Name changes can occur for a number of reasons, and there are different procedures and paperwork required depending on your situation:
Alberta marriage name change
Marriage is the most common reason for people to change names. Either spouse may assume the other’s surname either in addition to their own surname or in place of their surname. In about 75% of weddings, one party to the marriage will go on to change names. All government authorities that issue identification and hold other sensitive information will need to see your original marriage certificate issued by Alberta Vital Statistics. You can apply for an Alberta Marriage Certificate from an Alberta Registry Agent. We provide the application form as part of our kits which you can download it via the link below.
ALBERTA MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE APPLICATION FORM
Once you have your marriage certificate simply show the necessary organizations to have your name changed. Some companies allow name change in writing, in which case we will provide that company’s special name change form, ready to send letter or a ready to forward email in your name. In many cases, you can just sign and send.
Alberta – revert to former name
If you’re already divorced and want to go back to your prior name you need an original divorce decree together with your marriage certificate. Take these documents to any Alberta Registry Agent to change the name on your driver’s licence and Alberta health care card. You can instead update your health care card by sending the form and copies of your proof documents by mail to the AHCIP office. Most banks need to see the original proof documents in person whereas many other companies accept a photocopy by mail.
Easy Name Change can help save you over 8 hours figuring out what to send where. We provide ready to send name change paperwork, including pre-completed company name change forms, ready to send letters and ready to forward emails. They are personalized for each company – just sign and send! For organizations that don’t allow name change in writing, we tell you exactly what to do so you don’t need to spend hours on hold researching this yourself.
There’s no time limit on changing names. You can choose to be known by either your married or maiden name at any time regardless of your personal situation. We recommend getting the same name across all your identification and accounts in a reasonable time frame so you don’t have difficulties when proving your identity.
GET YOUR DIVORCE NAME CHANGE PAPERWORK
Alberta Legal Name Change
If you’re taking a name for any other reason or taking a surname other than your spouse’s, you’ll need a legal name change. Read our separate section on Alberta Legal Name Change, or if you’re ready to start changing names now just click the button below.
