Mississippi Name Change--Married or Maiden?
Changing your name in a Mississippi divorce
In Mississippi, you have the right to a name change in a divorce action. If you want to change your name back to your maiden name, let your attorney know so it can be included in the Complaint for Divorce.
When the divorce is granted, the chancellor will sign a final judgment, commonly known as a decree. Although your name is legally changed by the final judgment, you still need to inform certain federal and Mississippi agencies about your change of name. Get some certified copies of the divorce decree and then get ready for some paperwork in order to change your passport, driver’s license, voter registration, and name with the Internal Revenue Service. Don’t forget to change your name with your financial institutions and credit card companies. Here are some helpful links to assist in the process.
Passport: To change your name on an existing valid passport, click here. Be prepared for a long wait given the change in passport requirements. There are paid services which will speed up the process and can be found through a simple Google search.
Driver's License: To change your driver’s license, you will need to take a certified copy of the divorce decree to your local driver’s license office. You can find office locations by clicking here.
Voter Registration: To change your voter registration, click here to download the form published by the Mississippi Secretary of State. If you have questions concerning the form, contact the Mississippi Secretary of State or your local county Circuit Clerk. Click here to find the telephone number of your local county Circuit Clerk.
I.R.S.: You also want to let the Internal Revenue Service know that you have changed your name. Form SS-5 can be downloaded by clicking here. Fill it out, include a certified copy of the divorce decree changing your name, and send it in.
Finally, if you are a professional with a license, don’t forget to change your name with your state licensing board. Instructions can be usually be found on the internet.
Remember, you are not required to change your name when divorced and today many women keep their married name given it is usually the same last name as their children. It is your option.
