Changing your last name is a significant life event, often associated with marriage, divorce, or simply a desire for personal identity. While the reasons for a name change are varied, the legal process generally involves filing a petition with the court. One of the first questions people ask is: How Much Is It To Change Your Last Name? The answer isn’t straightforward, as filing fees vary considerably depending on the state and even the county where you reside.
Understanding Name Change Filing Fees
When initiating a name change, you’re essentially requesting the court to legally alter the name assigned to you at birth, adoption, marriage, or following a divorce. Parents can also petition for a name change on behalf of their minor children. The process begins with submitting a petition to the court in your county of residence and paying the associated filing fee.
State-by-State Breakdown of Name Change Costs
The cost to change your last name can differ significantly across the United States. The following table provides a general overview of filing fees by state. Keep in mind that these are typical ranges, and your specific county may have different fees.
| State | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| AK | $200 |
| AL | $25 – $100 |
| AR | $165 |
| AZ | $218 – $310 |
| CA | $435 – $450 |
| CO | $88 |
| CT | $250 |
| DC | $60 |
| DE | $85 |
| FL | $401 |
| GA | $200 – $215 |
| HI | $56 |
| IA | $195 |
| ID | $166 |
| IL | $300 – $350 |
| IN | $100 – $200 |
| KS | $166 – $195 |
| KY | $50 – $100 |
| LA | $400 – $500 |
| MA | $180 |
| MD | $165 |
| ME | $75 |
| MI | $175 |
| MN | $285 |
| MO | $100 – $200 |
| MS | $148 |
| MT | $120 |
| NC | $80 – $120 |
| ND | $80 |
| NE | $85 |
| NH | $130 |
| NJ | $250 |
| NM | $132 |
| NV | $270 |
| NY | $65 – $300 |
| OH | $100 – $200 |
| OK | $165 |
| OR | $124 |
| PA | $300 – $350 |
| RI | $89 |
| SC | $150 |
| SD | $70 |
| TN | $160 |
| TX | $200 – $350 |
| UT | $150 – $375 |
| VA | $35 – $50 |
| VT | $150 |
| WA | $120 – $250 |
| WI | $165 |
| WV | $200 – $304 |
| WY | $120 |
Why Do Name Change Fees Differ So Much?
The variation in name change fees stems from the fact that these filings occur at the county level. Each county has the authority to determine the appropriate fees for its court system. While the table above reflects typical costs within each state, it’s crucial to verify the exact fee with the court in your specific county.
Navigating Financial Hardship: Fee Waivers
If you are concerned about the cost associated with changing your name, you may be eligible for a fee waiver, sometimes referred to as an “In Forma Pauperis” (IFP).
Eligibility for Fee Waivers
Anyone can request a fee waiver from the court. However, these waivers are usually granted if one of the following conditions is met:
- Government Assistance: You currently receive government assistance.
- Low Income: Your household income is 125% or less than the current poverty level established by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Note that poverty level charts differ for Alaska, Hawaii, and the remaining 48 states and Washington D.C.
Proving Financial Hardship
If neither of the above conditions applies, the court may require you to demonstrate that paying the filing fee would create a significant hardship due to your current financial situation. Depending on the state and the judge, you may be asked to provide documentation of your income, such as pay stubs.
Taking the Next Steps
Changing your last name involves understanding the associated costs and exploring options for financial assistance if needed. By researching the specific fees in your county and investigating potential fee waivers, you can navigate the legal process more effectively and make informed decisions about your name change journey.
