Property Records
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  • What information should appear on a Recorded Document?

    The document must be typed or filled out legibly in ink. It should include a complete legal description of the property and the parcel number. We recommend that you seek the advice of an attorney before filing documents that affect the ownership of your property. You should also file a Preliminary Change in Ownership Report with the deed when it is recorded. The Preliminary Change in Ownership Report is available on our website or by calling (619) 531-5848. If you have additional questions, please contact the Title Unit at (619) 531-5557.

    By State law, San Diego County Assessor/Recorder/County Clerk staff is not permitted to give legal advice or to assist in document preparation.
    ​

  • What is an Affidavit of Death or an Affidavit of Death of a Joint Tenant?

    This is a legal document that may be required by title companies or attorneys in order to make the death a matter of public record. The notarized document should be recorded in the San Diego County Recorder's Office with a certified copy of the death certificate. For recording information, please call (619) 238-8158.​

  • How do I report the death of a Property Owner?

    To report the death of a property owner, you may fill out a Preliminary Change in Ownership Report and send it to the Assessor's Office with a copy of the death certificate. The death of a property owner is a change in ownership and may affect your property taxes. Failure to report the death may result in penalties. If the property is in a trust, you may want to review the trust papers with an attorney.​

  • Will a Change In Ownership affect my Property Taxes?

    A change in ownership may result in an increase to your property taxes. If a transfer is between parent and child or between spouses, it may be excluded from reappraisal in certain circumstances. If you have any questions, please call (619) 531-5848.​

  • How do I change the name on the Tax Bill Or Ownership Records?

    In order to change the name as it appears on assessment records, a new deed should be recorded. Record the notarized deed in the San Diego County Recorder's Office along with a Preliminary Change in Ownership Report. For recording information, call (619) 238-8158.

    We recommend that you seek legal advice and assistance from an attorney before filling out documents that affect the ownership of your property.​

 

 Property Assessments
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  • Are Boats and Aircraft subject to appraisal?

    Boats and aircraft are taxable and appraised annually at full market value. Their value is determined by reviewing purchase information and comparable sales. Information on their location and ownership is obtained from the State Department of Motor Vehicles, the United States Coast Guard, the Federal Aviation Administration, and on-site inspections of all marinas and airports. For more information, call (858) 505-6200.

    ​

  • When is Business Personal Property appraised?

    Unlike real property, business personal property is appraised annually. The owners of all businesses must file a property statement each year with the Assessor's Office detailing the cost of all their supplies, equipment, and fixtures at each location. This is required unless the Assessor's Office has already established the taxable value of the business and sent out a Notification of Value Card. Business inventory is exempt from taxation. For more information, call (858) 505-6100.​

  • Are manufactured homes subject to property taxes?

    Newly purchased manufactured homes, and those on permanent foundations, are subject to property taxes. As with real property, the assessed value of manufactured homes cannot be increased by more than 2% annually unless there is a change in-ownership or new construction. Older manufactured homes bought before June 30, 1980 are generally not subject to property taxes. They are licensed under the jurisdiction of the State Department of Housing and Community Development at (619) 645-2960.

    As a result of recent State legislation, the purchase of a manufactured home park by the residents will not cause a reassessment. Property taxes will remain at their current level and be prorated among the spaces. For more information, call (619) 531-5478.

     

  • What is a Change-in-Ownership Statement?

    This statement is required by State law to be filed with all property sales and transfers at the time of recording. If it is not filed, a $20 fee must be charged and the Assessor's Office will send out another statement to obtain the required information. This statement is used solely for appraisal purposes, and is confidential. For more information, call (619) 531-5848.​

  • Other than an appeal, is there another option to request a review of my assessment?

    Between January 1 and April 30, a taxpayer may submit a written request to the Assessor, indicating their opinion of value and providing supporting documentation, such as comparable sales that occurred three months prior or three months after January 1, or a recent appraisal. For the appropriate form visit www.sdarcc.com or go to any of our branch offices.

  • Under what circumstances should I file an appeal and when?

    The filing of an appeal becomes necessary when there is a difference of opinion regarding value or if a change in ownership has occurred.

    If an action taken by the assessor results in a supplemental billing, the taxpayer has 60 days from the mailing date of the bill to file an appeal.
     

    If the disagreement is regarding the assessment on the regular annual tax bill, the filing period is between July 2 and November 30, unless November 30 falls on a holiday or weekend, then it's the next business day. Under state law, if the current market value of your property as of January 1 falls below the assessed or taxable value as shown on your regular annual tax bill, the Assessor’s Office is required to lower the assessment. For applications call (619) 531-5777 or visit www.sdarcc.com.
    ​

  • How long will it take for the Assessor's Office to reassess the property based on my purchase?

    The Assessor is required to complete the assessments for each calendar year by the following June 30th. For example, all transfers occurring between January 1 and December 31, 2008, must be completed by June 30, 2009.

    At the start of each new fiscal year, July 1, the Assessor's Office has 6 months, January 1 to June 30, of work to begin processing. After the Assessor's Office reassesses a property for a change in ownership, the information is sent to the Auditor/Controller and finally the Treasurer/Tax Collector's Office for processing of a refund or bill, whichever is appropriate. Therefore, a supplemental refund or billing may not be generated for several months after a change in ownership occurs. In general, reassessments due to a change in ownership are usually processed within 4 to 6 months.​

  • What if I purchase a property at market value, but the assessment on the tax rolls is higher, and the tax bill coming due is based on that higher assessment? Should I pay the bill, file an appeal, or request a review of assessment?

    A.) The existing tax bill is due and payable as billed.

    B.) If the Assessor's Office accepts the purchase price as market value, a supplemental refund will be generated for the difference between the purchase price and the existing assessment on the tax rolls, prorated for the period of time remaining from the purchase date to the end of the fiscal year. The filing of an appeal or request for review of assessment is not required for this to occur.

     

  • What is a Supplemental Assessment?

    State law requires the Assessor to reappraise property, immediately upon change-in-ownership or completion of new construction. The Assessor's Office must issue a supplemental assessment which reflects the difference between the prior assessed value and the new assessment. This value is then prorated based on the number of months remaining in the fiscal year ending June 30. This supplemental is in addition to the regular tax bill. To appeal a supplemental assessment, an application must be filed with the Clerk of the Board within 60 days from the mailing of the tax bill. For more information, call (858) 505-6262.​

  • What about NEW CONSTRUCTION REAPPRAISALS?

    Copies of all building permits are sent to the Assessor's Office by the cities and County. If the construction is new (such as a room addition), a reappraisal is required. If the construction is for replacement, repair, or maintenance, a reappraisal is not required. In appraising new construction, the market value of the addition is determined and added to the value of the existing property. The existing property, however, is not reappraised. As with a change-in-ownership, the owner is notified of the new assessment and can appeal the value. For more information, call (858) 505-6262.​

  • When is Real Estate reappraised?

    Under State law (Proposition 13), real property is reappraised only when a change-in-ownership occurs, or upon completion of new construction. Except for these two instances, property assessments cannot be increased by more than 2% annually, based on the California Consumer Price Index. The property tax rate is 1% plus any bonds, fees, or special charges.

    When a sale or transfer occurs, the Assessor's Office receives a copy of the deed and determines if a reappraisal is required under State law. If it is required, an appraisal is made to determine the new market value of the property. The owner is then notified of the new assessment and has the right to appeal the value.
     
    The transfer of property between husband and wife does not require a reappraisal for property tax purposes. This includes transfers resulting from divorce or death. In addition, a refinancing will not cause a reappraisal. There are other exclusions for senior citizens, the disabled, and those involving parent/child transfers which are discussed later. For more information, call (858) 505-6262.

 

 Property Exemptions and Exclusions
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  • What is the Property Tax Assistance program?

    If you are blind, disabled, or 62 years of age or older and on limited annual income, the State provides for partial reimbursement on the property taxes on your home. Filing for this program will not result in a lien being placed on your property.

    For more information and the necessary application, call the State Franchise Tax Board (toll free) at 1-800-868-4171 or visit them on the web at www.ftb.ca.gov.

     

    This program has been suspended by the State Controllers' Office
    ​

  • What is Property Tax Postponement?

    If you are blind, disabled, or 62 years of age or older and on limited annual income, you may defer the property taxes on your house, condo, or manufactured home. This deferred payment is a lien on the property and generally becomes due upon sale, change of residence, or death.

    For more information and the necessary application, call the State Controller's Office (toll free) at 1-800-952-5661 or visit them on the web at www.sco.ca.gov.

    ​

     

  • How about Exclusion for Seniors and Disabled?

    Senior citizens 55 years or age or older, and those who are severely and permanently disabled, can buy a residence of equal or lesser value than their existing home and transfer their current taxable value to their new property. This provides property tax relief for seniors and the disabled by preventing a tax increase if they sell their existing home and buy another. For more information, call (619) 531-5481.​

  • Is there tax relief for Disabled Veterans?

    Veterans of the United States military who are rated 100% disabled as result of a service-connected disability, or who are compensated at 100% due to unemployability. For more information, call (619) 531-5773.​

  • Is there a Builder's Exclusion?

    New construction may be excluded from a supplemental assessment. The property must be for sale and unoccupied, and the builder must file a claim form with the Assessor's Office for any development of four units or less prior to or within 30 days from the start of construction. As of January 1, 2006 developments of more than four units automatically qualify for this exemption as long as the property is for sale and unoccupied. For more information call (858) 505-6262.​

  • How do I get a Homeowners' Exemption?

    If you own and occupy your home as your principal place of residence on January 1, you may apply for an exemption of $7,000 off your assessed value for an annual savings of approximately $70 on your property taxes. New property owners will automatically receive an exemption application. A homeowners' exemption may also apply to a supplemental assessment. For more information, call (619) 531-5772.​

  • Can I apply for Disaster Relief?

    Property destroyed by a calamity (i.e., fire) may be eligible for property tax relief. In such cases, the Assessor's Office will immediately reappraise the property to reflect its damaged condition. In addition, when it is rebuilt in a like or similar manner, the property will retain its previous taxable value. To qualify, you must file a calamity claim with the Assessor's Office within 12 months, and the loss must exceed $10,000 in value. For more information, call (858) 505-6262.​

  • What is the Parent/Child Exclusion?

    The transfer of real property between parents and children can be excluded from reappraisal for property tax purposes. The principal place of residence and up to a maximum of $1,000,000 in assessed value of any additional property may be transferred without a tax increase. An application must be filed with the Assessor's Office to determine eligibility for this exclusion. For more information, call (619) 531- 5848.​

  • What are Examples of Tax-Exempted Properties?

    Property used exclusively for religious worship, colleges, cemeteries, museums, schools, or libraries may qualify for an exemption from property taxes. Properties owned and used exclusively by a nonprofit religious, charitable, scientific, or hospital corporation are also eligible for an exemption. For more information call (619) 531-5763.​

 

 Recorded Documents and Maps
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  • Is there a notary in the building?

    Yes. For your convenience there is a notary located in Room 402 of the County Administration Center at 1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego.​

  • Do you record wills?

    Wills are filed with Clerk of Superior Court after death of the person who made the will. State law does not permit us to record wills.​

  • What is Documentary Transfer Tax?

    State law requires that we collect this tax for the county and cities on documents transfers. Documentary Transfer Tax is collected on all real property transfers when the value (or consideration) exceeds $100.00. The tax is based on the value (or consideration), minus any existing liens or encumbrances, at a rate of $.55 per $500.00 or fraction. (Revenue & Taxation Code 11911)​

  • How can I add another person to my deed (title)?

    State law prohibits us from providing assistance or advice in the preparation of legal documents. Most office supply and stationery stores carry legal documents that may fit your situation. You may contact your legal advisor for assistance in the preparation of your document. (Bus & Prof Code 6125)​

  • How do I fill out my Quitclaim Deed/Grant Deed, Affidavit of Death etc.?

    State law prohibits us from providing assistance or advice in the preparation of legal documents. You may contact a legal aid service listed in the yellow pages and or your legal advisor for assistance in completing legal documents. (Bus & Prof Code 6125)​

  • Where can I go to record a document?

    You may record your documents at the following locations:

    San Diego County Administration Center, 1600 Pacific Hwy, Suite 260, San Diego CA 92101. (619) 238-8158
     
    Chula Vista, 590 3rd Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910. (619) 238-8158
     
    El Cajon, 200 S. Magnolia Ave, El Cajon CA 92020. (619) 401-5700
     
    Kearny Mesa, 9225 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92123. (619) 238-8158
     
    San Marcos, 141 East Carmel St., San Marcos CA 92078. (760) 940-6868
     
    ​

     

  • How do I get Assessor's Parcel Maps?

    The Assessor's Office prepares and maintains over 27,000 maps delineating every parcel of property in the County. These parcel maps serve as a basis for all property assessments, and are continuously updated to reflect new subdivisions and surveys. These maps are available for review and purchase at the Assessor's San Diego Office or click here. For more information, call (619) 531-5588.​

    ​​
  • Are Public Records available?

    The Assessor's Office provides a public information service to assist taxpayers with questions about property ownership and assessments. Property ownership information is available for all properties in the County. It is available over the phone or in person at all Assessor's branch offices.

    The Assessor's Office also provides recent property sales information for public review as well as property characteristic information. Both the sales, and characteristic information are available online or in person at the San Diego Office. For more information, call (619) 236-3771.
    ​

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 Birth/Death/Marriage Records
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  • How do I obtain a certified copy of a vital record from another county or state?

    You must contact the state or county in which the event took place.​

  • How long does it take to obtain a copy of a certified copy of a vital record?

    If you apply for your certificate in person, in most cases it takes approximately 15 minutes. If you order by regular mail, it takes approximately 1 to 2 weeks.​

  • How much does it cost?

    A. Birth certificates are $28.00 each.
    B. Death Certificates are $21.00 each.
    C. Marriage certificates are $15.00 each.​

  • How do I obtain a copy of a vital record?

    You may obtain a certified copy of your vital record from any of our office locations. California State Law, Health and Safety Code, Section 103526, permits only an authorized person to receive a Certified Copy of a vital record. This legislation requires notarization of applications for these records when requested by mail.

  

 Marriage License and Ceremonies
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  • What do we need to do to get a marriage license/get married?

    1.       You both must be at least 18 years old. If either party is under age 18, you will need to contact Juvenile Court. The number is (858) 634-1600.
     
    2.       To purchase a marriage license you must make an appointment and appear together at the office of the San Diego County Clerk and present valid and current photo identification with a completed marriage license application.

  • Do I need to bring a witness?

    1.       You will not need a witness to purchase a marriage license.
     
    2.       If you are having a civil ceremony and have already purchased a non-confidential marriage license, you will need to bring at least one witness.  If you do not have a witness we can provide one for an $18.00 fee.
     

    3.       If you are having a civil ceremony and have already purchased a confidential marriage license, you will not need a witness.​

     

  • What types of identification is required?

    • A current Driver's License (no temporary or interim extensions accepted)
     
    • A current Passport
     
    • A current Military identification card
     
                                    • A current State identification card
     
    1.       Your identification must be current - if it is expired, we cannot issue the marriage license.
     
    2.       If either partner has been divorced or filed a "Termination of Domestic Partnership” within the last 90 days, he/she must also bring the final divorce decree or termination documents with the judge's signature and date.
    ​

  • How do I change my name?

     

    1.       Questions concerning name changes should be directed to the Social Security Administration, California Department of Motor Vehicles or any other applicable agencies before applying for the marriage license.
    2.     The Name Equality Act of 2007 gives specific rights to parties at the time they are applying for a California marriage license to choose and list on the marriage license the new name that each party will go by after marriage. Please refer to the Name Equality Act.

    ​

  • How much does a marriage license cost?

    1.       A non-confidential marriage license is $70.00.
     

    2.       A confidential marriage license is $89.00.​

     

  • What is the difference between a non-confidential record and confidential marriage license?

    1.       Non-confidential license: The ceremony can take place anywhere in California, and if either party is under 18 years of age they must contact the Juvenile Court for approval. Emancipated minors must provide court approval for a non-confidential marriage license. Certified copies are only available to authorized persons. Mail in requests must have a notarized signature from an authorized requestor.     
                                  

    2.       Confidential license: is a confidential record. Certified copies can only be obtained by the couple or by court order.  Mail in requests must have the couple's notarized signature. The ceremony can only take place in San Diego County. Both parties must be at least 18 years of age and living together as a couple. Confidential marriage licenses cannot be issued to minors.​

     

  • When will my marriage license expire?

    1.       You must use your marriage license within 90 days.
     
    2.       You may have a civil ceremony with us, or go to a chapel, church or other location instead.
     

    3.       The ceremony at our office is an additional $88.00.​

     

  • Does purchasing a marriage license make us married?

    1.       No. A ceremony must be performed after purchasing a marriage license for you to be married.
    ​

  • How soon can I get married?

     

    1.       You can get married as soon as you have a marriage license.​

     

  • When will the marriage certificate be ready to pick up?

    1.       A certified copy of your marriage certificate will be ready for purchase approximately two weeks from the time the license is received in our office.
     

    2.       A certified copy is $15.00.​

     

  • Where can we go to get a license and get married?

     

    Days
    Location
    Office Hours
    Monday-Friday
     
    Downtown-Suite 273
    1600 Pacific Highway
    San Diego, CA 92101
     
     
    Appointment Only
    8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
    Monday-Friday
     
    San Marcos
    141 E. Carmel St.
    San Marcos, 92078
     
     
    Appointment Only
    8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
    Monday-Friday
     
    El Cajon
    200 S. Magnolia Ave.
    El Cajon, 92020
     
    Appointment Only
    8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
     
     
     
    Monday-Friday
     
    Chula Vista
    590 3rd Ave.
    Chula Vista, 91910
     
    Appointment Only
    8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
     
     
     
    Every 3rd Saturday of the month
     
    Kearny Mesa
    9225 Clairemont Mesa Blvd
    San Diego, 92123
     
    Appointment Only
    9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
     
    ​

     

  • Do I need an appointment?

     

    1.     Yes, phone lines are staffed Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 4:00pm. Please call (619) 237-0502 to schedule an appointment.

     

    ​

     

  • Can I walk into your office and get a license and ceremony without an appointment?

     

    1.       No.  Appointments for licenses and ceremonies are required.​

     

  • How long will I have to wait?

    1.       You will be seen in the order of your appointment and sign-in time.   
      

    2.       Schedule early.  There are a limited number of appointments available each day.​

     

  • Do I need a blood test?

    No. In California, there is no blood test requirement​

  • I was legally married in another state/country. Can I get married here also?

    1.       No. You are already married.
    ​

  • Is there a residency requirement to get married in California?

     

    1.       No. There is no residency requirement.​

     

  • How many people will the indoor ceremony rooms accommodate?
    1. Downtown San Diego 15 Guests
    2. San Marcos 15 Guests
    3. El Cajon 10 Guests
    4. Chula Vista 15 Guests
    5. Kearny Mesa 15 Guests
  • What form of payment is accepted?

    1.       Cash, checks or money orders are accepted.
     

    2.       American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa Debit cards are also accepted at any of our office locations with a $2.50 surcharge per transaction.​

     

  • Can you explain to me the “Deputy Marriage Commissioner for a Day” program?

    1.       For a fee of $80.00, your friend or relative may be commissioned to perform your wedding.
     
    2.       This person shall appear in person at any of our 5 office locations with the completed application and valid government issued identification. The clerk will give the applicant a short instruction and administer the Oath of Office. The applicant will be presented with a Certificate of Appointment as a Deputy Marriage Commissioner for a Day.
     

    3.       If the applicant cannot appear in person before the ceremony, they may submit the required notarized application by mail. The application for a Deputy Marriage Commissioner for a Day by mail is available on our website, please click here.  Please allow at least 4 weeks for processing.  The applicant will receive their Certificate of Appointment in the mail along with a sample of our wedding vows and instructions on how to complete the marriage license.  Please mail the completed / notarized application to:    
    San Diego Recorder/County Clerk
    Attn:  Marriage Commissioner
    P.O Box 121750
    San Diego, CA 92112-1750
    ​

 

 Fictitious Business Names
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  • Who has to file a fictitious business name?

    Any business using a fictitious business name must file a statement.​

  • Do I have to publish my fictitious business name?

    Yes. All new filings must be published. A list of approved newspapers will be given to you at the time of filing.​

  • Does a fictitious business name expire?

    Yes. A fictitious business name expires in 5 years. However, if a business address or the ownership changes, the statement expires and a new one with the current information must be filed.​

  • What is the filing fee?

    The fee is $42.00 for one owner and one business name. There is also a fee of $5.00 for each additional business name or owner name.​

 

 Name Equality Act
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  • What is the Name Equality Act?

    The Name Equality Act of 2007 (AB 102, Chapter 567, Statutes of 2007 amended by AB 1143, Chapter 512, Statutes of 2009) allows one or both applicants for a California marriage license to elect to change the middle and/or last names by which each party wishes to be known after solemnization of the marriage.​

  • What should the public know about the new law?

     One or both applicants to a California marriage may elect to change the middle and/or last names by which each party wishes to be known after they are married by entering the new name, as applicable, on the marriage license application.

    Each party to the marriage may adopt any of the following last names (Family Code Section 306.5(b)(2)):
    ·                 Current last name of the other spouse.
    ·                 Last name of either spouse given at birth.
    ·                 A name combining into a single last name all or a segment of the current last name or the last name of either spouse given at birth.
    ·                 A hyphenated combination of last names.
    Each party to the marriage may adopt any of the following middle names (FC Section 306.5 (b)(3)):
    ·                 Current last name of either spouse.
    ·                 The last name of either spouse given at birth.
    ·                 A hyphenated combination of the current middle name and the current last name of the person or spouse.
    ·                 A hyphenated combination of the current middle name and the last name given at birth of the person or spouse.
       
    ​NOTE: Parties to the marriage may not change their first name on the marriage license. Parties to the marriage may not add or amend this information after the marriage license is issued unless it is a clerical error and the amendment is signed by the county clerk or his or her deputy and one of the parties to the marriage.

    Parties to the marriage are not required to change their name, nor, are they required to have the same name.
     
    If one or both parties do not wish to identify a new name on the marriage license, the fields on the marriage license will be completed using two single dashes.

    You may not change the information on the marriage license after it has been issued by the County Clerk.

    The marriage certificate is used by multiple local, state, federal and private agencies, each of which have different requirements regarding what documents are acceptable to change your name on their records following marriage. It is recommended that you contact these agencies to verify their requirements prior to applying for your marriage license.

    County Clerk staff cannot provide you information on how to complete the marriage license application as it relates to the entry of a new name or retention of your former name on the marriage license application. For your protection, if you have any questions regarding whether you should or should not list your new name on the marriage license application, and/or how the Name Equality Act of 2007 may affect you, please consult with a private attorney prior to applying for your marriage license.
     
     
     
  • When does the new law take effect?

    This law applies only to marriage licenses issued on or after 01/01/2009.  Marriage licenses issued prior to 01/01/2009 are not covered under the Name Equality Act.

    ​

  • What does the new law mean?

    The Name Equality Act allows one party or both parties to a marriage, through the marriage license process, to elect to change the middle and/or last names by which that party wishes to be known after solemnization of the marriage. A certified copy of a marriage certificate containing the new name, or retaining the former name, shall constitute proof that the use of the new name or retention of the former name is lawful.  The new law also specifies that a certified copy of the marriage certificate shall be accepted as identification establishing a true, full name for purposes of obtaining a California driver’s license.
    ​

  • What if I am not sure what name I want to use after marriage or have questions related to my legal rights?

     

    If, at the time the marriage license is purchased, you have not decided on the name you wish to use after marriage, you may change your name at a future date through non-fraudulent usage or a court ordered name change.  If you are not sure how the changes may legally affect you or have legal questions about the Name Equality Act, please seek legal advice before purchasing a marriage license.​

     

  • Am I required to list the name on the marriage license that I will be known by following marriage?

    No.  You are not required to list the name on the marriage license by which you will be known following marriage.  If you choose not to change your name at the time you purchase your marriage license, you may not add or amend this information on the marriage license/certificate at a later date. If, after issuance of the marriage license but before the ceremony, you decide you want to have your new name added to the marriage license, you must purchase a new marriage license and have the old license voided.
    ​

  • What if I live in another state or country?

    There is no prohibition against including new name(s) on the marriage license when applicants do not reside in California or the United States. If you have legal concerns about how the changes may affect you in your particular state or country, you should seek legal advice before purchasing a California marriage license.
    ​

  • Will other agencies accept my new name?

     

    The marriage certificate is used by multiple local, state, federal and private agencies, each of which have different requirements regarding what documents are acceptable to change your name on their records following marriage.  It is recommended that you contact these agencies to verify their requirements prior to applying for your marriage license.​

     

  • What written information is the State required to provide?

    The law requires that the brochure entitled “Your Future Together” include information regarding the options the parties to the marriage have for choosing a new middle and/or last name upon solemnization of marriage. “Your Future Together” is published by the California Department of Public Health, Genetics Disease Branch.
    ​

  • Who should I call if I have unanswered questions related to this process?

    If you have read this pamphlet thoroughly and still have questions that were not answered in this pamphlet, you can contact your County Clerk/Recorder at (619) 237-0502 for further assistance.  You may also contact the California Department of Public Health, Office of Vital Records, Customer Service Unit at (916) 445-2684.  If you have specific questions how the changes may legally affect you or have legal questions about the Name Equality Act, you should consult with a private attorney.
    ​

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