from [Married Name] to [Maiden/New Legal Name] as of [Effective Date].
The divorce decree authorizing this name change was issued by the [Court Name] on [Date]. I have enclosed a certified copy of the relevant portion of my divorce decree that confirms this name change.
Please update all records, accounts, and correspondence to reflect my legal name change. My account/reference number is [Account/ID Number if applicable].
Thank you for your assistance with this update. If you require any additional documentation or information, please contact me at [phone number] or [email address].
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]*
6. Insurance Policy Name Change Request Letter
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Insurance Company Name]
[Claims/Customer Service Department]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Request to Update Name on Insurance Policy #[Policy Number]
Dear Claims Representative:
I am writing to request a name change on my insurance policy #[Policy Number]. My name has been legally changed from [Previous Name] to [New Legal Name].
This change became official on [date of legal name change]. I have attached the following documentation as proof of this change:
- Court order/marriage certificate/divorce decree [as applicable]
- Updated driver’s license
- Updated Social Security card
Please update all my policy documents, ID cards, online portal access, and any other relevant records to reflect my new legal name.
After processing this change, please send written confirmation to the address listed above. If you have any questions or need additional information, you can reach me at [phone number] or [email address].
Thank you for your assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]*
7. Utility Account Name Change Request Letter
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Utility Company Name]
[Customer Service Department]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Request to Update Name on Account #[Account Number]
Dear Customer Service Representative:
I am writing to request that you update the name on my utility account #[Account Number] for service at [Service Address].
My name has changed from [Previous Name] to [New Legal Name]. I have attached the following documents as proof of this legal name change:
- [Specific legal document: marriage certificate/court order/divorce decree]
- Photo identification showing my new legal name
Please update all billing information, online account access, and any other relevant records to reflect my new name. I would like to continue receiving bills and correspondence at the same address.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. If you need any additional information or verification, please contact me at [phone number] or [email address].
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]*
8. Credit Card Account Name Change Request Letter
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Credit Card Company Name]
[Customer Service Department]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Request to Update Name on Credit Card Account #[Last 4 digits of card]
Dear Customer Service Department:
I am contacting you to request a name change on my credit card account ending in [Last 4 digits of your card number].
My legal name has changed from [Previous Name] to [New Legal Name]. This change became official on [date of legal name change].
To verify this change, I have included copies of the following documents:
- Legal name change document [specify: marriage certificate, court order, etc.]
- My new driver’s license
- Social Security card showing my new name
Please update my account information and issue a new credit card reflecting my current legal name. I understand that my account number and terms will remain the same, with only the name being updated.
If you need any additional information from me to complete this request, please contact me at [phone number] or [email address].
Thank you for your help with this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]*
9. Passport Name Change Request Letter
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
U.S. Department of State
Passport Services
[Appropriate Passport Agency Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Request for Passport Name Change
Dear Passport Services Officer:
I am writing to request a name change on my current U.S. passport. My passport number is [Passport Number] with an expiration date of [Expiration Date].
My name has legally changed from [Name on Current Passport] to [New Legal Name] due to [reason: marriage, divorce, court order, etc.]. The change became official on [date of legal name change].
I have completed Form DS-5504 (if within one year of issuance) / DS-82 (if eligible for renewal by mail) / DS-11 (if in-person application required), which is enclosed along with:
- My current passport
- Original or certified copy of my legal name change document
- One color passport photo meeting all requirements
- Required processing fee
Please issue a new passport reflecting my current legal name. If you require any additional information or documentation, please contact me at [phone number] or [email address].
Thank you for your assistance with this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]*
10. DMV Name Change Request Letter
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[State] Department of Motor Vehicles
[DMV Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Request for Driver’s License Name Change
Dear DMV Representative:
I am writing to request a name change on my driver’s license. My current driver’s license number is [License Number], issued by the state of [State], with an expiration date of [Expiration Date].
My name has legally changed from [Name on Current License] to [New Legal Name]. This change became official on [date] due to [reason: marriage, divorce, court order, etc.].
I understand that I need to visit a DMV office in person to complete this process. This letter will accompany me along with the following required documents:
- Current driver’s license
- Certified copy of legal name change document [specify: marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order]
- Social Security card showing my new name
- Proof of residence
I am submitting this letter in advance to ensure I have all the necessary documentation for my visit. If there are any additional requirements specific to [State] that I should be aware of, please contact me at [phone number] or [email address].
Thank you for your assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]*
11. Name Change Request Letter for Academic Records
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Registrar’s Office
[Educational Institution Name]
[Institution Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Request to Update Name on Academic Records
Dear Registrar:
I am a [current/former] student at [Institution Name] with student ID number [Student ID]. I am writing to request that my name be updated on all my academic records.
My name has legally changed from [Previous Name] to [New Legal Name]. This change became official on [date] due to [brief reason if comfortable sharing].
I have enclosed the following documents to verify this legal name change:
- Certified copy of [court order/marriage certificate/divorce decree]
- Updated government-issued photo ID
- Current enrollment verification (if applicable)
Please update my name on all academic records including transcripts, diplomas, student account, and any other relevant documents. If possible, I would like to request an updated diploma reflecting my new legal name.
I understand there may be fees associated with these changes. Please inform me of any costs and procedures for making these updates.
Thank you for your assistance with this matter. If you need additional information, please contact me at [phone number] or [email address].
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]*
12. Name Change Request Letter for Medical Records
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Medical Records Department
[Healthcare Provider/Hospital Name]
[Provider Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Request to Update Name on Medical Records
Dear Medical Records Department:
I am a patient at [Healthcare Provider/Hospital Name] with medical record number [MRN if known]. I am writing to request that my name be updated on all my medical records.
My name has legally changed from [Previous Name] to [New Legal Name], effective [date of legal change]. This change is due to [reason, if comfortable sharing].
To verify this legal name change, I have enclosed copies of:
- Legal name change documentation [specify document type]
- Updated insurance card(s)
- Current government-issued photo ID
Please update my name in your electronic health record system and on all future medical documentation. I understand that past medical records may maintain my previous name for historical accuracy, but should be linked to my new legal name.
Additionally, please inform me if I need to complete any specific forms or take any additional steps to ensure this change is properly recorded across all departments and affiliated providers.
If you have any questions or need further information, please contact me at [phone number] or [email address].
Thank you for your assistance with this important update.
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]
[Date of Birth: MM/DD/YYYY]*
13. IRS Name Change Notification Letter
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
[Appropriate IRS Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notification of Legal Name Change
Dear IRS Representative:
I am writing to inform you of my legal name change for tax filing purposes. My Social Security Number is [XXX-XX-XXXX].
My name has been legally changed from [Previous Name] to [New Legal Name]. This change became official on [date] due to [marriage, divorce, court order, etc.].
I have already reported this name change to the Social Security Administration and received a new Social Security card reflecting my new legal name. I have enclosed a copy of this card along with:
- Court order/marriage certificate/divorce decree [as applicable]
- A copy of my state-issued photo ID showing my new name
Please update your records to reflect this name change for all future tax correspondence and filings. I understand that I should use my new legal name on all future tax returns and documents submitted to the IRS.
Thank you for your assistance. If you need any additional information, please contact me at [phone number] or [email address].
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]
[Your Social Security Number: XXX-XX-XXXX]*
14. Immigration Documents Name Change Request Letter
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[A-Number if applicable]
[Date]
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
[Appropriate USCIS Office Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Request to Update Name on Immigration Documents
Dear USCIS Officer:
I am writing to request that my name be updated on all my immigration documents. My A-Number is [A-Number if applicable] and my date of birth is [MM/DD/YYYY].
My name has legally changed from [Previous Name as it appears on immigration documents] to [New Legal Name]. This change became official on [date] due to [marriage, divorce, court order, etc.].
I am currently a [visa holder/permanent resident/other immigration status] and need to update my [green card, employment authorization document, visa, etc.] to reflect my new legal name.
I have completed Form [appropriate form number, e.g., I-90 for green card replacement] and am submitting it along with:
- Filing fee of [$XXX.XX]
- Copy of legal name change document [court order, marriage certificate, etc.]
- Copy of current immigration document
- Two color photographs meeting USCIS requirements (if required)
- Any other supporting documentation
Please update your records to reflect my new legal name on all immigration documents. If you require any additional information or documentation, please contact me at [phone number] or [email address].
Thank you for your assistance with this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]*
15. Gender Transition Name Change Letter
*[Your Current Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Organization/Institution Name]
[Department/Attention To]
[Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Legal Name and Gender Marker Change Request
Dear [Appropriate Title/Department]:
I am writing to inform you of my legal name and gender marker change, and to request updates to all relevant records in your system. My account/reference number with your organization is [Account/ID Number if applicable].
My legal name has been changed from [Previous Name] to [New Legal Name], and my gender marker has been updated from [Previous Gender Marker] to [New Gender Marker]. These changes became legally effective on [date] through [court order/legal process relevant to your state].
I have enclosed the following documentation to verify these legal changes:
- Certified copy of court order for name change
- Updated government ID reflecting my new name and gender marker
- [Any other relevant documentation required by the specific organization]
Please update all records, documentation, and systems to reflect these changes. This includes but is not limited to:
- All accounts and identifying information
- Email addresses and contact details
- ID cards and access credentials
- All correspondence and communications
I request that these changes be implemented across all departments and systems to ensure consistency. Additionally, please treat this information with confidentiality and sensitivity.
If you have any questions or need additional documentation, please contact me directly at [phone number] or [email address] rather than through any previous contact information you may have on file.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
[Your New Legal Signature]
[Your New Printed Name]*
Wrap-up: Sample Letters for Name Changes
Changing your name marks an important life transition. These letter templates give you a starting point to communicate your name change clearly and professionally to various organizations. Each situation is unique, so feel free to adjust the wording to fit your specific needs.
The key to a smooth name change process is clear communication and proper documentation. Keep copies of all your letters and follow up if you don’t receive confirmation within a reasonable time. With these templates as your guide, you’ll be well on your way to establishing your new identity across all important records.