I want to return to my maiden name, but I don't even know where to start.

So you want to go back to your maiden name after divorce, but you're not sure where to start? This is totally understandable. I get this question all of the time. And it's one of those details or one of those tasks that can feel simple in theory but actually can be a little bit confusing in practice, especially when your emotions are running high. So the first thing to know is you absolutely can change your name as part of the divorce process. You can go back to your maiden name. You could change just part of your name, like your middle name, or you can make up a new name if you want to as a part of the divorce. It is very simple to add the name change into your divorce paperwork. Timing does matter. So if you are already divorced, it's a little bit more challenging and you will need to actually have a separate action to change your name. Either way, it is possible to do. And there's a great checklist and all sorts of information at PartWise to learn and walk you through that entire process.

Getting into a little bit more of the specifics. Like I said, you can add the name change to your divorce paperwork. That means once you are officially divorced, and the divorce is finalized in your state, your name is now also changed. Then you will have to take the next steps, which is to essentially effectuate that change or to update your name across the board. That is where things can be a bit of a hassle and sometimes an annoyance. You have to notify everybody, the Department of Motor Vehicles, Social Security, your passport, all your credit cards, bank accounts, title on your car. There are a lot of different areas that you have to actually implement your name change, but know that it's possible. It's fairly easy during the divorce. You don't have to prove anything in order to change your name. If it's part of your divorce, it can just be done because they assume you want to do it as part of the divorce. One important thing to just always keep in mind, changing your name is entirely your decision. Some people do it to reclaim their identity. Others like to keep their last name in order to have some consistency with the kids, or maybe for professional reasons. There is no right or wrong answer. It is about what feels right to you and just know that it is possible. At PartWise, we break down all of the steps in super plain language, with checklists and clear directions so you can figure out how to change your name whether you're doing it now or later.