Colorado allows divorced individuals to restore a former name at no cost if requested within 60 days of the divorce decree, or for $105 after 60 days, under C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2. The name change after divorce Colorado process is handled ex parte, meaning the other spouse has no right to object, and no background check or newspaper publication is required. Colorado courts processed over 41,000 domestic relations cases in 2024, and name restoration remains one of the simplest post-divorce filings in the state. This guide covers both the divorce-decree restoration path and the standalone name change petition, with exact fees, required forms, and a 12-agency notification checklist updated for 2026.
Reviewed by Antonio G. Jimenez, Esq. (Florida Bar No. 21022)
Key Facts: Name Change After Divorce in Colorado
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Statute | C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2 (restoration via divorce) |
| Alternative Statute | C.R.S. § 13-15-101 (standalone petition) |
| Filing Fee (within 60 days) | $0 |
| Filing Fee (after 60 days) | $105 |
| Standalone Petition Fee | $98 (county court) or $268 (district court) |
| Background Check Required | No (restoration path) / Yes (standalone path) |
| Publication Required | No (restoration path) / Yes (standalone path) |
| Ex-Spouse Notification | Not required for either path |
| Residency Requirement | 91 days domicile for divorce filing |
| Key Forms | JDF 1824 (Motion), JDF 1825 (Order) |
What Are the Two Legal Paths for a Name Change After Divorce in Colorado?
Colorado provides two distinct legal paths for changing your name after divorce: restoration of a prior name through the original divorce case under C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2, or a standalone name change petition under C.R.S. § 13-15-101. The restoration path costs between $0 and $105, requires no background check, no newspaper publication, and no notice to the former spouse. The standalone petition costs $98 to $268, requires a fingerprint-based criminal history check costing approximately $89.50, and mandates newspaper publication costing $30 to $75 depending on the county.
The critical distinction between these two paths depends on the name you want. If you are restoring a prior full name, such as a maiden name or a name from a previous marriage, the divorce-decree restoration path under C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2 is the correct choice. Colorado courts must grant the restoration if the request poses no detriment to any person. If you want an entirely new name that you have never previously held, you must file a standalone petition under C.R.S. § 13-15-101, which involves additional requirements including a fingerprint-based background check conducted within 90 days of filing.
| Factor | Restoration via Divorce Decree | Standalone Name Change Petition |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2 | C.R.S. § 13-15-101 |
| Cost | $0 (within 60 days) or $105 (after 60 days) | $98-$268 + $89.50 background check + $30-$75 publication |
| Filing Location | Original divorce court | District or county court of residence |
| Background Check | Not required | Required (fingerprint-based, within 90 days) |
| Newspaper Publication | Not required | Required (unless court grants waiver) |
| Notice to Ex-Spouse | Not required (ex parte) | Not required (unless court orders it) |
| Timeline | Days to weeks | 2-4 months (including publication period) |
| Name Options | Prior full name only | Any name; felony restrictions may apply |
| Hearing Required | No | Typically yes |
How Do You Restore Your Maiden Name Through a Colorado Divorce Decree?
Colorado residents can restore a maiden name through the original divorce case by filing Form JDF 1824 (Verified Motion and Affidavit for Name Restoration) in the same district court that issued the divorce decree, under C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2. The court processes this request ex parte, meaning neither a hearing nor notice to the former spouse is required. Colorado law states that the court "shall grant" the restoration order if it confirms it issued the original decree and the name change poses no detriment to any person. This is the fastest and least expensive name change after divorce Colorado path available.
The step-by-step process for restoring a maiden name through a Colorado divorce decree includes:
- Obtain the case number and court location from your original divorce decree (Form JDF 1116)
- Complete Form JDF 1824 (Verified Motion and Affidavit for Name Restoration After Dissolution of Marriage)
- Include a sworn statement that the name restoration will not harm any person
- File the motion with the clerk of the original district court
- Pay the filing fee: $0 if filed within 60 days of the decree, or $105 if filed after 60 days
- The court reviews and signs Form JDF 1825 (Order for Name Restoration After Dissolution)
- Obtain at least 3 certified copies of the order at approximately $20 per copy
Colorado law imposes no deadline for requesting name restoration after divorce. A person divorced 1 year or 20 years ago can still file under C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2 in the original court, though the $105 filing fee applies after the initial 60-day window. The restoration order does not affect any rights, obligations, or responsibilities established under the original divorce decree.
Can You Request a Name Change During the Colorado Divorce Process?
Colorado residents can request a name change as part of the divorce petition itself, eliminating the need for a separate post-decree filing. The Colorado Judicial Branch provides a name restoration checkbox on Form JDF 1011 (Petition for Dissolution of Marriage) and Form JDF 1015 (Response to Petition for Dissolution). When the court grants the divorce, the name restoration becomes part of the final decree under Form JDF 1116, and no additional filing fee is charged beyond the standard $260 divorce petition fee.
Requesting a name change during the divorce proceeding is the most cost-effective approach in Colorado. The $260 divorce filing fee covers both the dissolution and the name restoration, compared to the $105 post-decree restoration fee or the $98 to $268 standalone petition fee. Colorado divorce attorneys routinely recommend including the name restoration request in the initial petition to avoid any additional court filings, fees, or delays after the decree is finalized.
What Does a Name Change After Divorce Cost in Colorado?
The total cost of a name change after divorce in Colorado ranges from $0 to $452.50, depending on the legal path and timing. The divorce-decree restoration path costs $0 when filed within 60 days of the decree or $105 after 60 days, plus approximately $60 for 3 certified copies. The standalone petition path costs $98 to $268 in filing fees, plus $89.50 for the mandatory fingerprint-based background check, plus $30 to $75 for newspaper publication, plus certified copy fees. As of March 2026, verify current fees with your local clerk, as Colorado filing fees increased effective January 1, 2025 under HB 2024-1286.
| Cost Component | Restoration Path | Standalone Petition |
|---|---|---|
| Court Filing Fee | $0 (within 60 days) or $105 | $98 (county) or $268 (district) |
| Background Check | Not required ($0) | $89.50 (CBI fingerprint check) |
| Newspaper Publication | Not required ($0) | $30-$75 (varies by county) |
| Certified Copies (3) | ~$60 | ~$60 |
| Total Range | $60-$165 | $277.50-$452.50 |
Colorado offers fee waivers for individuals who cannot afford court costs. Filing a Motion to File Without Payment and Supporting Financial Affidavit allows the court to waive the filing fee for qualifying low-income petitioners. The Colorado Name Change Project also provides free legal assistance for name changes in certain circumstances.
What Are the Residency Requirements for Filing in Colorado?
Colorado requires at least one spouse to have been domiciled in the state for a minimum of 91 days immediately before filing a divorce petition, under C.R.S. § 14-10-106. Colorado courts also impose a mandatory 91-day waiting period before finalizing any divorce decree, even when both spouses agree on all terms. For the post-decree name restoration path under C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2, the petitioner must file in the original court that issued the divorce, regardless of current residence.
Colorado defines "domicile" through several factors including a Colorado driver's license, vehicle registration, voter registration, property ownership, and employment within the state. If minor children are involved in the divorce, Colorado requires the child to have lived in the state for at least 182 consecutive days (approximately 6 months) before the court can exercise jurisdiction over custody matters under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA). The name restoration filing itself has no separate residency requirement beyond the original divorce having been issued by a Colorado court.
What Is the Complete Agency Notification Checklist After a Colorado Name Change?
After obtaining a Colorado name change order, residents must update their legal name with at least 12 federal, state, and private agencies in a specific sequence. The Social Security Administration must be notified first because most other agencies require an updated Social Security record before processing a name change. The Colorado DMV requires notification within 30 days of a name change under state law. The entire process of updating all records typically takes 4 to 8 weeks when completed in the correct order.
The recommended notification sequence for a name change after divorce in Colorado is:
- Social Security Administration (SSA): Submit Form SS-5 with a certified copy of the court order at your local SSA office; processing takes at least 24 business hours; this step must be completed before visiting the Colorado DMV
- Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Visit a local office with the certified decree or name restoration order (JDF 1825), proof of address, and updated SSA confirmation; Colorado law requires notification within 30 days
- U.S. Passport: Submit Form DS-82 (renewal) or DS-11 (new application) with the certified court order; processing takes 6-8 weeks for routine service
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): Update naturalization or citizenship certificates if applicable
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Automatically updated when the SSA processes the name change; ensure tax returns match the name on file with the SSA
- Colorado Voter Registration: Update through the Colorado Secretary of State or county clerk; available online at GoVoteColorado.gov
- U.S. Postal Service: Update mailing name online or at a local post office
- Banks and Financial Institutions: Update all accounts with a certified court order and updated government-issued photo ID
- Employer and HR Department: Update payroll records, W-4, and benefits enrollment
- Insurance Providers: Contact health, auto, life, and homeowner's insurance carriers individually
- Utility Companies: Update electric, gas, water, internet, and phone service accounts
- Professional Licensing Boards: Contact the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) or the relevant licensing board for your profession
What Court Forms Are Required for a Colorado Divorce Name Change?
Colorado requires Form JDF 1824 (Verified Motion and Affidavit for Name Restoration After Dissolution) and Form JDF 1825 (Order for Name Restoration After Dissolution) for the post-decree restoration path under C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2. Both forms are available for free download from the Colorado Judicial Branch website at coloradojudicial.gov. If the name change is requested during the divorce proceeding, Forms JDF 1011 (Petition) or JDF 1015 (Response) include the name restoration request, and the decree itself (JDF 1116) serves as the legal name change document.
| Form Number | Form Name | Purpose | When Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| JDF 1824 | Verified Motion and Affidavit for Name Restoration | Requests post-decree name restoration | After divorce is final |
| JDF 1825 | Order for Name Restoration After Dissolution | Court order granting name restoration | Signed by judge after JDF 1824 |
| JDF 1011 | Petition for Dissolution of Marriage | Initial divorce filing (includes name restoration checkbox) | During divorce proceeding |
| JDF 1015 | Response to Petition for Dissolution | Response to divorce petition (includes name restoration checkbox) | During divorce proceeding |
| JDF 1116 | Decree of Dissolution of Marriage | Final divorce decree (may include name restoration) | End of divorce proceeding |
When completing Form JDF 1824, Colorado requires a sworn statement that the name restoration will not harm any person. The motion must include the original case caption and case number from the divorce proceeding. Filing a false affidavit is a criminal offense in Colorado, so the sworn statement carries legal weight. The court typically processes the ex parte motion within 5 to 10 business days, though processing times vary by judicial district.
How Long Does a Name Change After Divorce Take in Colorado?
The divorce-decree restoration path under C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2 typically takes 5 to 15 business days from filing to receiving the signed court order in Colorado. The standalone name change petition under C.R.S. § 13-15-101 takes 2 to 4 months due to the mandatory newspaper publication period and court hearing scheduling. Including the time required to update all government agencies and private accounts, the complete name change after divorce Colorado process takes 6 to 12 weeks from initial filing to full implementation.
| Stage | Restoration Path Timeline | Standalone Petition Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Filing and Court Processing | 5-15 business days | 1-2 weeks |
| Background Check | Not required | 1-2 weeks |
| Newspaper Publication | Not required | 3-4 weeks |
| Court Hearing | Not required (ex parte) | 1-2 weeks after publication |
| Total Court Process | 1-3 weeks | 2-4 months |
| SSA Update | 1-2 business days | 1-2 business days |
| DMV Update | Same day (in person) | Same day (in person) |
| Passport Update | 6-8 weeks (routine) | 6-8 weeks (routine) |
| Full Implementation | 6-10 weeks | 3-5 months |
What Recent Colorado Law Changes Affect Name Changes in 2026?
Two legislative changes enacted in 2024 affect name change filings in Colorado as of 2026. First, HB 24-1071 (effective April 19, 2024) amended C.R.S. § 13-15-101 to allow individuals with felony convictions to petition for a name change to conform with their gender identity, establishing that gender identity conformity constitutes "good cause" under the statute. Second, HB 2024-1286 (effective January 1, 2025) created the Equal Justice Fund Authority and added a $20 surcharge to most civil court filings across Colorado, including name change petitions.
The core divorce name restoration statute, C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2, has not been amended in the 2024-2026 legislative sessions. The restoration process, fees, and requirements remain unchanged. Colorado residents seeking a simple maiden name restoration after divorce continue to benefit from the streamlined ex parte process that has been in effect for over a decade. The $20 surcharge under HB 2024-1286 applies to new standalone petitions but does not affect the $0 fee for name restorations filed within 60 days of the divorce decree.
How Does a Name Change Affect Children's Names in a Colorado Divorce?
A parent's name change after divorce in Colorado does not automatically change the names of any minor children. Changing a child's name requires a separate legal proceeding under C.R.S. § 13-15-101, and both parents typically must consent or be given notice and an opportunity to object. Colorado courts evaluate child name change petitions based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as the child's preference (if the child is of sufficient age), the length of time the child has used the current name, and any potential confusion or difficulty the name change might cause.
Filing a name change petition for a minor child in Colorado costs $98 in county court or $268 in district court. The non-filing parent must be served with notice of the petition and has the right to object. If one parent objects, the court holds a hearing to determine whether the name change serves the child's best interests. Colorado courts generally disfavor changing a child's surname to exclude the non-custodial parent's name unless compelling circumstances exist, such as abandonment or a history of domestic violence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name to something other than my maiden name through a Colorado divorce?
No. The divorce-decree restoration path under C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2 only allows restoration of a prior full name, such as a maiden name or a name from a previous marriage. Colorado residents who want an entirely new name must file a separate petition under C.R.S. § 13-15-101, which costs $98 to $268 plus approximately $119.50 to $164.50 in additional fees for the background check and publication.
Is there a deadline to request a name change after divorce in Colorado?
Colorado imposes no deadline for requesting a name restoration after divorce. Under C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2, a person may file a motion for name restoration "at any time" after the decree of dissolution is entered. The only difference is cost: filing within 60 days of the decree costs $0, while filing after 60 days costs $105.
Does my ex-spouse have to agree to my name change after divorce in Colorado?
No. Colorado processes name restoration requests ex parte under C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2, meaning the former spouse receives no notice and has no right to object. The court grants the order based solely on the petitioner's sworn affidavit that the name change poses no detriment to any person.
How many certified copies of my name change order should I obtain?
Colorado residents should obtain at least 3 to 5 certified copies of the name restoration order (Form JDF 1825) at approximately $20 per copy. Certified copies are required by the Social Security Administration, the Colorado DMV, the U.S. Passport Agency, banks, and employers. Some agencies return the original after verification, but having multiple copies prevents delays.
Can I change my name on my Social Security card without a court order?
No. The Social Security Administration requires a certified court order, divorce decree with name restoration provision, or other legal document to process a name change. Colorado residents must present the certified copy of Form JDF 1825 or Form JDF 1116 (if the name change was included in the decree) along with Form SS-5 at a local SSA office. Processing takes at least 24 business hours.
What if I lost my divorce decree and need to change my name in Colorado?
Colorado residents can obtain a certified copy of a divorce decree from the clerk of the district court that issued the original decree. The fee for a certified copy is approximately $20 per document. Contact the Colorado Judicial Branch at coloradojudicial.gov to locate your case and request copies. You can also file a name restoration motion (JDF 1824) even without your original decree, as the court has access to its own records.
Do I need a lawyer for a name change after divorce in Colorado?
Most Colorado residents complete the divorce-decree name restoration process without an attorney. The Colorado Judicial Branch provides free downloadable forms (JDF 1824 and JDF 1825) and self-help instructions at coloradojudicial.gov. The ex parte process requires no hearing and no legal argument. However, the standalone petition path under C.R.S. § 13-15-101 involves more procedural requirements, and an attorney may be helpful if complications arise.
Does changing my name after divorce affect my credit history?
Changing your name after divorce in Colorado does not erase or alter your credit history. Once you update your name with the Social Security Administration and notify your creditors, the credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) link your new name to your existing credit file using your Social Security number. Both names may appear on your credit report as "also known as" for a period of time, and your credit score is unaffected by the name change itself.
Can I change my name back after remarriage and another divorce in Colorado?
Yes. C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2 allows restoration of any prior full name, not only the most recent prior name. A Colorado resident who has been married and divorced multiple times can restore a maiden name or any former married name through the divorce-decree restoration process. The $0 fee applies if filed within 60 days of the most recent decree, or $105 applies after 60 days.
Where do I file my name change motion if I moved out of Colorado after the divorce?
Colorado name restoration motions under C.R.S. § 14-10-120.2 must be filed in the original district court that issued the divorce decree, regardless of where the petitioner currently lives. Colorado residents who have relocated out of state can file the motion by mail or through an attorney. There is no residency requirement for the name restoration filing itself, only a requirement that the original divorce was issued by a Colorado court.