Indiana Name Change

If you have wanted to change your name in Indiana but hesitated because you believed it to be too complicated, take heart. It’s not as difficult as you might think.

The procedure mostly involves completing the proper forms and filing them with the court in your area. A fee is also required. Here is some information you will need to get started.

What forms are required for an Indiana name change?

The following forms are required to change your name in Indiana:

• Appearance Form(Form #1)
• Verified Petition for Change of Name(Form #2)
• Notice of Filing Proof of Publication and Request for Hearing(Form #3)
• Affidavit of Publication(Form #4)
• Notice of Hearing(Form #5)
• Order on Verified Petition for Change of Name (Form #6)

These forms can be found on the Indiana State Courts website.

Where do I file the forms for a name change in Indiana?

The completed forms must be filed with the court clerk of the county where you currently live.

Do I need to notarize the forms?

No.

Is there a filing fee for a name change in Indiana?

Yes. The fee is $104. A fee waiver may be obtained using the Fee Waiver form with a showing of sufficient hardship.

Do I need to schedule a court hearing?

Yes. The court clerk will tell you the date of your court hearing. It must be at least 30 days after the last date your notice is published in the local newspaper.

Do I need to publish something in a local newspaper?

Yes. You must publish a notice of your name change in the local newspaper once a week for three weeks after the Petition is submitted.

Case Studies: Indiana Name Change

Case Study 1: John’s Smooth Name Change Process

John, a resident of Indiana, decides to legally change his name. This case study walks through John’s experience, detailing the specific forms he needs to complete, where he files them, the filing fee, scheduling a court hearing, and publishing a notice in a local newspaper. John successfully completes the process and achieves his desired name change.

Case Study 2: Jane’s Name Change Fee Waiver

Jane, facing financial hardship, wishes to change her name in Indiana but is concerned about the filing fee. This case study explores Jane’s options for obtaining a fee waiver, including the necessary form and demonstrating sufficient hardship. It discusses how Jane navigates the fee waiver process and continues with her name change process without financial burden.

Case Study 3: Mark’s Notice Publication Challenges

Mark intends to change his name in Indiana but encounters difficulties with the publication of the notice in a local newspaper. This case study delves into Mark’s experience, addressing the requirements of publishing the notice once a week for three weeks, the selection of a local newspaper, and any obstacles he encounters during this stage of the name change process.