Sloane: I changed my last name a little over two years ago, when I was 18. I no longer wanted to keep my fathers’ name since he and I had a falling out when I was 15. Prior to turning 18, I spent around 2 or 3 years researching the origins and meanings of thousands of names. I didn’t want to change my name willy-nilly and regret it later.
Anyway, the process here in WA state is pretty simple. I filled out the necessary forms and went to the Thurston County Court House. I had to wait a little while until my case was heard, but when it was finally my turn it took no more than 3 minutes. The judge approved it and I was directed to another area to pay the $81 and to get my notarized copies of the name change which cost another $5 each. I recommend getting multiple copies (at least 5) since you will have to change and show proof of your name with the Social Security Office, DMV, insurance company, school, bank etc. Often times they will need to keep an original copy for their files. Plus, you’ll want a copy or two for your records just in case you have to prove who you are down the road. That way you hopefully won’t have to go back to the court house to get more copies. The hardest part about the process for me was making sure all the necessary people knew my new information. I’m still not caught up with everything.
I don’t regret changing my name at all! I found the right one for me. I only wish that once a name change took place the person’s birth name would be wiped from all records. I understand why that isn’t done, of course, but a big part of why I changed my name was so that I could forget my past, move on and become my own person. I don’t need/want to see my birth name on pieces of junk mail every other day! Nor do I want to write it on medical documents and the like.
Good luck with the name change! Hope this helps.