What you need to do to change your name on your Social Security card
To change your name on your Social Security card, you submit Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) to your local Social Security office, along with proof of your legal name change and proof of identity. The Social Security Administration does not change your name in their records based on what you tell them — they require official documents showing the court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree that made the change legal. You cannot do this online or by mail in most cases; you must appear in person at a Social Security office with your original documents or certified copies.
The process takes about two weeks from the day you submit your process, though this varies by office and how busy they are. You will receive your new card by mail at the address you provide. If you need the card faster, some offices offer expedited service, but you should call ahead to ask whether yours does.
Key Takeaways
- You must complete Form SS-5 in person at a Social Security office and bring original or certified copies of documents proving your legal name change.
- Acceptable proof of name change includes a court order, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or adoption papers — the document must show both your old and new name.
- You also need to bring a document proving your identity, such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card.
- Processing typically takes about two weeks, and your new card arrives by mail at the address you provide on the form.
Documents you must bring to the Social Security office
You need two categories of documents: proof of your legal name change and proof of your identity. For the name change, bring the original document or a certified copy from the court or government office that issued it. A photocopy is not acceptable unless it is certified.
Acceptable documents for name change include a court order from a name change proceeding, a marriage certificate, a divorce decree showing your new name, an adoption decree, or a certificate of naturalization if your name changed during the naturalization process. The document must clearly show both your old name and your new name. If you are changing your name through marriage or divorce, the marriage certificate or divorce decree itself serves as proof — you do not need a separate court order.
For proof of identity, bring one of these: a current driver's license, a state ID card, a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, or a tribal ID card. The document must have your photo and signature. If you do not have any of these, ask the Social Security office what other documents they will accept, as some offices have flexibility for people without standard ID.
How to find your local Social Security office and make an appointment
Visit ssa.gov and use the office locator tool to find the Social Security office nearest you. Enter your zip code or city name, and the tool will show you the address, phone number, and hours of operation for each office in your area.
Call the office directly to ask whether you need an appointment or can walk in. Many offices now require appointments, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. If an appointment is required, the office staff can schedule one for you over the phone or direct you to an online scheduling system. Some offices still accept walk-ins during certain hours, but calling first saves you a trip if the office is closed or fully booked.
When you call, mention that you are changing your name on your Social Security card. The staff can tell you exactly which documents to bring and whether your office offers expedited processing if you need the card quickly.
What happens when you submit Form SS-5 at the office
Bring your completed Form SS-5, your original documents or certified copies, and your proof of identity. You can fill out the form at home before you go, or you can fill it out at the office — either way works. The form asks for your current Social Security number, your old name, your new name, the date of your name change, and the reason for the change (marriage, divorce, court order, or other).
The Social Security representative will review your documents to make sure they are acceptable. They will make a copy of your identity document and keep it in your file. They will not keep your original name-change document — they will return it to you after they verify it. Ask for it back before you leave the office.
The representative will take your photo for your new card unless you already have a card photo on file that you want to use. If you do not want a new photo, tell them. Your new card will be mailed to the address you provide on the form within about two weeks.
Expedited processing and rush cards
Not all Social Security offices offer expedited processing, so call your local office to ask. If yours does, you may be able to receive your new card within three to five business days instead of two weeks. Some offices charge a fee for expedited service, while others do not — the policy varies by location.
If you need your card urgently for work or another reason, explain that to the office staff when you call to make your appointment. They can tell you whether expedited service is available and what it costs. In rare cases, the office may issue you a temporary card number or a letter stating your name change while you wait for the physical card to arrive.
What to do if you cannot find your original documents
If you have lost your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order, you can request a certified copy from the office that issued it. For a marriage certificate or divorce decree, contact the vital records office in the county where you were married or divorced. For a court order from a name change proceeding, contact the court clerk in the county where the order was issued.
Requesting a certified copy usually takes one to two weeks and costs between $10 and $30, depending on the office. You can often request it online or by mail, though some offices require you to visit in person. Once you have the certified copy, you can take it to the Social Security office along with your other documents.
If you cannot locate the original document and the office that issued it no longer has a record, ask the Social Security office what alternative documents they will accept. In some cases, they may accept a notarized statement from you explaining the situation, though this is less common.
Name changes for minors and people with guardians
If you are changing the name of a minor, the parent or legal guardian must appear at the Social Security office with the child and bring the same documents: proof of the legal name change and proof of the child's identity. A birth certificate, school ID, or passport can serve as proof of identity for a minor.
If you are a guardian changing a child's name through adoption or court order, bring the adoption decree or court order along with your own ID. If you are an adult with a legal guardian, your guardian must appear with you at the Social Security office and bring proof of guardianship, such as a court order appointing them as your guardian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name on my Social Security card without going to the office in person?
No, you must appear in person at a Social Security office with your original documents or certified copies. The Social Security Administration does not process name changes by mail or online. You can call ahead to schedule an appointment so you do not have to wait.
Do I need to change my name with Social Security before I change it with other agencies?
No. You can change your name with Social Security at any time after your legal name change is official. Many people change their name with the DMV or passport office first, then update Social Security. The order does not matter, but updating Social Security early helps prevent problems with tax records and benefits.
What if my name change was through marriage but I do not have my marriage certificate?
Contact the vital records office in the county where you were married and request a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $30. Once you have it, bring it to the Social Security office along with your ID.
How long does it take to receive my new Social Security card?
Standard processing takes about two weeks from the day you submit your process at the office. Some offices offer expedited service for three to five business days, but not all do — call your local office to ask. Your card arrives by mail at the address you provide on the form.
Do I need to notify anyone else after I change my name on my Social Security card?
You should update your name with your employer, your bank, your insurance company, and any government agencies that have your information on file. Social Security will not automatically notify these organizations. Updating them helps prevent problems with paychecks, tax returns, and benefits.