So You Want to Rename Your Mini-Me: A (Mostly) Painless Guide to Changing Your Child's Last Name in Pennsylvania
Let's face it, naming a kid is hard. You spend months flipping through baby name books, arguing with your partner (or celebrating your unique taste!), and finally settling on the perfect moniker. Then, WHAM! Reality hits. Junior turns out to be more of a Susan, or maybe little Lily decides she'd rather be a fierce dragon named Khaleesi. Hey, it happens! But what if the name change you crave applies to your child's last name? Buckle up, because we're diving into the wonderful world of Pennsylvania name changes for minors.
 |
| How Much Does It Cost To Change A Child's Last Name In Pennsylvania |
The Cost of a New Alias (Spoiler: It's Not About Bribes)
Forget offering the judge a batch of your grandma's famous cookies (although, they are delicious). The price of a name change depends on how much your family drama meter is cranked up to eleven. Here's the breakdown:
The Easy Route (and It's Practically Free!) - If both parents are on board with the name change and there's no court involved, you're looking at a measly $20. This covers the fee for updating your child's birth certificate with the Pennsylvania Department of Vital Statistics. High fives all around!
Courtroom Countdown (Brace Yourself for Some Fees) - If things are a little more complicated, like one parent objecting to the change, then you'll need to file a petition with the Court of Common Pleas. This is where things get a tad more expensive. Expect filing fees to range anywhere from $97 to a whopping $330, depending on your county. Yikes! Don't worry, we haven't forgotten about you penny pinchers. Some counties offer fee waivers, so be sure to check with your local courthouse.
Important Note: This doesn't include lawyer fees if you decide to hire legal muscle.
QuickTip: Look for lists — they simplify complex points.
Beyond the Benjamins: Extra Costs to Consider
While the court fees might be the main event, don't forget about these potential side hustles:
- Publication Fees: Some counties require you to publish the name change in a local newspaper. Think of it as a public announcement for your child's new identity (minus the cape and tights).
- Certified Mail: Because who doesn't love the joy of snail mail? You might need certified copies of documents sent to interested parties, which can add a few extra bucks.
FAQs
How to Change My Child's Last Name with Both Parents on Board?
Tip: Read aloud to improve understanding.
- Fill out the Application for Change of Name form from the Pennsylvania Department of Vital Statistics.
- Attach a copy of your child's birth certificate and a copy of your photo ID.
- Send it all in with a check for $20 (payable to the Department of Health)
How to Find Out About Court Fees in My County?
 |
Contact your local Court of Common Pleas for the latest filing fee information.
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
How to Apply for a Fee Waiver?
Most counties have applications for fee waivers available online or at the courthouse.
QuickTip: Read section by section for better flow.
How Long Does the Name Change Process Take?
The simple route with the Department of Vital Statistics can take about 4-6 weeks. Court-involved name changes can take several months.
How Do I Update My Child's Social Security Number After a Name Change?
Contact your local Social Security office to get the process started.
 |
