How to Change Your Name After a Divorce in New York

If you would like to revert to your maiden name, or any pre-marriage surname after a divorce, this is what you will need to do.

1. First, make sure your Judgment of Divorce contains the prior surname you wish to use. This can be your maiden name or any other prior surname you used in the past. However, you cannot assume an entirely new name.
2. You will need to obtain a certified copy of your Judgment of Divorce with a raised seal. You can get one from the county clerk where your divorce was filed.
3. Since your divorce documents are sealed, the county clerk will require you to produce ID before providing you with a certified copy. I suggest that you call them first to determine what form of ID they will require and how much the certified copy will cost.
4. You will also need to obtain a copy of your birth certificate.
5. With these documents in hand, you can then start the process. I recommend beginning with Social Security and the Department of Motor Vehicles since that will make it easier to change your name with your banks, insurance companies, schools, medical providers, the postal service, your Passport, etc.
6. I also suggest that, if possible, you keep the certified copy of your divorce. If any agency requires you to leave it with them, be sure to arrange to have them mail it back to you when they are done with it.
7. Finally, if you ever decide to get married again, keep the name you have so you never have to go through this again!