What you need to do to change your name on your Social Security card

To change your name on your Social Security card, you fill out Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card), bring it to your local Social Security office with proof of your legal name change and proof of identity, and the Social Security Administration will issue you a new card with your updated name. The process takes about two weeks after you submit everything, though it can vary depending on how busy your local office is.

You do not need to change your name with Social Security before you change it with other agencies — you can do them in any order. However, many people find it easier to update Social Security first because you will need your new Social Security card to update your driver's license, passport, and bank accounts later.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring Form SS-5, proof of your legal name change (such as a court order or marriage certificate), and a government-issued photo ID to your local Social Security office.
  • The Social Security Administration will not mail you a new card — you must go in person to a Social Security office to submit your documents.
  • Processing typically takes about two weeks, but you can ask the office staff how long the current wait is in your area.
  • You will receive one replacement card free; additional cards cost money, so keep your new card in a safe place.
  • Your Social Security number does not change — only the name printed on the card changes.

Getting Form SS-5 and understanding what it asks

Form SS-5 is the official process for a Social Security card. You can read it from the Social Security Administration website (ssa.gov), pick it up at your local Social Security office, or have the office staff give you one when you arrive. The form is short — it asks for your current name, your new name, your date of birth, your Social Security number, your mother's maiden name, and your citizenship status.

Fill out the form completely and sign it. Do not leave blank lines. If a question does not explore to you, write "N/A" in that space. Bring the completed form with you to the Social Security office — do not mail it in advance.

Documents proving your legal name change

Social Security needs to see an official document that shows your name legally changed. The document you bring depends on why your name changed:

  • Marriage: An original or certified copy of your marriage certificate.
  • Divorce: An original or certified copy of your divorce decree that shows your new name.
  • Court order: An original or certified copy of a court order authorizing the name change. This is what you get if you went through a legal name-change process in court.
  • Adoption: An original or certified copy of your adoption decree.

A certified copy means the document has an official seal or stamp from the court or government office that issued it. A photocopy is not enough. If you do not have a certified copy yet, contact the court or office that issued the original document and request one — this usually costs between five and twenty dollars and takes one to two weeks.

Bringing proof of your identity

Social Security also needs to see a government-issued photo ID that matches your current name. Acceptable documents include a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The ID must not be expired, though Social Security may accept an expired ID in some cases — call your local office to ask if you only have an expired ID available.

If you do not have a government-issued photo ID, Social Security has a list of other documents it will accept as proof of identity, such as a school ID, employee ID, or medical records. Call your local Social Security office before you go in to confirm what documents they will take, because the rules can vary slightly by location.

Going to your local Social Security office

Find your nearest Social Security office by visiting ssa.gov/locator or calling 1-800-772-1213. Many offices now let you make an appointment online, which usually means a shorter wait. If you cannot make an appointment, you can walk in, but you may wait an hour or longer depending on how busy the office is.

Bring Form SS-5, your proof of legal name change, your proof of identity, and your current Social Security card if you have it. The staff will review your documents, make sure everything is filled out correctly, and take your process. They will give you a receipt showing that you applied.

What happens after you submit your process

The Social Security Administration will mail your new card to the address you provided on Form SS-5. This usually takes about two weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods. You will not receive a temporary card or a letter confirming your new name — you will only get the new card itself in the mail.

Once you receive your new card, keep it in a safe place. You get one free replacement card; if you lose it or need additional cards, there is a fee. Do not carry your Social Security card in your wallet every day — you only need it when you are opening a bank account, explore for a job, or dealing with government agencies.

Updating other documents and accounts after your card arrives

Once you have your new Social Security card, you can use it to update your name with other agencies and institutions. Start with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to update your driver's license or state ID, because you will likely need that updated ID to change your name with banks, employers, and insurance companies. Then update your passport with the U.S. State Department, your bank accounts, your employer's payroll system, and any insurance policies.

Keep your new Social Security card and your proof of legal name change (the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) together in a safe place. You may need to show both documents again when you update your name with other organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my name on my Social Security card by mail?

No. You must go in person to a Social Security office with your completed Form SS-5, proof of your legal name change, and proof of your identity. Social Security does not process name changes through the mail.

Do I need to change my name with Social Security before I change it with the DMV?

No. You can change your name with either agency first. Many people find it easier to update Social Security first because you will need your new Social Security card to update your driver's license, but the order is up to you.

What if I lost my Social Security card and also need to change my name?

Bring Form SS-5, proof of your legal name change, and proof of your identity to your local Social Security office. You do not need your old card. The office will issue you a new card with your updated name.

Does my Social Security number change when I change my name?

No. Your Social Security number stays the same for your entire life. Only the name printed on the card changes. Your employers, banks, and other organizations will use your Social Security number to match your old records to your new name.

How much does it cost to change my name on my Social Security card?

There is no charge for your first replacement card. If you lose your new card and need another one, Social Security charges a fee for additional cards. Call your local Social Security office for the current fee.