Official Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania IN THE [ ] DISTRICT [ ] SUPERIOR [ ] CIRCUIT COURT OF [COUNTY] COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA Case No.: [TO BE ASSIGNED] PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME Petitioner [CURRENT LEGAL NAME] respectfully states: 1. Petitioner resides at [ADDRESS], [COUNTY] County, Pennsylvania PA. 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 Pennsylvania law (PA 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 Pennsylvania
Is a Name Change Petition required in Pennsylvania?
Yes, in Pennsylvania, a Name Change Petition is required for most transactions of this type. Under Pennsylvania State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by at least one individual. Failure to use a proper Name Change Petition may result in legal complications.
Does a Name Change Petition need to be notarized in Pennsylvania?
Notarization requirements in Pennsylvania (PA) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $5. 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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Name Change Petition Costs in Pennsylvania
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | Pennsylvania standard rate: $5 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in Pennsylvania |
| Sales Tax | 6% | Pennsylvania base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 1 witness | Single witness sufficient |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
Where to File Your Name Change Petition in Pennsylvania
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Name Change Petition.
Philadelphia County Clerk
Philadelphia
City Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Allegheny County Clerk
Pittsburgh
436 Grant St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Dauphin County Clerk
Harrisburg
101 Market St, Harrisburg, PA 17101
Pennsylvania Name Change Petition Legal Guide
According to Pennsylvania laws, this agreement holds legal weight once properly signed and notarized, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
For Pennsylvania (PA) residents, this Name Change Petition is governed by Pennsylvania State Code. Important details: sales tax at 6%, notary costs of $5, and a requirement for 1 witness. The document has indefinite validity once properly executed.
Using this template ensures you're protected under Pennsylvania law while saving time and money on legal fees.
Your Pennsylvania Filing Guide
After downloading, take your time filling in each section. PA statutes require that all information be accurate and current. Once signed by all parties, determine whether Pennsylvania requires you to file the document with a government office, record it with the county, or simply retain it for your records.
Enforceability in Pennsylvania
A Name Change Petition that meets all PA requirements is fully enforceable in Pennsylvania. Courts in Pennsylvania have consistently upheld documents that demonstrate clear intent, proper execution, and compliance with state formalities. Keep your original signed copy in a secure location.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Pennsylvania attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with PA law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when Pennsylvania law changes
Meeting Pennsylvania's Legal Threshold
For your Name Change Petition to hold up in a Pennsylvania court, it must satisfy the state's statutory requirements. PA law emphasizes clear language, mutual consent, and proper execution. We've built these requirements directly into our template.
A Name Change Petition that meets all PA requirements is fully enforceable in Pennsylvania. Courts in Pennsylvania have consistently upheld documents that demonstrate clear intent, proper execution, and compliance with state formalities. Keep your original signed copy in a secure location.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Pennsylvania attorneys frequently see these errors:
- Using an out-of-state template that doesn't comply with PA law
- Forgetting to include required witness signatures
- Leaving fields blank or using abbreviations
- Not retaining copies for personal records
- Failing to update documents when Pennsylvania law changes
Meeting Pennsylvania's Legal Threshold
For your Name Change Petition to hold up in a Pennsylvania court, it must satisfy the state's statutory requirements. PA law emphasizes clear language, mutual consent, and proper execution. We've built these requirements directly into our template.
For your Name Change Petition to hold up in a Pennsylvania court, it must satisfy the state's statutory requirements. PA law emphasizes clear language, mutual consent, and proper execution. We've built these requirements directly into our template.
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 Pennsylvania has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Pennsylvania Name Change Petition Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Name Change Petition is legally valid in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Notarization
While notarization may not be required in Pennsylvania, it is recommended. Fees range from $5.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In Pennsylvania, a 6% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. Pennsylvania law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
Pennsylvania Filing Deadlines
Check Pennsylvania deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
Other Forms in Pennsylvania
Name Change Petition in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Name Change Petition
- State
- Pennsylvania (PA)
- Category
- Family
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 6%
- Notary Fee
- $5
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.