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- 1). Visit a county family or probate court to obtain a name change petition form. These forms vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, so make sure you use the correct form. The clerk of the court can help you find the correct petition for your needs.
- 2). Fill out the name change form completely and accurately. The petition will likely require the child's current full legal name and Social Security number.
- 3). Obtain signatures of consent on the petition from both of the child's legal parents. If you have not completed adoption procedures, your signature is not sufficient. You will likely need the consent of the child's biological mother and father.
- 4). Return the completed petition to the clerk of the court. Filing fees vary among jurisdictions, but are typically under $100. Fee waivers may be available in cases of financial hardship. Inquire about payment options from the court's clerk.
- 5). Attend a name change hearing if one is scheduled. Your petition must be approved by a judge before the name change is legally valid. While hearings are not usually necessary, the judge may request one if there is something in your petition that requires clarification before approval. The court will notify you when the hearing will take place. If no hearing is necessary, you will receive a copy of the approved name change petition in the mail.
- 6). Submit a copy of the approved name change petition to the Social Security office to receive a new Social Security card for your stepson. Any other administrative records, such as school records, bank accounts or DMV records, should also be updated.
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