Petition for Change of Name in Wisconsin

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: April 2026

Wisconsin Requirements

  • WI resident
  • Petition with reason
  • 3-week publication
  • Court hearing
Filing Location

Circuit Court

Filing Fee

Approximately $164.50 plus publication costs

Statute Reference

Wis. Stat. § 786.36

How to Complete This Form

  1. 1Obtain a name change petition form from your local court or court website.
  2. 2Complete the petition with your current legal name, proposed new name, and reason for the change.
  3. 3File the petition with the court clerk and pay the filing fee.
  4. 4If required by your state, complete fingerprinting and a criminal background check.
  5. 5If required, publish notice of the name change in a designated newspaper for the required period.
  6. 6Attend the court hearing and bring identification and any supporting documents.
  7. 7After the court grants the order, update your name on identification documents, bank accounts, and other records.

Download Form Template

Download a template for the Petition for Change of Name customized with Wisconsin-specific requirements and instructions.

Petition for Change of Name in Other States

Other Forms in Wisconsin

When to Talk to a Lawyer

  • You have a criminal record or are a registered sex offender and your state imposes additional requirements.
  • You are changing a minor child's name and the other parent objects or cannot be located.

This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.