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The cost for changing your name varies by state. In some states the fee is under $100, but other states may charge up to $500. Keep in mind that you may also have to pay a fee to a newspaper for publication in addition to the court filings.

The cost to file for a name change is $150, plus a $15 surcharge. Fees may be paid with cash, money order, or personal check. If you receive public benefits, have an income below the poverty line, or otherwise cannot afford $165, you may request that the fee be waived by declaring indigence.

Generally, the parents must agree on the name change, but in the case that they do not, the court will decide based on the best interest of the child.

Fees NameFeeUnitFiling Fee$150eachSurcharge$15eachFee for Citation (Notice) for publication, if required$15eachFiling fee for a motion to change name during divorce nisi period (if not requested on divorce complaint or petition)$100each

This means that, as long as the guardianship lasts, the child's parents do not have regular parenting rights. Most of a parent's rights are suspended during a guardianship, and the parent must ask the guardian or the court for permission to spend time with the child or help make decisions for the child.

To change your name legally as an adult in Massachusetts, you need to go through a court name change proceeding. Names can also be changed as part of an adoption, divorce, or sometimes a parentage judgment. If you get married, Massachusetts law allows you to adopt any surname (last name).