How Much Does It Cost to Change Your Name? (Price Guide)

Changing your name legally usually means filing a petition with a court, attending a short hearing in some places, and then updating your records. The total depends on where you file, whether your state requires a newspaper notice or a background check, and how many documents you need to update afterward.

Figures on this page come from state court pages and a consumer cost guide, checked on Oct 11, 2026. Court fees are set locally and can change, so look up your own court's fee schedule before you file. This page is general information, not legal advice. For questions about your situation, talk to a licensed attorney or your court's self-help center.

The filing fee is the main expense of a court-ordered name change. Fees vary by state, and in many states by county. Where the source gives a range, the lower number often reflects a county with lower fees or a specific petition type, and the upper end reflects higher-cost courts.

These are examples, not a complete list. Many courts offer fee waivers for people with low income. Ask the clerk's office or the court's self-help center how to request one.

Beyond the filing fee, some states add requirements that raise the total.

Newspaper publication is required in some places so the public has notice of the change. The price depends on the newspaper you use, and some courts let you choose a lower-cost publication. Background checks, where required, are typically paid separately. Your court's website should say whether either applies.

If your name changes because of marriage or divorce, you may not need a separate court petition. A certified marriage certificate or a divorce decree that restores a former name can often be used as proof of your new name when you update records. Rules differ by state and by agency, so check with the agency you are dealing with.

Because you skip the petition, the main costs are certified copies of the document and any fees charged by agencies when you update your ID.

A court order or marriage certificate is only the start. You then have to update the places that know you by your old name. Typical stops include:

• Social Security Administration: Update this first, since other agencies often check against it.
• Driver's license or state ID: The DMV charges a fee in many states. California, for example, lists a fee to change driver license information.
• U.S. passport: Rules and fees depend on how recently your passport was issued and whether it is still valid. Check the State Department's site.
• Banks, credit cards and employer payroll: Most ask for a copy of the court order or certificate.
• Voter registration, insurance and utilities: Update these so records match.
• Professional licenses and school records: Contact each issuer for its process.

Certified copies of your court order are worth ordering in advance, since several agencies will want an original or certified version. Courts charge per copy, so ask how many you need.

1. Check for a fee waiver: If money is tight, ask the clerk about waivers or reduced fees.
2. Use self-help resources: Many courts provide forms and instructions at no charge, so you can often file without a lawyer.
3. Compare publication options: If your state requires notice in a newspaper, ask which publications the court accepts.
4. Order only the copies you need: But buy enough certified copies to avoid repeat trips to the clerk.
5. Batch your updates: Gather your documents before visiting the Social Security office, DMV and passport channels.