How to Legally Change Your Name in New York City: Adult vs. Child Name Changes

Quick Summary: In New York City, you typically change your name by filing a petition with the NYC Civil Court, paying a $65 filing fee, and submitting the correct petition type for either an adult or a child. Adults file their own petitions, while parents or guardians file for minors. Once approved, the court issues an official name change order that you can use to update your IDs and records. Simon & Gilman LLP’s Elmhurst office regularly guides individuals and families through each step.

Legally changing your name in New York City is a straightforward but detail‑oriented process. Whether you’re an adult seeking a fresh start or a parent helping a child with a name that reflects their identity, it’s important to know which petition to use, where to file, and what the court requires. Simon & Gilman LLP offers practical, NYC‑specific guidance for both adult and child name changes, including how to navigate the NYC Civil Court system and avoid common mistakes.

Where You File in New York City

Most name change petitions—both adult and child—are filed in the NYC Civil Court in the borough where you live. The filing fee is $65, and the court reviews your petition to make sure there is no fraud, hiding from creditors, or other improper purpose. Once granted, the judge signs a court order legally approving the change. With this order, you can update your driver’s license, Social Security record, passport, bank accounts, school records, and more.

For more detailed local guidance, visit the firm’s NYC Name Change Guide: NYC Name Change Guide.

Adult Name Change Petitions

Adults who are 18 or older file their own petitions. The adult petition asks for your current legal name, the new name you want, reasons for the change, your address, and identification information. The court may also require supporting documents if your name change relates to immigration, prior criminal records, or identity inconsistencies.

You can learn more about adult name changes here: Adult Name Change.

Child Name Change Petitions

When the name change is for a child under 18, a parent or legal guardian must file the child petition. The court will look closely at the child’s best interests. This includes family circumstances, the child’s relationship with each parent, cultural or safety considerations, and how the name change will affect the child’s life.

If both parents share legal custody, the court usually requires consent from both parents. If consent cannot be obtained, the filing parent may need to serve notice on the non‑consenting parent and explain why the name change is still in the child’s best interests.

More details about child petitions are available here: Child Name Change.

What the Court Order Does

After the court approves a name change, you will receive a signed order—your official legal proof of the new name. This order is what allows you to update your records with government agencies, schools, doctors, financial institutions, and other organizations. Without the court order, these agencies generally cannot change your name in their systems.

How Simon & Gilman LLP Helps

Our Elmhurst office at 91‑31 Queens Boulevard has assisted New York City residents with name changes for decades. We help ensure that petitions are filed correctly, address any consent or notice issues, and guide clients through updating their legal documents after the court order is issued.

Learn more about our full name change services here: Name Changes.

Ready to Make Your Legal Name Match Your Life?

If you’re considering an adult or child name change in New York City, contact Simon & Gilman LLP for experienced, local guidance. We can help you understand which petition to use, how to prepare your paperwork, and what to expect from the court process.

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