Because a Will or Trust is a binding legal document, you must use your full legal name. This is defined as the name exactly as it appears on the government-issued identification (such as a driver’s license or passport) that you will present to a Notary Public.
A Notary is legally required to verify your identity before you sign. If the name on your estate documents does not match the name on your ID, the Notary may refuse to notarize the documents, rendering them invalid.
Using Aliases for Maiden Names and Nicknames
If you own assets under a different name (e.g., a maiden name, a professional name, or a common nickname), you should add these as Aliases in your contact card.
Why it matters: Aliases are referenced in your legal documents to help your Executor or Trustee prove that assets held under those different names belong to the same person.
Examples: You might have a retirement account under your maiden name or digital assets under a shortened nickname.
Handling Name Changes (Marriage or Divorce)
If you are in the middle of a name change (e.g., you just got married but haven't updated your ID yet), we recommend following these steps:
Prioritize the Current ID: Always use the legal name currently shown on your identification for the "Full Legal Name" field. This ensures you can successfully notarize your documents immediately.
Add the Future Name as an Alias: You can list your future married name as an alias. This provides a clear link between your current and future identities.
Update Later: When you eventually experience a major life event (like the birth of a child or a significant change in assets), you can update the primary name in the platform to match your new ID and re-generate your documents.
Going on a trip? If you are traveling soon and want to finish your documents, do not wait for a legal name change. Use your current legal name so you can sign and notarize the documents today. It is always safer to have protection under your current name than to have no plan at all while waiting for paperwork.
Summary of the "Alias" Field
The "Alias" field is a powerful tool to bridge the gap between your past, present, and future names. Whether you use your maiden name as the alias or your future married name, it serves as a legal breadcrumb to help your Executor gather your assets without confusion.