How Much Is It to Change Your Name? Guide to Costs in the US

About 8 in 10 women in opposite-sex marriages say they took their husband’s last name.

For many, changing your name after marriage is an exciting milestone. However, it’s more than a personal decision—it involves a legal process with specific steps and costs. 

Knowing what to expect can make the experience smoother and stress-free.

So, how much is it to change your name? The answer varies based on your location and the updates required for personal documents.

From obtaining certified copies of your marriage certificate to updating your Social Security card and driver’s license, the fees can add up quickly.

This guide breaks down the costs and steps, helping you plan ahead and navigate the process with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most: starting your next chapter stress-free.

Name Change Fees in the U.S.: What You Need to Know by State

Changing your name is an exciting milestone, but it comes with costs that vary widely depending on where you live. Knowing what these differences mean can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises when calculating the cost of a name change after marriage.

1. State and County Differences

The cost of filing a name change petition largely depends on your location.

• In California or New York, expect to pay between $300 and $500, thanks to requirements like newspaper publications or court appearances.
• Meanwhile, states like Kentucky or Louisiana charge as little as $50, reflecting simpler processes.
• Even within the same state, counties may have additional fees, so confirm costs with your local courthouse to avoid unexpected expenses.

2. Additional Costs

Beyond the filing fee, there are other costs to consider, including:

• Publication Fees: In states requiring public notice of your name change, these fees can range from $80 to $200, depending on the newspaper and jurisdiction​.
• Certified Document Fees: Agencies may require certified copies of your marriage certificate, court order, or other legal documents. These typically cost $10 to $50 per copy​.
• Legal Assistance: Although not required, hiring a lawyer for help with paperwork or more complex cases can cost between $500 and $2,500​.
• Fee Waivers for Financial Hardship: If the costs feel overwhelming, many states offer "In Forma Pauperis" (IFP) waivers, which allow you to apply for a fee waiver based on financial need. This option is available for those whose household income falls below a certain threshold or who receive government assistance​.

Pro Tip: Save yourself unnecessary stress by researching local regulations and fees upfront. Counties often have unique requirements, like notarization fees or background checks, that could add to the cost of legally changing your name after marriage.

Name Change Costs After Marriage: What to Expect

Changing your name after marriage involves several steps, each with its costs. From obtaining certified copies of your marriage certificate to updating your Social Security card, these expenses can add up.

Here's a breakdown to help you understand and budget for the cost of legally changing your name after marriage.

1. Certified Copies of the Marriage Certificate

You’ll need certified copies of your marriage certificate to start the name change process. Many agencies, like the Social Security Administration or your state’s DMV, require an official certified copy to verify your new name.

• Cost: Each certified copy typically costs between $5 and $35, depending on your state and county. It’s recommended that you order three to six copies to ensure you have enough for all the agencies requiring originals.
• Where to Get Them: Request certified copies from the vital records office where your marriage license was issued. Many offices allow you to order online, by mail, or in person, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best.

Pro Tip: Wondering how much it costs to change your name legally? Certified copies are a small but essential part of the overall expense. Check processing times and fees specific to your location ahead of time. Some offices even offer expedited options if you’re on a tight schedule.

2. Social Security Name Change

The good news is that changing your name with the Social Security Administration is free. To begin:

• Complete Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card).
• Provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate as proof of your name change.

You can submit your application either by mail or in person at your local SSA office. Be sure to include an acceptable form of government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, to confirm your identity. If mailing your documents, consider using certified mail to ensure their safe delivery.

Once the SSA processes your application, you’ll receive your updated Social Security card in the mail, typically within 7 to 14 business days. Rest assured, your Social Security number will remain the same—only your name will be updated.

3. DMV Name Change

Updating your name on your driver’s license is an essential step in making your new name official.

• Cost: Fees vary by state, ranging from $15 to $35 on average.
• Requirements: Most DMVs will ask for:some text
  • Your current driver’s license.
  • A certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order.
  • Proof of residency, like a utility bill or lease agreement (if required).

Some states even allow you to start the process online or by mail. Before visiting your local DMV:

• Confirm the required documents, fees, and processing times.
• Be prepared to fill out a name change application and have a new photo taken.

Beginning May 7, 2025, U.S. citizens over 18 will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card to board domestic flights or access certain federal facilities.

To apply for a REAL ID, you’ll need to provide several key documents:

• Proof of identity: A valid passport or certified birth certificate.
• Proof of Social Security number: Social Security card or equivalent proof.
• Proof of residency: Two documents, such as utility bills, showing your current address.
• Proof of name change (if applicable): Certified marriage license or court order.

Cost: $30–$50, depending on your state. Additional costs may apply for expedited processing or document replacements.

We recommend researching your local DMV’s specific requirements in advance to save time and avoid unnecessary stress when calculating the cost of legally changing your name after marriage.

4. Passport Name Change

If you’re planning international travel, updating your passport with your new name is necessary. The cost of this change depends on how long you’ve had your passport:

• Free update: If your passport was issued less than a year ago.
• Fee required: For passports issued more than a year ago. Visit the U.S. Passport website to find the exact cost using their fee chart and calculator.

Additional costs may include:

• Passport card: $30 (optional, for land and sea travel).
• Expedited processing: $60 for faster handling.
• 1-2 day delivery service: $21.36 for quicker return shipping.

To update your passport:

1. Submit your current passport.
2. Provide a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
3. Include a completed application form and the required fees.

Pro Tip: Expedited services can be a lifesaver if you’re planning upcoming travel. Check processing times early to avoid disruptions.

Changing your name after marriage doesn’t have to be complicated.

Courtly’s Name Change Kits, priced between $35 and $85, make the process fast, simple, and stress-free.

Here’s how Courtly helps you:

• Ready-to-use forms tailored to your state.
• Step-by-step instructions that guide you through every update.
• Expert support to answer your questions along the way.

No need to juggle paperwork or second-guess requirements. Courtly ensures you have everything you need to update your name with ease.

Ready to start? Get Your Name Change Kit Today.

The Complete Process for Legally Changing Your Name

Embarking on a legal name change outside the context of marriage or divorce involves specific steps and associated costs. Understanding these expenses can help you plan effectively.

Filing Fees

The biggest cost is the court filing fee, which varies by location. On average, filing fees range from $10 to $500. Check your local courthouse or state website for the exact amount in your area.

Court Hearing Fees

In some cases, a court hearing may be required to finalize your name change. While some states include this in the filing fee, others may charge an additional amount, typically ranging from $50 to $100. Confirm with your local court whether this step is necessary and what costs might be involved.

Certified Copies of Court Order

Once your name change is approved, you’ll need certified copies of the court order to update your personal records. Each copy costs between $5 to $20, and it’s wise to get 3 to at least five copies to avoid delays when updating multiple documents.

Summary of Costs to Change Your Name After Marriage

Here's a summary of the potential costs involved in changing your name after marriage:

1. Certified Copies of Marriage Certificate: $5 to $35 per copy
2. Social Security Name Change: Free
3. DMV Name Change: $15 to $35
4. Passport Name Change: Varies; additional $30 for passport card; $60 for expedited processing
5. Banks and Financial Institutions: $5 to $10 for notarization (if required)
6. Court Filing Fees (if applicable): $100 to $500
7. Court Hearing Fees (if applicable): $50 to $100
8. Certified Copies of Court Order (if applicable): $5 to $20 each

Your Name Change, Simplified with Courtly

Changing your name after marriage is a meaningful milestone, but it can feel overwhelming with all the legal steps, varying fees, and required updates.

From obtaining certified copies of your marriage certificate to navigating Social Security, DMV, and passport updates, the process can quickly become a logistical challenge.

But it doesn’t have to be.

At Courtly, we’re here to simplify this journey for you. Our Name Change Kits take the guesswork out of the process, providing pre-filled forms tailored to your state, step-by-step instructions, and expert guidance to ensure every detail is handled with ease. 

Whether it’s your Social Security card or your driver’s license, we make the transition seamless so you can focus on what matters most—embracing your new chapter.

Ready to make your name change effortless? Get Started with Courtly Today.

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to change your name if you need expedited services?

Expedited services for name changes can significantly increase costs. For instance, expedited passport processing costs $60, while priority mail delivery adds another $21.36. Some state agencies may also offer faster document processing for an additional $25 to $50. If you're on a tight timeline, budgeting for these services is essential.

2. How much is it to change your name if you’ve recently moved States?

If you’ve moved states, you’ll need to navigate both your former and new state’s requirements. For instance, obtaining certified copies of your marriage certificate from your previous state can cost $5 to $35 per copy, and updating your driver’s license in your new state typically ranges from $15 to $35. Always check local requirements to ensure a smooth process.

3. How much does it cost to change your name on airline loyalty programs or travel documents?

While most loyalty programs don’t charge a fee to update your name, airlines may require proof, such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate, which costs $5 to $35. If your travel documents and tickets are mismatched, you might incur additional rebooking or administrative fees.

4. How much does it cost to change your last name on digital platforms?

Changing your last name on digital platforms like social media or email accounts is usually free, but some professional platforms may require verification. If notarized documents or certified copies are needed for professional identity confirmation, this can cost $5 to $20.

5. How much is it to change your name if your marriage certificate is lost?

If your marriage certificate is lost, you’ll need to order a replacement from the vital records office where it was issued. Replacement fees vary by state but typically range from $10 to $35 per copy. Be prepared for additional processing or mailing fees if you request it online or via mail.