About NewLastName: Free Name Change Info & Tools

We built NewLastName because the name change process is unnecessarily complicated.

When we went through our own name changes, we were shocked by how scattered and confusing the whole thing was. Different forms for different agencies. Conflicting information online. Services charging fees for what should be straightforward. Hours spent figuring out which box to check on the Social Security form, or whether you need DS-82 or DS-11 for your passport.

The government forms themselves aren't that hard to fill out once you know what each agency asks for. Our guides explain that in the agency's own words. We built the tool we wished existed when we were going through this ourselves.

What We Do

No hidden fees, no credit card required.

We gather the official forms and plain-English steps in one place. You choose your forms; the tool copies what you type onto the blank official form. They include Social Security's SS-5, Passport forms DS-82, DS-11, and DS-5504. These are the actual PDF forms from the government websites, not generic templates.

We cover all 5 types of name changes that exist in the US:

• Marriage — Most common, but not the only reason people change names
• Divorce — Returning to a prior name after divorce
• Court order — Legal name change through the court system
• Minor — Name changes for children under 18
• Gender identity — Name changes as part of gender transition

Most other services only handle marriage name changes. We built NewLastName to serve everyone, regardless of why you're changing your name.

Federal steps for everyone, plus in-depth guides for 10 states. Our guides explain what each agency asks for, in the agency's own words.

Your Privacy Comes First

We know you're entering sensitive information — your Social Security number, address, personal details. Here's how we protect your privacy:

When you create a filled form, what you type (which can include your Social Security number) is sent to our server to build the PDF. Saved drafts don't keep your SSN, driver's license or passport numbers. Only enter your SSN if you need it on the form.

No account required to start. You can use NewLastName immediately without creating an account or giving us your email address. If you want to save your progress, you can create an account, but it's completely optional.

We use Google Analytics and show ads served by Google AdSense. You can opt out on this browser at any time; our Privacy page explains what is collected and how.

Encrypted at rest. Any information that does touch our servers (like your basic contact details if you choose to save your progress) is encrypted using industry-standard methods.

Beyond the Forms: Our Complete Guides

Filling out the forms is just the beginning. You also need to know where to submit them, what documents to bring, how long each step takes, and who to notify after your name is officially changed.

That's why we maintain detailed guides for every part of the process. Our Social Security name change guide walks you through the in-person appointment. Our passport name change guide explains the difference between renewal and first-time applications. Our DMV guide covers driver's license updates, and our name change checklist helps you stay organized throughout the entire process.

We update these guides regularly as government policies change. Everything you need to know, in one place.

Get in Touch

Have a question about the name change process? Found an error in one of our guides? Want to suggest an improvement?

Email us at hello@newlastname.org. We read every message and respond personally.

Last verified: 2026-03-30