Posted by Reverse Mortgage of America - Jessica on 5/12/10 11:21am
Msg #336024

renewing commission...then a name change...

i'm due to renew this year around november and i know CA takes forever, so i'm taking my test soon. i will be getting married in march and i will be changing my name.

off hand, does anyone know if there is there a time limit on when i must have my stamp issued?

i understand how to notify the sos and request a name change on my commission, but i don't want to purchase a stamp with my current name on it and then 5 months later purchase another one. forget that i won't be able to complete and notarizations in between november and march...i'll be busy wrapping up my wedding plans and it's not a concern .

this may seem silly, but i couldn't locate an answer.

Reply by Marian_in_CA on 5/12/10 1:19pm
Msg #336056

Per page 21 of the handbook...

"Send a completed name change form to the Secretary of State. Once approved, you will
be issued an amended commission that reflects your new name. Next, you will need to
file a new oath of office and an amendment to your bond with the county clerk within
30 days from the date the amended commission was issued in order for the name change
to take effect. Within 30 days of the filing, you must obtain a new seal that reflects
the new name. Once the amended oath and bond are filed, you may no longer use the
commission, including the stamp, that was issued in your previous name. If you fail
to file your amended oath and bond within the 30-day time limit, the name change will
become void and your commission will revert back to the previous name and you will
be required to submit another name change application. (Government Code sections
8213 and 8213.6)"


I think that's pretty darn clear.

You're going to have to fork over the cash for not just a new seal, but also a new oath with your county.

Seals are cheap... it's the oath/bond filing that will cost you.

Reply by Robert/FL on 5/12/10 1:23pm
Msg #336059

Re: Per page 21 of the handbook...

Have you considered just not changing your name until you have the time and money - or even waiting until you renew your commission next? In Florida there is no time limit as to when a woman must change her name after marriage. I performed a wedding for a couple who were going to keep the marriage a secret and the bride is not going to be changing her name for nearly 2 years, which the DMV assured her was no problem.

You can always use your married name socially but retain your maiden name for professional purposes. Just a thought.

Reply by Ernest__CT on 5/13/10 12:21am
Msg #336200

In this case, Robert/FL is probably correct.

Be sure that your state (especially the Secretary of State [or whomever commissions Notaries]) agrees with when / how a woman may change her name!