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How to Change Your Name After Divorce in Ontario


Smiling woman with papers stands outside ServiceOntario entrance. She wears a beige cardigan and jeans. Building sign and blue sky visible.

After going through a divorce, many women in Ontario wish to return to their maiden name as part of reclaiming their identity and moving forward. The good news? If you assumed your spouse's surname upon marriage, your maiden name is still your legal name. This means reverting is more of a correction than a formal name change. Here's exactly how to change your name after divorce in Ontario, including every institution you'll need to notify.


Step 1: Update Your Government Identification

Your first stop should be a ServiceOntario Centre. You’ll need to bring the following:

  • Your Marriage Certificate – This shows the link between your maiden name and your married name.

  • Birth Certificate or Canadian Citizenship Certificate – This confirms your original name.

  • Current Identification – Such as your health card or driver’s license.


At the ServiceOntario counter, inform the representative that you wish to revert to your maiden name. Since this is a reversion and not a legal name change, there is no fee for updating your driver’s license or health card.



Step 2: Update Other Personal Records

How to Change Your Name After Divorce in Ontario: Essential Agencies to Notify


Once your primary ID has been updated, it’s time to inform other agencies and institutions.


Social Insurance Number (SIN)

Contact Service Canada to update your SIN record. Bring your updated ID and original documents.

  • Update your SIN with Service Canada


Passport

Apply for a new Canadian passport under your maiden name through Passport Canada.

  • You will need updated government ID and your birth or citizenship certificate.

  • Learn how to apply for a new passport


Banks and Financial Institutions

Visit your bank in person with your updated ID. Most will require:

  • Your updated government-issued photo ID

  • Your birth certificate or marriage certificate (if needed for clarification)


Be sure to update all:

  • Chequing and savings accounts

  • Credit cards

  • Investment and retirement accounts (e.g., RRSP, TFSA)


CRA (Canada Revenue Agency)

You can update your name with CRA through My Account or by phone. Have your updated SIN and ID ready.

  • CRA contact information


Workplace and Payroll

Provide your updated identification and SIN to your employer to ensure payroll and T4 records reflect your correct name.


Health Records

Ensure your updated name is recorded with:

  • Your family doctor

  • Dentist and other healthcare providers

  • OHIP (done automatically if you changed your health card through ServiceOntario)


Insurance Providers

Notify all personal, home, auto, and life insurance companies to update your name on policies.


Utilities and Subscriptions

Don’t forget to change your name with:

  • Internet and phone providers

  • Hydro and gas companies

  • Streaming services and other subscriptions


Important Notes

  • Legal Name Change Is Not Required: Because your maiden name remains your legal name, you do not need to go through a formal legal name change process.

  • Ensure Consistency: Make sure your updated name matches across all documents to avoid discrepancies in future identification or legal matters.


Ready to Reclaim Your Name and Identity?

Changing your name after divorce in Ontario is a symbolic and practical step forward. If you're facing emotional or legal challenges during or after your divorce, our conflict resolution specialists are here to support you.



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