Name Change Petition in South Carolina — Free PDF & Word (2026 Updated)
Legally change your name through the court
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PETITION FOR NAME CHANGE State of South Carolina IN THE [ ] DISTRICT [ ] SUPERIOR [ ] CIRCUIT COURT OF [COUNTY] COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA Case No.: [TO BE ASSIGNED] PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME Petitioner [CURRENT LEGAL NAME] respectfully states: 1. Petitioner resides at [ADDRESS], [COUNTY] County, South Carolina SC. 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 South Carolina law (SC Statutes). PETITIONER SIGNATURE: _____________________ DATE: _____ Print Name: _____________________ VERIFICATION: I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Signature: _____________________ DATE: _____
Sarah Mitchell, J.D.
Legal Document Specialist
Licensed Attorney, 15+ years experience
Specializes in contract law and legal document preparation
This Name Change Petition template for South Carolina has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.
Last reviewed: March 2026
Name Change Petition Costs in South Carolina
Estimated fees and processing times
| Fee Type | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Notary Fee | $5-$15 (if required) | South Carolina standard rate: $5 |
| Filing Fee | Varies by state | State registration (if applicable) |
| Processing Time | 1-3 business days | Typical turnaround in South Carolina |
| Sales Tax | 6% | South Carolina base rate (local taxes may apply) |
| Witness Requirement | 2 witnesses | South Carolina requires multiple witnesses |
| Our Template | FREE | Download instantly, no cost |
South Carolina Name Change Petition Requirements
Review the following requirements to ensure your Name Change Petition is legally valid in South Carolina.
South Carolina Notarization
South Carolina requires 2 witnesses and notarization may be mandatory. Fees typically range from $5.
Before You Sign
Review all information carefully. In South Carolina, a 6% sales tax may apply.
Legal Protection
Keep copies of all signed documents. South Carolina law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.
South Carolina Filing Deadlines
Check South Carolina deadlines for filing or recording this document with the appropriate county clerk's office.
South Carolina Name Change Petition Legal Guide
For residents of South Carolina, ensuring this form is compliant with state-specific requirements is a top priority for legal validity.
Under South Carolina State Code, residents of South Carolina must ensure this Name Change Petition complies with all state requirements. The current sales tax rate is 6%, and notarization costs between $5. Two witnesses are mandatory in SC.
This professionally drafted form provides peace of mind knowing you're compliant with all South Carolina legal requirements.
What South Carolina Attorneys Want You to Know
Practicing lawyers in South Carolina emphasize three things: accuracy, completeness, and compliance with SC 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 South Carolina-licensed attorney is worth the investment.
Enforceability in South Carolina
A Name Change Petition that meets all SC requirements is fully enforceable in South Carolina. Courts in South Carolina 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 South Carolina
Here's the practical approach: download, fill in your details, get signatures, and handle any SC-required notarization. South Carolina makes the process relatively straightforward, but attention to detail matters. Keep at least two copies — one for each party involved.
South Carolina Statutory Requirements
The SC 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 SC requirements is fully enforceable in South Carolina. Courts in South Carolina 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 South Carolina
Here's the practical approach: download, fill in your details, get signatures, and handle any SC-required notarization. South Carolina makes the process relatively straightforward, but attention to detail matters. Keep at least two copies — one for each party involved.
South Carolina Statutory Requirements
The SC 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 SC 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.
FAQ: Name Change Petition in South Carolina
Is a Name Change Petition required in South Carolina?
Yes, in South Carolina, a Name Change Petition is required for most transactions of this type. Under South Carolina 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 South Carolina?
Notarization requirements in South Carolina (SC) 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 South Carolina?
South Carolina 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 South Carolina tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.
Where to File Your Name Change Petition in South Carolina
Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Name Change Petition.
South Carolina County Clerk
South Carolina Capital
Main Government Building, South Carolina
District County Clerk
South Carolina Metro Area
County Courthouse, SC
Other Forms in South Carolina
Name Change Petition in Neighboring States
Document Information
- Document
- Name Change Petition
- State
- South Carolina (SC)
- Category
- Family
- Format
- PDF / Word / Print
- Cost
- 100% Free
- Sales Tax
- 6%
- Notary Fee
- $5
South Carolina 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 South Carolina may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.