Name Change Petition in New York

New York Requirements

• Petition must include current name, proposed new name, date and place of birth, and reason for change
• Publication of the order in a designated newspaper required (can be waived for safety under § 64-a)
• Court hearing is generally not required unless the petition is contested
• Consent of both parents required for minor name changes
• Petitioner must not be a registered sex offender seeking to avoid registration requirements

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.

Name Change Petition in Other States

Other Forms in New York