Full question:
I was born with the last name Piccola. However, a few years after my mother remarried, she had my name on my social security card changed to Osgood (My step-fathers name; I am currently 22 years old). This is the name I have used since that point (It is also the name on my drivers license ) However, my birth certificate still says Piccola. I am trying to apply for a US passport, however, I am told that I need to provide legal documentation of my name change (my social security card and drivers license will not suffice) Unfortunately, I have no such documentation, all I have is my changed SS card and drivers license. Could you please tell me what to do about this/how to fix this/direct me to the correct forms? Thank you.
- Category: Name Change
- Date:
- State: New Hampshire
Answer:
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 process for obtaining a name change for an adult in the State of New Hampshire begins with the filing of a Petition with the Probate Court in the jurisdiction in which Petitioner resides. The Petition informs the Court of the Petitioner’s name, the name the Petitioner wishes to adopt, and the reasons for the requested change of name.
After the Petition is filed and the required fee is paid, the Court may or may not require notice to the general public through publication in a local newspaper or in some other manner. After publication, if any is required, is complete, the Court may proceed to rule in any manner it deems proper.
Please see the information at the following link for further discussion:
http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/correcting/ChangeName/ChangeName_851.html
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.
