CHANGING YOUR NAME IN NYS
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Restoring Your Maiden Name After Divorce
If your divorce decree didn't include language restoring your maiden name, don’t worry—you can still legally change your name back in New York State. Here’s how.
What You’ll Need
Where to Start
To file for a name change in New York, you'll typically submit
Name Change Petition
Proposed Order Granting Leave to Change Name (signed by a judge)
Request for Judicial Intervention (RJI)
Proof of identity (birth certificate, state ID, etc.)
Proof of NYS residency (utility bill, lease, etc.)
Filing fee: ~$210 (may vary by county; fee waivers available)
Filing through NYC Civil Court is often quicker and less expensive if you're a city resident.
Use these official tools and forms from the NYS court system
Adult Name Change Forms (PDF Download)
Complete packet with sample petitions, proposed orders, and instructions.DIY Name Change Online Form Tool
A user-friendly form assistant that walks you through the process step by step
Notes
If you're changing your name after divorce, you do not need your ex’s permission.
Once approved, you’ll need to notify government agencies (SSA, DMV, Passport Office, etc.) of the change.
A certified copy of the signed court order will be required to update most documents.
Credit & Collaboration
This guide was created with support from ChatGPT—because even the best librarians appreciate a solid research assistant.
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