Article: If you're the one filing for divorce, simply include a clause in your petition that you wish to return to your previous name. If your spouse files for divorce, you can file an answer or counterclaim asking to have that clause added to the final decree. At the divorce hearing, the judge will question you about your name change. You'll have to state under oath that you are not changing your name for an improper purpose such as to avoid criminal prosecution. When the judge signs your decree, get certified copies from the clerk's office so you can show them anywhere you need to get your name changed. Complete the application to get a new Social Security card and take it to the local Social Security office along with a certified copy of your divorce decree.  If your marriage was more than two years ago, you'll also need to bring an identity document such as an old driver's license as proof that you previously used the name you want to use now. There is no charge to change your name on your Social Security card. Your new card will be mailed to you once your application is received and processed. Take your old driver's license and a certified copy of your divorce decree to get a driver's license with your new name.  Check the rules in your state concerning other documents you may need to verify the change. Some to most may require your new social security card in addition to the decree. Make note and prepare beforehand to avoid multiple trips. Depending on your state, you may be charged a fee to receive a new driver's license. Once your photo ID and Social Security reflect your new name, you should have no trouble getting it changed elsewhere.  Update the post office, credit card companies, and banks as quickly as possible. This is to avoid any returned payments or refused charges. Notify the post office as soon as you can after receiving the decree so mail in your new name can successfully be routed to your address. This is heavily important concerning the social security card; if the mail gets bounced back to them, the SSA will need to destroy the card and the process will need to be redone. Remember to notify the IRS and your work company for tax and payroll reasons.
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Indicate in your divorce petition that you want to return to a previous name. Testify at the hearing that you want to return to a previous name. Get certified copies of your divorce decree. Take your divorce decree to your nearest Social Security office. Get your name changed on your driver's license. Use your Social Security card and your driver's license to get your name changed everywhere else.