Official Kentucky Name Change Petition Form | Step-by-Step Guide
Legally change your name through the court
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PETITION FOR NAME CHANGE State of Kentucky IN THE [ ] DISTRICT [ ] SUPERIOR [ ] CIRCUIT COURT OF [COUNTY] COUNTY, KENTUCKY Case No.: [TO BE ASSIGNED] PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME Petitioner [CURRENT LEGAL NAME] respectfully states: 1. Petitioner resides at [ADDRESS], [COUNTY] County, Kentucky KY. 2. Petitioner was born on [DOB] in [CITY, STATE]. 3. Petitioner's current legal name is: [CURRENT LEGAL NAME] 4. Petitioner requests the name be changed to: [NEW DESIRED NAME] 5. Reason for name change: [ ] Marriage [ ] Divorce [ ] Personal preference [ ] Other: [EXPLAIN] 6. Petitioner is not seeking a name change to defraud creditors or for any illegal purpose. 7. Petitioner [ ] has [ ] has not been convicted of a felony. 8. Petitioner [ ] is [ ] is not a registered sex offender. WHEREFORE, Petitioner requests this Court grant the name change in accordance with Kentucky law (KY Statutes). PETITIONER SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____ Print Name: _____________________ VERIFICATION: I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Signature: _____________________ DATE: _____
FAQ: Name Change Petition in Kentucky
Is a Name Change Petition required in Kentucky?
Yes, in Kentucky, a Name Change Petition is required for most transactions of this type. Under Kentucky State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by 2 individuals. Failure to use a proper Name Change Petition may result in legal complications.
Does a Name Change Petition need to be notarized in Kentucky?
Notarization requirements in Kentucky (KY) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $2. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.
What are the tax implications of a Name Change Petition in Kentucky?
Kentucky has a base sales tax rate of 6%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Name Change Petition, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a Kentucky tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Kentucky Name Change Petition Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Name Change Petition is legally valid in Kentucky.
Kentucky Notarization
Kentucky requires 2 witnesses and notarization may be mandatory. Fees typically range from $2.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In Kentucky, a 6% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. Kentucky law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
Kentucky Filing Deadlines
Check Kentucky deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
Name Change Petition Costs in Kentucky
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | Kentucky standard rate: $2 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in Kentucky |
| Sales Tax | 6% | Kentucky base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 2 witnesses | Kentucky requires multiple witnesses |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
Jennifer Rodriguez, J.D.
Estate Planning Attorney
Licensed in 5 states, 12+ years experience
Focuses on wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents
This Name Change Petition template for Kentucky has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Where to File Your Name Change Petition in Kentucky
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Name Change Petition.
Kentucky County Clerk
Kentucky Capital
Main Government Building, Kentucky
District County Clerk
Kentucky Metro Area
County Courthouse, KY
Kentucky Name Change Petition Legal Guide
In Kentucky, this document is legally binding under local statutes and provides essential protection for both parties involved in the transaction.
Pursuant to Kentucky State Code in Kentucky, this Name Change Petition must meet specific criteria. The applicable sales tax is 6%. Notarization, which costs $2 in KY, may be required depending on the transaction type. 2 witnesses are needed.
This document offers comprehensive legal protection tailored specifically to Kentucky's unique statutory framework.
What Kentucky Attorneys Want You to Know
Practicing lawyers in Kentucky emphasize three things: accuracy, completeness, and compliance with KY statutes. A well-prepared Name Change Petition saves time, money, and potential legal headaches down the road. When in doubt, a brief consultation with a Kentucky-licensed attorney is worth the investment.
Enforceability in Kentucky
A Name Change Petition that meets all KY requirements is fully enforceable in Kentucky. Courts in Kentucky have consistently upheld documents that demonstrate clear intent, proper execution, and compliance with state formalities. Keep your original signed copy in a secure location.
Getting It Done Right in Kentucky
Here's the practical approach: download, fill in your details, get signatures, and handle any KY-required notarization. Kentucky makes the process relatively straightforward, but attention to detail matters. Keep at least two copies — one for each party involved.
Kentucky Statutory Requirements
The KY legislature has established specific guidelines for name change petition documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
A Name Change Petition that meets all KY requirements is fully enforceable in Kentucky. Courts in Kentucky have consistently upheld documents that demonstrate clear intent, proper execution, and compliance with state formalities. Keep your original signed copy in a secure location.
Getting It Done Right in Kentucky
Here's the practical approach: download, fill in your details, get signatures, and handle any KY-required notarization. Kentucky makes the process relatively straightforward, but attention to detail matters. Keep at least two copies — one for each party involved.
Kentucky Statutory Requirements
The KY legislature has established specific guidelines for name change petition documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
The KY legislature has established specific guidelines for name change petition documents. These include proper execution formalities, witness requirements, and in some cases, mandatory filing with the county clerk's office. Non-compliance can result in legal complications.
Other Forms in Kentucky
Name Change Petition in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Name Change Petition
- State
- Kentucky (KY)
- Category
- Family
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 6%
- Notary Fee
- $2
Kentucky Legal Requirements
Governing Statute:
State Law
- ✓Consult with a licensed attorney for specific requirements
Legal Disclaimer
This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in Kentucky may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.