Court filing fees are the main cost, and they vary by state

The cost to change your last name is almost entirely made up of court filing fees, which range from about $150 to $500 depending on which state you live in. Some states charge a flat fee; others charge based on the type of petition you file. A few states offer reduced or waived fees if you meet income requirements, though you will need to request this when you file.

Beyond the court fee itself, you may have smaller costs for certified copies of your name change order (usually $5 to $25 per copy), notarization if required (typically $5 to $15), and certified mail postage if you are serving notice on other parties. If you hire an attorney to handle the petition, legal fees can range from $300 to $1,500 depending on complexity and your location, but many people file without an attorney and pay only the court fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Court filing fees range from $150 to $500 and are the largest cost; check your state or county court website for the exact amount in your jurisdiction.
  • Some states reduce or waive fees for people with low income, but you must request this when you file and may need to provide proof of income.
  • Certified copies of your name change order cost $5 to $25 each and you will need several to update your Social Security record, driver's license, and bank accounts.
  • Hiring an attorney is optional and costs $300 to $1,500, but many people file the petition themselves and pay only the court fee.

How court fees break down by state

Most states publish their court filing fees on the district or circuit court website for your county. In some states, the fee is the same statewide; in others, each county sets its own. For example, California charges a flat $435 statewide, while Texas fees vary by county from roughly $200 to $350. New York charges around $210 in most counties. You can find your specific fee by searching "[your state] name change court fee" or calling your local district court clerk's office.

A few states offer fee reductions or waivers based on income. If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary information for Needy Families (TANF), or Medicaid, or if your income is below a certain threshold, you may be able to file a fee waiver request alongside your petition. The court will review your request and either grant it, reduce the fee, or deny it. You will not know the outcome until after you file, so bring payment in case the waiver is denied.

Costs for certified copies and document updates

After the court approves your name change, you will receive a certified copy of the order. This is the official document you use to update your name everywhere else. Most courts charge $5 to $25 per certified copy. You should order at least three to five copies upfront because you will need them to update your Social Security record, driver's license, passport, bank accounts, and employer records. Ordering extras now is cheaper than requesting them later.

Updating your documents with government agencies and financial institutions is free, but some may require notarization of your name change order. A notary public charges $5 to $15 per signature and can usually be found at your bank, courthouse, or a UPS Store. If you mail documents to multiple agencies, certified mail costs about $8 per piece if you want proof of delivery.

Attorney fees if you hire a lawyer

You do not need an attorney to change your name in most cases. The petition is straightforward and court clerks can point you toward the forms and filing instructions. However, some people hire an attorney for peace of mind or because their situation is complicated — for example, if there is an objection from another party, if you have a criminal history, or if you are changing a minor's name and the parents do not agree.

If you do hire an attorney, expect to pay $300 to $1,500 depending on your state and the complexity of your case. Some attorneys charge a flat fee for an uncontested name change; others charge hourly rates of $150 to $400 per hour. Ask for a written estimate upfront and clarify whether the fee includes the court filing fee or if that is separate.

Fee waivers and reduced-cost options

If you cannot afford the court filing fee, you can request a fee waiver or reduction by filing a motion or affidavit of indigency at the same time you file your name change petition. This document asks the court to waive or reduce the fee based on your income and expenses. Requirements vary by state, but generally you will need to show that you receive public benefits, earn below the federal poverty line, or cannot afford the fee without hardship.

Some legal aid organizations and law school clinics offer free or low-cost name change help to people who meet income limits. Search "[your state] legal aid name change" to find organizations in your area. These services typically handle the entire filing process for free, though you may still owe the court fee unless you also obtain a fee waiver.

What happens if you file without paying

You cannot file a name change petition without paying the court fee or having a fee waiver approved. If you submit your petition without payment and without a waiver request, the court will reject it and return it unfiled. You will then need to resubmit with payment or with a completed fee waiver form.

Some courts allow you to pay the fee in installments if you cannot pay it all at once. Call your local court clerk to ask whether this option is available and what the payment schedule would be. This is different from a fee waiver and does not require proving income — you straightforward arrange to pay over time.

Total cost summary

For most people, the total cost of a name change is between $150 and $500 for the court fee, plus $15 to $100 for certified copies. If you need notarization or certified mail, add another $20 to $50. If you hire an attorney, add $300 to $1,500. If you may have access to for a fee waiver, your only costs are the certified copies and any notarization or mailing fees, which total $15 to $100.

The largest variable is your state and county. Before you file, check your local court website or call the clerk's office to confirm the exact filing fee, whether fee waivers are available, and how many certified copies you should order. Having this information upfront prevents surprises and lets you budget accurately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a fee waiver if I have a job but not much money left after bills?

It depends on your state's income threshold and how the court calculates your expenses. Most courts look at your gross income and compare it to the federal poverty line or a state-specific threshold. If you are above that line, the court may deny the waiver even if you have little money left after expenses. Some courts do consider necessary expenses like rent and childcare. File the waiver request anyway and explain your situation; the judge will decide.

Do I have to pay the court fee upfront or can I pay after the name change is approved?

You must pay the fee when you file the petition, before the court reviews it. If you cannot pay, you can file a fee waiver request at the same time. The court will not process your petition until the fee is paid or the waiver is approved. Some courts allow installment payments, so ask the clerk if that option exists in your county.

How many certified copies should I order?

Order at least three to five copies. You will need one for Social Security, one for your driver's license or state ID, one for your bank, and one for your employer. Having extras prevents you from having to request more later, which costs additional money and takes time. Ask the court how many copies they recommend for your situation.

What if I cannot afford the court fee and a fee waiver is denied?

Contact a legal aid organization in your state; many offer free name change services regardless of whether you can afford the court fee. Some will pay the fee on your behalf or help you file an appeal of the waiver denial. Search "[your state] legal aid" or call 211 to find organizations near you.

Does the cost change if I am changing a minor's name?

The court filing fee is usually the same whether you are changing your own name or a minor's name. However, if the parents do not agree or if there is an objection, the case becomes contested and may require an attorney, which increases costs. If both parents agree, the process is straightforward and costs the same as an adult name change.