Name change?

Question

I am planning on changing my name when I transfer to a different college next year. Should I do it legally or just start calling myself by my new name? And can I use my new name on college applications even though it's not my legal name?

Answer 1

You need to change it legally. The school will ask questions about why your name is different on your old transcripts.

I changed my daughter's last name when we moved her to a new school and the process was not yet finalized. I informed the new school of the circumstances because her name did not match her transcripts and they allowed me to enroll her with the new name but required that I follow up with the official, legal name change before the semester ended in order for her school record to be complete and for her to continue on as a student at this new school.

They said that if I did not submit the legal name change they would expell her from the school and she would not receive credit for the semester. This was only third grade by the way.

I'm certain a college would require your name to match your transcripts or have a legal document to explain why there was a difference.

FYI, it does not cost a lot to change your name. You only have to file paperwork with the clerk of courts that states the reasons you would like to change your name and then you have to formally list the application in the newspaper as a matter of public record and to see if anyone objects to your name being changed. Oh yeah, someone can object and potentially your application can be denied. You also have to prove that you have tried to contact any reasonably interested party. For me, I was required to notify my daughter's father by registered mail, since we were changing her last name to mine and he lived out of state and might not see the newspaper announcement. You also have to appear before a judge and verbally tell him or her why you are requesting that your name be changed. After all that happens your new name is legally yours but the name change is not finalized for about 30 - 90 days after...just like a divorce. You receive the official paperwork in the mail. The whole thing takes about 3-4 months so plan on filing in a place that you will be for at least that amount of time. Good Luck!

Answer 2

You need to change your name legally otherwise you could be in for trouble later on.
When my mother remarried I was 10 and we started using my stepfathers name (i wanted to as my other name was really bad!) on everything. years later I have had trouble especilally with the tax office and when I got married.
I just wish she had registered it and i would have had no worries.

Answer 3

you need to change your name legally first. Otherwise, you could run into trouble using the new name.

Answer 4

u need to change it legally then u can start using it!