You'll need to visit the Social Security Administration in person or by mail

Changing your name on your Social Security record requires you to submit proof of your legal name change to the Social Security Administration (SSA). You cannot change your name online or by phone. The SSA will not update your record based on what you tell them — they need official documents showing the court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree that changed your name legally.

You have two main routes: visit a Social Security office in person with your documents, or mail your documents to your local office. The in-person route is faster because staff can review your documents on the spot and tell you if anything is missing. If you mail documents, the SSA will contact you if they need more information, which adds time to the process.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government-issued photo ID, proof of citizenship, and the official document that shows your legal name change (court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree).
  • The SSA will not process a name change without seeing the original or certified copy of the document that legally changed your name.
  • Visiting a Social Security office in person is faster than mailing documents because staff can check your paperwork when ready.
  • Your new Social Security card will arrive by mail within two to four weeks after the SSA processes your request.
  • You will need to update your name with other agencies separately — changing your Social Security record does not automatically update your driver's license, passport, or bank accounts.

What documents you need to bring

The SSA requires three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of your legal name change. For identity, bring a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The ID does not have to show your new name — it just needs to prove who you are.

For citizenship, bring your original birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. A certified copy of your birth certificate works if you do not have the original. For proof of your legal name change, bring the official document that changed your name: a court order from a name change proceeding, a marriage certificate, or a divorce decree. The SSA needs either the original or a certified copy — a photocopy is not enough.

If you are changing your name due to marriage, bring your marriage certificate. If you are changing it due to divorce, bring your divorce decree. If you are changing it for any other reason, you will need a court order from a judge approving the name change. Some states call this a "decree of name change" or "order to change name."

How to visit a Social Security office

Find your nearest Social Security office by visiting ssa.gov and using their office locator tool, or by calling 1-800-772-1213. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but calling ahead to confirm their hours and current wait times is a good idea. Some offices are busier than others, and a few locations do accept appointments.

Bring all three types of documents listed above. Arrive early in the day if possible — Social Security offices tend to have shorter waits in the morning. When you arrive, take a number or check in at the front desk. Tell the staff member that you are there to change your name on your Social Security record. They will review your documents, answer any questions, and submit your request.

The staff will give you a receipt showing that you submitted your request. Keep this receipt. Your new Social Security card will be mailed to you within two to four weeks. You do not need to return to the office — the card will come to the address on file with the SSA.

How to submit documents by mail

If you cannot visit an office in person, you can mail your documents to your local Social Security office. Call 1-800-772-1213 and ask for the mailing address of the office that serves your area. Do not mail documents to the national SSA headquarters — they must go to your local office.

Make copies of all your documents before you mail them. Mail the copies, not the originals, unless the SSA specifically asks for originals. Include a cover letter with your current name, your Social Security number, your new name, and a brief explanation of why your name changed (for example, "Due to marriage" or "Due to court order"). Include your phone number and email address so the SSA can contact you if they need more information.

Mail your documents using a method that provides tracking, such as certified mail or a carrier that offers delivery confirmation. Keep a copy of everything you send. The SSA will contact you if your documents are incomplete or if they need clarification. Processing by mail typically takes four to six weeks, compared to two to four weeks if you visit in person.

What happens after you submit your request

Once the SSA receives your request, they will review your documents. If everything is in order, they will update your Social Security record and mail you a new Social Security card with your new name. The card will be sent to the address the SSA has on file for you. If you have moved recently, update your address with the SSA before submitting your name change request.

If the SSA needs more information or if your documents are incomplete, they will contact you by phone or mail. This is why providing a phone number and email address is important. If you do not respond within a certain timeframe, your request may be delayed or denied.

You will receive only one new card. If you need multiple copies of your Social Security card, you can request additional cards at the same time you request the name change. Tell the staff member or include a note with your mailed documents asking for extra cards.

Updating your name with other agencies

Changing your name with the Social Security Administration does not automatically update your name with other government agencies or private companies. You will need to contact each one separately. Start with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to update your driver's license or state ID. You will typically need to bring your new Social Security card and the document that changed your name.

If you have a passport, contact the U.S. State Department or visit a passport acceptance facility to update it. If you have a bank account, credit cards, or loans, contact each financial institution to update your name. If you are employed, notify your employer's human resources department so they can update your payroll and tax records. If you receive benefits from any government program, contact that agency to update your name.

Keep your new Social Security card in a safe place. You will need to show it when updating your name with other agencies. Some agencies may also ask to see the original document that changed your name (the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), so keep those documents accessible as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my name on Social Security online?

No. The SSA does not offer online name changes. You must visit a Social Security office in person or mail your documents to your local office. Phone calls to the SSA about name changes will be directed to mail or in-person options.

How long does it take to get a new Social Security card?

If you visit an office in person, your new card typically arrives within two to four weeks. If you mail your documents, it usually takes four to six weeks. The exact timing depends on how busy your local office is and whether your documents are complete.

Do I need the original document that changed my name, or is a copy okay?

The SSA prefers a certified copy, which is an official copy stamped by the court or government office that issued it. An uncertified photocopy is not acceptable. If you do not have a certified copy, you can request one from the court that issued the document or from the vital records office in your state.

What if I lost my marriage certificate or divorce decree?

Contact the court that issued the document or your state's vital records office to request a certified copy. Most states can mail you a certified copy within one to two weeks for a small fee. You will need this certified copy before the SSA can process your name change.

Will changing my Social Security name update my driver's license automatically?

No. You must contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles separately to update your driver's license or state ID. Bring your new Social Security card and the document that changed your name when you visit.