Full question:
Can I change my name to my married name on my license, passport, with creditors and such if I do not change my social security card? I want to use my maiden name for work and the only way I can do that per my job is if my social security card does not change. I want to be known for all other nonwork purposes by my husbands name. The marriage license has my maiden name and husbands name listed as last name with no hyphen.
- Category: Name Change
- Date:
- State: New York
Answer:
Yes, it is possible. As long as not done with wrongful intent, such as to defraud creditors, it is generally acceptable to continue using a maiden name for business purposes. The need for a legal name change may result from marriage, divorce, adoption or simply a desire to have another name. Generally, you cannot change your name for a fraudulent purpose, such as avoiding debts. Means of changing your name generally include usage (in some states using a name as your own has the affect of making it your name); court order (a court order is recommended to change your name and is required by most states); or a marriage certificate as proof of name change.
The court must find that the requested name change is consistent with the public interest. A person is not allowed to change their name in order to avoid judgments or legal actions against him or her, or to avoid debts and obligations. A person can not change their name to defraud any person.
It is possible that the original name will be included as part of the new name change, such as when a surname is hyphenated after marriage or included as a middle name rather than a surname. As long as not done with wrongful intent, such as to defraud creditors, it is generally acceptable to continue using a maiden name for business purposes.
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.
