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Name Change
I changed my children's names when they were small but never legally and now my son needs a passport

I changed my children's names when they were small but never legally and now my son needs a passport

Q: Is there a deadline for name change after marriage?

There is no specific legal deadline for changing your name after marriage. However, it is advisable to update your name on important documents, such as your Social Security card and driver's license, soon after the wedding to avoid complications in the future.

Q: How long after your wedding can you change your last name?

You can change your last name at any time after your wedding. Many people choose to do so immediately, but there is no legal time limit. Just ensure you follow the proper procedures for updating your name on official documents.

Q: Is there a time limit on changing last name after marriage?

No, there is no time limit for changing your last name after marriage. You can choose to change it whenever you feel ready, but it is recommended to do so promptly to keep your identification and legal documents consistent.

Q: What happens if you get married and don't change your name?

If you choose not to change your name after marriage, your legal name remains the same. This may not affect your rights or responsibilities as a spouse, but it could lead to confusion in legal documents or when dealing with institutions that may expect a name change.

Q: Is there a limit to changing your name?

Generally, there is no limit to how many times you can change your name. However, frequent changes may require legal documentation to prove the name changes, especially for identification purposes. Always check state laws for specific requirements.

Full question:

When my husband and I married in 1981, I had two small children. They assumed my husband's last name, however were not adopted by my husband, and never did a legal name change. One of my sons is now in the process of applying for a passport, and obtaining his birth certificate. Of course his birth certificate will show his birth name, and we are wondering what effect that will have on the passport process, as he will apply in his current name, which he has used for the last 27 years. His driver's license and social security number is in my married surname, the name he has used all these years, not his birth name.

Category: Name Change
Date: 04/07/2025
State: National

Answer:

If a person's proof of identity, such as a driver's license, is different from the name on their birth certificate, a proof of name change may be required to obtain a passport.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Who comes first in a marriage spouse or child?

In a marriage, both spouses and children hold significant roles, but the priority can vary based on context. Legally, spouses typically have equal rights and responsibilities, while children's welfare is often prioritized in custody and support matters. Ultimately, the dynamics can differ based on individual family situations.