Full question:
I am getting married soon and want to keep my deceased husband's name along with taking my new name. I don't want to hyphenate or be referred to by both. I want it to keep the connection between me and our children. I want to be able to sign both but not be called both.
- Category: Name Change
- Date:
- State: Nebraska
Answer:
It is generally acceptable to use a former name in certain contexts, such as in professional settings, as long as it is not done for fraudulent purposes. However, different governmental and institutional guidelines may apply to name usage, which can lead to conflicts. For example, your legal name is used in various situations, including on your driver's license, passport, credit cards, and bank accounts. In many cases, only one legal name is recognized. There are specific rules for changing names on documents like your Social Security card, and these can vary by state. While it is not illegal to use two names for legitimate purposes, it may create complications in the future.
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.