Writing a Simple Name Change Request Letter (with Samples)
Use these sample name change request letters as templates for your formal request letter.
Last updated on June 18th, 2023
There are several reasons why someone would want to change their name. The most common reasons are marriage and adoption, but sometimes people want to disassociate from a negative-sounding name or would like a more usable name.
Those who do change their names either through marriage or through the court may need to send a name change request letter to their bank, credit card company and other places where they have official records.
Type of Letters
Some sample name change request letters are:
Close friends can be informed of a name change through social media, but a formal letter of request for a name change should be sent to businesses and government organizations.
Those who do change their names either through marriage or through the court may need to send a name change request letter to their bank, credit card company and other places where they have official records.
Type of Letters
Some sample name change request letters are:
Close friends can be informed of a name change through social media, but a formal letter of request for a name change should be sent to businesses and government organizations.
Some of the organizations and companies that need to be advised about a consumer’s name change are:
A parent or other caregiver may need to send a letter for a child who has had a name change due to divorce, adoption or other reason to their school as well as for their social security card and passport. Another official place that needs to be informed is the parent’s or guardian’s tax records.
- Employers
- Landlords
- The Internal Revenue Service
- Social Security
- Doctors and dentists for medical records
- The passport office if applicable
- Credit rating bureaus
- Banks
- Investment broker
- Department of Motor Vehicles
- Credit card companies
- Insurance companies
- Professional clubs or associations
A parent or other caregiver may need to send a letter for a child who has had a name change due to divorce, adoption or other reason to their school as well as for their social security card and passport. Another official place that needs to be informed is the parent’s or guardian’s tax records.
It is important to have all records with the correct name and spelling. In the case of a credit report, the consumer could get false information or invalid items in their credit report that would negatively affect their credit rating and ability to get a loan.
Information that should be in the name change request letter is:
Some organizations have specific forms that need to be filled out for a consumer to have their name changed with that organization. Other places such as a dentist’s office or automobile association may make a name change with only a request letter.
The consumer should also inform each credit card company of their name change. Each credit card company needs to be asked for a new credit card with the new name. Here is a sample of a letter requesting a name change on a credit card.
The letter should be sent by certified mail, so the consumer has proof of the date the letter was sent and received. A copy of all correspondence should be kept by the consumer.
Information that should be in the name change request letter is:
- The full previous name and the full new name
- If applicable, the previous address and the new address
- The social security number will distinguish the consumer from anyone else who has the same name
- Copies of the official name change documents should be included. Never include original documents. This may be a marriage certificate, court order, certificate of naturalization or divorce or adoption papers.
Some organizations have specific forms that need to be filled out for a consumer to have their name changed with that organization. Other places such as a dentist’s office or automobile association may make a name change with only a request letter.
The consumer should also inform each credit card company of their name change. Each credit card company needs to be asked for a new credit card with the new name. Here is a sample of a letter requesting a name change on a credit card.
The letter should be sent by certified mail, so the consumer has proof of the date the letter was sent and received. A copy of all correspondence should be kept by the consumer.
Name Change Request Letter after Marriage
Applicant’s Name
Applicant’s Address
City, State, Zip Code
DATE
Credit Card Company Customer Service Department
Company's Address
City, State, Zip Code
Re: Name change request for Account Number credit card
Dear Sir or Madam,
I have a credit card with the account number of NUMBER in my previous name, which is Full Previous Name. I was married last month and am now legally using the name Full Married Name.
I would like to make a formal request that you change your records to my married name. Along with my new name, please change my address to my new address. Below is my previous name and card number as well as my married name. Kindly update my Card Name account records.
Pre-marriage Information
Previous Maiden Name
Credit Card Account Number
Previous Mailing Address
City, State, Zip Code
Married information
Current Married Name
Credit Card Account Number
Current Mailing Address
City, State, Zip Code
I would also like to request at this time a new credit card with my current name. I would be happy to answer any questions or give you any more information. My telephone number is 555-123-4567 and my email address is [email protected]
I have enclosed a copy of my marriage certificate to verify my new name and give the correct spelling.
Thank you for your prompt attention to my request.
Sincerely,
Applicant’s Signature
Applicant’s Current Name Printed
Current Address
City, State, Zip Code
List of enclosures (copy of marriage license)
Applicant’s Address
City, State, Zip Code
DATE
Credit Card Company Customer Service Department
Company's Address
City, State, Zip Code
Re: Name change request for Account Number credit card
Dear Sir or Madam,
I have a credit card with the account number of NUMBER in my previous name, which is Full Previous Name. I was married last month and am now legally using the name Full Married Name.
I would like to make a formal request that you change your records to my married name. Along with my new name, please change my address to my new address. Below is my previous name and card number as well as my married name. Kindly update my Card Name account records.
Pre-marriage Information
Previous Maiden Name
Credit Card Account Number
Previous Mailing Address
City, State, Zip Code
Married information
Current Married Name
Credit Card Account Number
Current Mailing Address
City, State, Zip Code
I would also like to request at this time a new credit card with my current name. I would be happy to answer any questions or give you any more information. My telephone number is 555-123-4567 and my email address is [email protected]
I have enclosed a copy of my marriage certificate to verify my new name and give the correct spelling.
Thank you for your prompt attention to my request.
Sincerely,
Applicant’s Signature
Applicant’s Current Name Printed
Current Address
City, State, Zip Code
List of enclosures (copy of marriage license)
Name Change Request Letter to Bank
New Name of Person
Address of Person
City, State, Zip Code
DATE
Name of Bank Manager
Name of Bank
Address of Bank
City, State, Zip Code
RE: Name change request for Checking Account Holder ACCOUNT NUMBER
Dear Name of Bank Manager:
This letter is to inform you officially that I have legally changed my name. My previous name that is currently on file in the bank for the above account is PREVIOUS NAME.
I request you to change your records to my legal name: NEW LEGAL NAME. I have enclosed a copy of proof of my name change.
I can be reached at my new Email Address, Phone Number or at the Above Address if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Signature of Person
Printed New Name of Person
List of Enclosures: Proof of Name Change
By Andre Bradley
Address of Person
City, State, Zip Code
DATE
Name of Bank Manager
Name of Bank
Address of Bank
City, State, Zip Code
RE: Name change request for Checking Account Holder ACCOUNT NUMBER
Dear Name of Bank Manager:
This letter is to inform you officially that I have legally changed my name. My previous name that is currently on file in the bank for the above account is PREVIOUS NAME.
I request you to change your records to my legal name: NEW LEGAL NAME. I have enclosed a copy of proof of my name change.
I can be reached at my new Email Address, Phone Number or at the Above Address if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Signature of Person
Printed New Name of Person
List of Enclosures: Proof of Name Change
By Andre Bradley
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is a name change request letter?
Answer: A name change request letter is a formal document that individuals use to request a change in their legal name. It is typically written to a relevant authority, such as a government agency, employer, or educational institution, to inform them of the desired name change and provide necessary supporting documentation.
Q: Why would someone need to write a name change request letter?
Answer: There are various reasons why someone might need to write a name change request letter. Some common situations include getting married or divorced, undergoing a gender transition, correcting errors in legal documents, or simply wanting to change one's name for personal reasons. Writing a formal letter helps ensure that the request is properly documented and processed by the appropriate authorities.
Q: What should be included in a name change request letter?
Answer: A name change request letter should include essential information to support the request. This typically includes the current legal name, the desired new name, the reason for the name change, and any supporting documentation, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. It is important to provide contact information so that the recipient can communicate with the requester if necessary.
Q: How should the name change request letter be formatted?
Answer: The name change request letter should follow a formal business letter format. It should include a proper salutation, an introduction stating the purpose of the letter, a body explaining the request in detail, and a polite closing. The letter should be typed, using a professional and polite tone throughout. It is advisable to keep the letter concise and to the point.
Q: To whom should the name change request letter be addressed?
Answer: The specific recipient of the name change request letter will depend on the purpose of the name change. For example, if you are changing your name due to marriage, it may need to be addressed to the appropriate government agency, such as the social security administration or the department of motor vehicles. If the name change is for employment-related reasons, it should be addressed to the human resources department or the employer.
Q: Is it necessary to provide supporting documentation with the name change request letter?
Answer: Yes, it is generally necessary to provide supporting documentation with the name change request letter. The exact requirements may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the purpose of the name change. Commonly required documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or other legal documentation that justifies the name change. Including these documents helps validate the request and speeds up the processing time.
Q: How long does it typically take for a name change request to be processed?
Answer: The processing time for a name change request can vary depending on several factors, such as the jurisdiction, the specific agency or institution involved, and the completeness of the application. In general, it can take a few weeks to several months to process a name change request. It is advisable to check with the relevant authority or organization to get an estimate of the processing time.
Q: Is there a fee associated with submitting a name change request?
Answer: There may be a fee associated with submitting a name change request, depending on the jurisdiction and the specific situation. Government agencies and institutions often charge a nominal fee to cover administrative costs. The fee amount can vary, so it is important to check the relevant guidelines or contact the appropriate authority to determine if a fee is required and how much it will be.
Q: Can a name change request be denied?
Answer: Yes, in some cases, a name change request can be denied. The specific grounds for denial can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the governing rules or policies. Some common reasons for denial include fraudulent intent, attempting to evade legal obligations, or if the requested name change is deemed inappropriate or offensive. It is important to ensure that the name change request complies with all applicable laws and regulations to minimize the chances of denial.
Q: Can a name change request be made for a minor?
Answer: Yes, a name change request can be made for a minor, but the process may vary from that for adults. Generally, parents or legal guardians are required to initiate the name change on behalf of a minor. Additional documentation, such as proof of guardianship or consent from both parents, may be necessary. It is advisable to consult the specific requirements and procedures established by the jurisdiction or agency responsible for processing name change requests for minors.
Q: What is a name change request letter?
Answer: A name change request letter is a formal document that individuals use to request a change in their legal name. It is typically written to a relevant authority, such as a government agency, employer, or educational institution, to inform them of the desired name change and provide necessary supporting documentation.
Q: Why would someone need to write a name change request letter?
Answer: There are various reasons why someone might need to write a name change request letter. Some common situations include getting married or divorced, undergoing a gender transition, correcting errors in legal documents, or simply wanting to change one's name for personal reasons. Writing a formal letter helps ensure that the request is properly documented and processed by the appropriate authorities.
Q: What should be included in a name change request letter?
Answer: A name change request letter should include essential information to support the request. This typically includes the current legal name, the desired new name, the reason for the name change, and any supporting documentation, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. It is important to provide contact information so that the recipient can communicate with the requester if necessary.
Q: How should the name change request letter be formatted?
Answer: The name change request letter should follow a formal business letter format. It should include a proper salutation, an introduction stating the purpose of the letter, a body explaining the request in detail, and a polite closing. The letter should be typed, using a professional and polite tone throughout. It is advisable to keep the letter concise and to the point.
Q: To whom should the name change request letter be addressed?
Answer: The specific recipient of the name change request letter will depend on the purpose of the name change. For example, if you are changing your name due to marriage, it may need to be addressed to the appropriate government agency, such as the social security administration or the department of motor vehicles. If the name change is for employment-related reasons, it should be addressed to the human resources department or the employer.
Q: Is it necessary to provide supporting documentation with the name change request letter?
Answer: Yes, it is generally necessary to provide supporting documentation with the name change request letter. The exact requirements may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the purpose of the name change. Commonly required documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or other legal documentation that justifies the name change. Including these documents helps validate the request and speeds up the processing time.
Q: How long does it typically take for a name change request to be processed?
Answer: The processing time for a name change request can vary depending on several factors, such as the jurisdiction, the specific agency or institution involved, and the completeness of the application. In general, it can take a few weeks to several months to process a name change request. It is advisable to check with the relevant authority or organization to get an estimate of the processing time.
Q: Is there a fee associated with submitting a name change request?
Answer: There may be a fee associated with submitting a name change request, depending on the jurisdiction and the specific situation. Government agencies and institutions often charge a nominal fee to cover administrative costs. The fee amount can vary, so it is important to check the relevant guidelines or contact the appropriate authority to determine if a fee is required and how much it will be.
Q: Can a name change request be denied?
Answer: Yes, in some cases, a name change request can be denied. The specific grounds for denial can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the governing rules or policies. Some common reasons for denial include fraudulent intent, attempting to evade legal obligations, or if the requested name change is deemed inappropriate or offensive. It is important to ensure that the name change request complies with all applicable laws and regulations to minimize the chances of denial.
Q: Can a name change request be made for a minor?
Answer: Yes, a name change request can be made for a minor, but the process may vary from that for adults. Generally, parents or legal guardians are required to initiate the name change on behalf of a minor. Additional documentation, such as proof of guardianship or consent from both parents, may be necessary. It is advisable to consult the specific requirements and procedures established by the jurisdiction or agency responsible for processing name change requests for minors.