Having two last names without a hyphen can cause confusion for some people.
People may think it is one of your middle names.
But it is legal to have as many names as you want, as long as the name is registered as your legal name.
When signing legal documents, you will need to include both names, even though you may only use one (or both) in informal contexts.
For example, many people from Latin American have two last names. They may keep one and drop one, or use both.
The Process of Changing Your Name
Deed poll
If you want to change your name, you can do so by deed poll.
A deed poll is a legal document that proves a change of name. It is an affidavit that is sworn in front of a solicitor or notary public.
The deed poll is then sent to all the necessary organisations to update your records.
These organisations include the DVLA, banks, and passport office.
Statutory declaration
You can also change your name by statutory declaration.
A statutory declaration is a written statement that declares something to be true. It is made in front of a solicitor or notary public, who will then sign it as a witness.
A statutory declaration can be used instead of a deed poll if you want to change your name for personal reasons, such as after getting married or divorced.
Can you legally have two last names?
FAQs – Two Last Names Without Hyphen
Can you have two last names without a hyphen in the US?
Yes, you can have two last names without a hyphen in the United States.
In the US, you can legally change your name to anything you want as long as you go through the proper channels to do so.
This means filing a petition with the court, paying any associated fees, and attending a hearing to prove that you are changing your name for a legitimate reason.
Can I have two last names without a hyphen in Australia?
Yes, you can have two last names without a hyphen in Australia.
In Australia, you can legally change your name to anything you want as long as you go through the proper channels to do so.
How do you alphabetize last names without a hyphen?
You either use the last name they go by or alphabetize by the first last name by order.
So, for example, if their last name is “Anderson Jones” you might consider alphabetizing based on Anderson rather than Jones.
Can you have two last names after marriage without a hyphen?
Yes, you can have two last names after marriage without a hyphen.
In the US, you can legally change your name to anything you want as long as you go through the proper channels to do so.
This means filing a petition with the court, paying any associated fees, and attending a hearing to prove that you are changing your name for a legitimate reason.
Can I have two last names on my passport?
You can travel with a passport that has two last names on it if those are what’s officially on your legal documents.
Can a baby have two last names without a hyphen?
Yes, two last names can be put on a baby’s birth certificate in most jurisdictions.
Is having two last names popular in any parts of the world?
Yes, it is common in countries like Brazil and other parts of Latin America:
How Do Spanish Surnames Work?
Conclusion – Two Last Names Without Hyphen
Having two last names without a hyphen can cause confusion for some people. People may think it is one of your middle names.
It is legal to have as many names as you want, as long as the name is registered as your legal name. You can change your name by deed poll or statutory declaration.
A deed poll is a legal document that proves a change of name.
A statutory declaration is a written statement that declares something to be true.
It is made in front of a solicitor or notary public, who will then sign it as a witness.
-
Related
