The Ultimate Post-Divorce Name Change Checklist: Everything to Update When You Change Your Name
Changing your name after divorce can feel empowering — but it’s also a logistical project with many moving parts. Once the court approves your name change, you’ll need to update dozens of documents, accounts, and profiles to reflect your new name.
This checklist breaks it all down, so you don’t have to wonder what you’ve missed.
Legal and Government Documents
Start with official identification and records. These updates will form the foundation for everything else.
Social Security card (visit your local SSA office or mail in the required forms)
Driver’s license or state ID
Passport (requires a DS-82 or DS-11 form depending on timing)
Voter registration
Vehicle title and registration
Birth certificate (if you need a certified copy for verification)
Divorce decree or name change order (keep multiple certified copies)
Pro tip: Do these first — many banks, employers, and agencies will need these updated IDs before they can process other name changes.
Financial Accounts and Records
Once your ID is updated, tackle your financial life.
Bank accounts (checking, savings, business)
Credit cards and store cards
Mortgage or rental lease
Utility bills (gas, electric, water, internet, phone)
PayPal, Venmo, Cash App, or Zelle accounts
Retirement and investment accounts
Insurance policies (life, health, home, auto)
Tax documents and IRS records
Tip: Many banks will want to see your new driver’s license and a certified copy of your divorce decree.
Health and Benefits
Make sure all medical and benefits information reflects your current name.
Health insurance and dental insurance
Primary care doctor, pediatrician, and specialists
Pharmacies and prescription accounts
Employer HR and payroll systems
Disability or unemployment benefits
Gym or fitness memberships
Work and Business
If you run a business or use your name professionally, you’ll want consistency across all public-facing platforms.
LinkedIn profile
Email address and signature
Business website, domain name, and “About” page
LLC, corporation, or business registration
Contracts, client agreements, or NDAs
Invoices, payment apps, and accounting software
Business cards and branded materials
SEO tip: If you’re changing your name on your website or publications, update your author bios and redirect old links where possible to preserve search rankings.
Online Presence and Digital Accounts
Our names live everywhere online — don’t forget to refresh your digital footprint.
Google account and Gmail
Apple ID and iCloud
Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (Twitter), Threads
Zoom, Slack, and other work tools
Amazon, Etsy, and other shopping accounts
Streaming services (Netflix, Spotify, etc.)
Tip: Change your display name first, then update your handle if you want to — this helps followers recognize you during the transition.
Household and Daily Life
You’ll also want to update everyday items and accounts connected to your household.
Lease, mortgage, or homeowners’ documents
Car insurance and registration
School records and emergency contact forms for your kids
Library card and community memberships
Travel rewards and airline programs
Pet microchip or vet records
Subscription boxes or delivery services (HelloFresh, Instacart, etc.)
Emotional Reminders
Finally — remember that name changes can bring up complicated emotions. Take breaks. Celebrate the milestones. Keep a small folder of all your updated documents so you can look back and see how far you’ve come.
A Fresh Take
Changing your name after divorce isn’t just paperwork — it’s an act of self-definition. Every update is a quiet way of saying, “I know who I am now.” Do it at your own pace, with patience and pride.