North Carolina Name Change Form

What is the North Carolina Name Change

The North Carolina name change process allows individuals to legally change their name for various reasons, including marriage, divorce, or personal preference. This legal procedure is governed by state laws and requires a court order to be recognized officially. The name change is applicable to adults as well as minors, although the process may vary slightly depending on the individual’s age.

Steps to complete the North Carolina Name Change

To initiate a name change in North Carolina, follow these steps:

1. Determine eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria for changing your name, such as being a resident of North Carolina.
2. Complete the application: Fill out the necessary forms, including the application for name change, which can be found through the court system.
3. File the application: Submit the completed application to the appropriate court in your county. This may require a filing fee.
4. Attend the hearing: A court hearing may be scheduled where you will present your case for the name change.
5. Obtain the court order: If approved, the court will issue a name change order, which you will need for updating your identification and other documents.

Required Documents

When applying for a name change in North Carolina, you will need to gather specific documents to support your application. These may include:

• A completed application for name change form.
• Proof of residency in North Carolina.
• Identification documents, such as a driver’s license or passport.
• Any relevant court documents if changing your name due to marriage or divorce.

Legal use of the North Carolina Name Change

The name change in North Carolina is legally binding once the court issues an order. This order allows you to use your new name for all legal purposes, including updating your identification, bank accounts, and other official documents. It is important to ensure that the name change is reflected in all relevant records to avoid complications in the future.

Form Submission Methods (Online / Mail / In-Person)

In North Carolina, the application for a name change can typically be submitted in person at the local courthouse. Some counties may offer online submission options, but this varies by jurisdiction. It is essential to check with your local court for specific submission methods available in your area.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a name change in North Carolina, applicants must meet certain criteria, including:

• Being a resident of North Carolina for a specified period.
• Being at least eighteen years old, or having parental consent if under eighteen.
• Having no pending criminal charges or felony convictions, as these may complicate the name change process.

Application Process & Approval Time

The application process for a name change in North Carolina generally takes several weeks. After submitting your application, the court will schedule a hearing, which may take additional time depending on the court's schedule. Once the hearing is completed, and if the name change is approved, you will receive the court order, typically within a few days to a few weeks.