I could change my name to Louis Cyphre.
Just FYI, a legal name change does take quite a bit of effort. The court side of it is pretty simple and cheap, but keep in mind you must change social security, license, passport, health insurance, mortgage deed, bank accounts, investment accounts, retirement accounts, etc.
This is NOT true. In some states, Texas in particular; the court side of it can be rather complicated and expensive. As far as changing these other things that you mention - you don't HAVE to change ANYTHING if you don't want to. As a matter of fact, the only way you can legally change your SSN is to be enrolled in the witness protection program.
See my earlier post in this thread - I have first-hand knowledge in this area. There have been more times than once, that upon returning from an overseas trip; I've shown my passport AND drivers license to U.S. Customs officials. The D.L. is in my birth name and the passport is in my new name. Only one time did it raise eyebrows, but after consulting with his superiors; he returned and AGREED that it was perfectly legal to have two separate names.
As a matter of fact, the only way you can legally change your SSN is to be enrolled in the witness protection program.
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Then again.... I'm not a lawyer myself hehe
I'm not either. I'm just repeating what MY lawyer said. One of our lawyers is probably wrong - I hope it's not mine. :grin:
If your name is really "Lucifer" you can probably find a lawyer to do it pro bono.