Mississippi Name Change Guide 2026

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed Mississippi attorney for advice specific to your situation.

Changing your name in Mississippi is a straightforward legal process through the Chancery Court. This guide covers everything you need to know.

Quick Facts: Name Change in Mississippi

Who Can Change Their Name in Mississippi?

You ARE eligible if:

• You are a resident of Mississippi
• You are at least 18 years old (minors need parent/guardian to petition)
• You are not changing your name to defraud creditors
• You are not changing your name to avoid criminal prosecution

Special Requirements for Minors

If changing a minor child's name:

• Both parents must typically consent
• If parents disagree, the court applies the best interest of the child standard
• Notice must be given to both parents
• The child's preference may be considered

The Name Change Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Complete Your Petition

1. Draft your petition including all required elements
2. Include your current name, requested new name, and reasons
3. State clearly that you are a Mississippi resident

Step 2: Get Your Petition Notarized

1. Take your unsigned petition to a notary public
2. Bring valid government-issued photo ID
3. Sign the petition in front of the notary

Where to find a notary:

• Banks and credit unions (often free for customers)
• UPS Store or FedEx Office ($5–$15)
• Courthouse

Step 3: File with the Chancery Court Clerk

1. Go to the Chancery Court Clerk's office in your county
2. Pay the filing fee ($50–$150)
3. The clerk will stamp your documents and assign a case number

Step 4: Publish Notice

1. The court may order you to publish notice of your name change
2. Publish in a newspaper of general circulation in your county
3. Publication typically runs once a week for 3 consecutive weeks
4. File the Affidavit of Publication with the court

Step 5: Attend Your Hearing

1. Dress appropriately (business casual)
2. Arrive 15–30 minutes early
3. Bring government-issued photo ID
4. Bring Affidavit of Publication
5. The judge will ask why you want to change your name

Step 6: Get Certified Copies of the Decree

1. After the judge signs your Decree, get at least 3 certified copies
2. You will need these to update official records

Chancery Court Locations in Mississippi

Hinds County (Jackson)

• Address: 407 E. Pascagoula Street, Jackson, MS 39201
• Phone: (601) 968-6500
• Filing Fee: Approximately $100

Harrison County (Gulfport)

• Address: 1801 23rd Avenue, Gulfport, MS 39501
• Phone: (228) 865-4000
• Filing Fee: Approximately $100

DeSoto County (Hernando)

• Address: 2535 Highway 51 South, Hernando, MS 38632
• Phone: (662) 429-1310
• Filing Fee: Approximately $100

Rankin County (Brandon)

• Address: 1001 Marquette Road, Brandon, MS 39042
• Phone: (601) 824-1440
• Filing Fee: Approximately $75

Jackson County (Pascagoula)

• Address: 2915 Canty Street, Pascagoula, MS 39567
• Phone: (228) 769-3040
• Filing Fee: Approximately $100

After the Decree: Updating Your Records

Step 1: Social Security Administration

1. Complete Form SS-5
2. Bring certified court order and ID
3. Visit your local Social Security office

Step 2: Mississippi DPS (Driver's License)

1. Bring court order and new Social Security card
2. Visit DPS office
3. Fee: $21

Step 3: Other Records to Update

• Bank accounts
• Employer/payroll
• Insurance policies
• Voter registration
• School records

Legal Aid Resources in Mississippi

Next Steps

1. Gather documents — ID, proof of residency
2. Complete petition — Contact Chancery Court
3. File with clerk — Pay filing fee
4. Publish notice — If required by court
5. Attend hearing — Required
6. Update records — Social Security, DPS, banks

Get Mississippi Name Change Documents

jurisdiction-correct Mississippi name change documents from Jurist-Diction include petition templates and instructions — starting at $37.

Templates are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. For legal advice, contact a licensed Mississippi attorney or Mississippi Center for Legal Services at (601) 948-4311.