How to Change Your Name in Minnesota (Without a Lawyer)

Court Process, Filing Fees, Timeline, and Total Cost Explained

Introduction (Fully Unique – Minnesota Focused)

Changing your legal name in Minnesota does not require hiring an attorney, and in many cases, you may never even step inside a courtroom. Minnesota’s district court system allows adults to request a name change through a straightforward filing process, as long as the request is lawful and properly documented.

This guide explains exactly how the Minnesota name change process works, how much it really costs, how long it takes, and what mistakes delay approval.

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice.

Who Is Eligible to Change a Name in Minnesota?

You can apply for a legal name change in Minnesota if:

You are 18 years or older

You currently live in Minnesota

Your request is not for fraud, identity evasion, or illegal reasons

You are not trying to avoid debts or criminal responsibility

Minors follow a different legal process and are not covered here.

Which Court Handles Name Changes in Minnesota?

All adult name changes are handled by the:

🏛️ Minnesota District Court

You must file in the county where you live, such as:

Hennepin County District Court

Ramsey County District Court

Dakota County District Court

Municipal courts do not handle name changes.

Step-by-Step: Minnesota Name Change Process (Adults)

✅ Step 1: Complete the Name Change Forms

Minnesota uses standardized forms, commonly titled:

“Application for Name Change (Adult)”

You will provide:

Current legal name

Desired new name

Date of birth

Address and county of residence

Reason for the name change (simple explanation is enough)

You must sign the form under oath.

✅ Step 2: File the Application with the District Court

You can file:

In person, or

By mail (some counties allow e-filing)

Required at filing:

Completed application

Valid photo ID

Filing fee

💰 Minnesota Name Change Cost (Real Breakdown)

Item

Cost

Court filing fee

$314

Certified copies (each)

$16

Publication notice

$40–$200

Background check (if ordered)

$30–$45

👉 Average Total Cost

$360 – $550

⚠️ Minnesota is one of the more expensive states for name changes.

✅ Step 3: Criminal Background Disclosure (Minnesota-Specific)

Minnesota requires you to:

Disclose criminal history

Provide fingerprints if the judge requests

📌 This step is stricter than many other states.

✅ Step 4: Publication Requirement (Important)

Most adult name changes in Minnesota require:

Publishing a legal notice in a local newspaper

The notice usually runs:

Once a week for two consecutive weeks

You may request a publication waiver if:

You are a victim of abuse

Privacy or safety is at risk

✅ Step 5: Court Hearing (Common in Minnesota)

Unlike some states, Minnesota often schedules:

A short court hearing

At the hearing:

The judge confirms identity

Asks basic questions

Reviews your reason

No lawyer is required.

✅ Step 6: Judge Signs the Name Change Order

If approved:

The judge signs a Name Change Decree

Request multiple certified copies

⏱️ Typical Timeline:
4–6 weeks from filing to approval

What to Do After Your Name Change Is Approved

🔹 Social Security Administration

Free update

Must be done first

🔹 Minnesota DMV

License update fee: $25–$40

New license mailed within 2–3 weeks

🔹 Passport, Banks, Employer

Certified court order required

Common Minnesota Name Change Mistakes (Unique)

❌ Underestimating the filing fee
❌ Publishing in the wrong newspaper
❌ Forgetting criminal disclosure
❌ Filing in the wrong county
❌ Not requesting enough certified copies

These mistakes cause delays or rejections.

Do You Need a Lawyer in Minnesota?

No.
Most adults successfully complete the Minnesota name change process without legal representation. A lawyer is only necessary for complex legal situations.

How Long Does the Minnesota Process Take?

Stage

Time

Filing & publication

2–3 weeks

Court hearing & review

1–2 weeks

ID updates

2–4 weeks

FAQs – Minnesota Name Change

1️⃣ Can I change my name in Minnesota without a lawyer?

Yes. The court system allows self-representation.

2️⃣ Is a court hearing required?

Often yes, especially for adult applicants.

3️⃣ Why is Minnesota more expensive?

Higher court filing fees and publication rules.

4️⃣ Can publication be waived?

Yes, if safety or privacy concerns exist.

5️⃣ Can a judge deny my request?

Only if it appears fraudulent or incomplete.

Final Thoughts

Minnesota’s name change process is structured but manageable. With correct forms, proper publication, and patience, most residents can complete the process without legal help.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Court rules, fees, and procedures may change. Always confirm with your local Minnesota District Court.