What to Do After Changing Your Name in a Divorce

If your divorce included a legal name change—usually a return to a former or maiden name—there are several important follow-up steps you’ll need to take to update your identity across various agencies and accounts. While your Final Decree of Divorce legally authorizes the change, many government offices and institutions require you to take action to update your records.

1. Update Government-Issued Identification

To avoid delays or complications, it’s best to update your official identification documents as soon as possible. Be sure to bring a certified copy of your Final Decree of Divorce showing the name change when visiting each agency.

• Social Security Card: Visit your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office to update your name.
• Driver’s License or State ID: After updating your name with the SSA, go to your Department of Public Safety (DPS) to update your ID.
• Voter Registration: Contact your County Voter Registrar. In Texas, visit the Texas Secretary of State.
• Passport: Contact the U.S. State Department to update your passport. You’ll need to submit your current passport, a certified divorce decree, a form, and a new photo.

2. Update Property and Vehicle Records

Your divorce may have affected your ownership of property or vehicles. It’s important to make sure these records reflect the court’s orders.

• Vehicle Title Transfer: Bring a certified copy of your Final Decree to your county tax office. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) must be listed in your decree.
• Real Property Deeds: File a new deed with the real property records office in the county where the property is located.

3. Finalize Division of Retirement Accounts

If the court signed a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) dividing a retirement account, it is your responsibility to send it to the plan administrator.

4. Review and Update Other Legal and Financial Documents

After a divorce and name change, make sure to update:

• Your will
• Insurance policies (life, health, auto, home)
• Bank and investment account beneficiary designations
• Employer and payroll records

Need help navigating the paperwork? DivorceWriter provides the tools and resources to guide you through each step of your DIY divorce—before, during, and after.