IfI go back to my maiden name, will it affect my house loan or checking account?
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IfI go back to my maiden name, will it affect my house loan or checking account?
I’m recently divorced. My ex-husband signed the house over to me, which is in a joint loan through a auto payment deduct checking account. Judge stated that I didn’t have to refinance.
Asked on August 2, 2011 Kentucky
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Legally, changing your name will not affect any of your assets (including accounts) or obligations (including a home loan)--people are allowed to legally change their names without affecting rights or responsibilities. That said, as a practical matter, there could be a negative impact if the bank, lender, etc. does not correctly change your name in its files and cross reference matters properly--e.g. if you send in a check signed in your maiden name, but they failed to correct their loan paperwork to reflect the maiden name, they may not credit you properly. This isn't to say that you can't or shouldn't go back to your maiden name--but if you do, make *sure* every institution, vendor, creditor, etc. adjusts their files. Try sending them letters, sent some way you can prove delivery (e.g. fedex, priority mail with delivery confirmation, etc.) with the name change request in writing, then follow up via phone to make sure it's been done.
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