For many people, getting a legal name change is an important psychological step to help move on after a divorce.

However, it is important to recognize that changing your last name after a divorce can bring some confusion and complications. This is especially true when it comes to dealing with government agencies like the Internal Revenue Service and the Social Security Administration.

Since tax time is upon us, now may be a good time to review the steps everyone should take after changing their name.

The first thing to do is to inform the Social Security Administration of your new last name. To do that, you will need to file what is known as a "Form SS-5: Application for a Social Security Card." Include a copy of the court order or other official document authorizing your name change.

It is preferable to make this notification before you file your tax returns. Otherwise, the IRS's computer system will have difficulty matching your new name with the Social Security number shown on your tax returns.

If your children's names have been changed as well, you will also need to file a Form SS-5 on their behalf. Note that you cannot change a child's name without a court order.

Next, you will want to inform your employer, your retirement plan, your creditors and anyone else with whom you have financial transactions of your new name. Ensure that they make the appropriate changes to your files.

You will also want to visit your local department of motor vehicles to have a new identification card issued.

There may be other considerations present in your individual case. Talk with your divorce lawyer to make sure you are taking all the needed steps.

Source: Laguna Niguel Patch, "5 Tips for Recently Married or Divorced Taxpayers With a Name Change," Jan. 30, 2012.