What happens when you change your name on Social Security
When you legally change your name—through marriage, divorce, court order, or any other legal process—you need to tell Social Security so your records match your new identity. Social Security will issue you a new card with your updated name, and your Social Security number stays the same. This update affects your earnings record, tax filings, and any benefits you receive.
You do not need to change your name with Social Security before you change it legally. But you should do it as soon as possible after your legal name change is final, because mismatches between your name and your Social Security record can cause problems with employment, taxes, and benefits.
Key Takeaways
- You must have a legal document proving your name change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or updated birth certificate—before Social Security will process your request.
- You can change your name by visiting a Social Security office in person with your legal name-change document, your current Social Security card, and a photo ID.
- You cannot change your name online or by phone; Social Security requires you to appear in person and show original documents.
- The process is free, and you will receive your new card in the mail within two to four weeks after your visit.
Documents you need to bring
Social Security requires three categories of documents: proof of your legal name change, proof of your identity, and proof of citizenship or lawful presence in the United States.
For proof of name change, bring the original or certified copy of the document that shows your new name. This is typically a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you changed your name through a vital records office, bring the updated birth certificate. The document must be an official copy from the issuing agency, not a photocopy you made yourself.
For proof of identity, bring a photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you do not have a photo ID, Social Security will accept a non-photo ID like a bank statement, utility bill, or lease agreement, but you will need to bring two of them.
For proof of citizenship or lawful presence, bring your U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card). If you were born outside the United States, bring a passport or consular report of birth abroad.
How to visit a Social Security office
Find your nearest Social Security office by going to ssa.gov/locator or calling 1-800-772-1213. You can visit any office; you do not have to go to the one nearest your home. Many offices now let you schedule an appointment online, which usually means a shorter wait time than walk-ins.
Bring all three categories of documents listed above, plus your current Social Security card. Arrive during business hours, which are typically 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Some offices have extended hours on certain days. If you schedule an appointment, arrive a few minutes early.
At the office, tell the representative you want to change your name. They will review your documents, fill out the process (Form SS-5), and take your information. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will not pay any fee.
What to expect after your visit
Social Security will mail your new card to the address on file within two to four weeks. The card will show your new name and your same Social Security number. Keep your old card until the new one arrives, then destroy it.
Your Social Security record is updated when ready when you visit the office, even though the physical card takes time to arrive. This means employers and government agencies can see your name change right away in Social Security's system. However, you may want to carry a copy of your legal name-change document with you until your new card arrives, in case you need to prove the change to an employer or bank.
If you do not receive your card within four weeks, call 1-800-772-1213 to check on the status.
Updating your name with other agencies
Changing your name with Social Security is only the first step. You will also need to update your name with your employer, your bank, the IRS, your state's motor vehicle department, and any other organization that has your Social Security number on file.
Your employer needs your updated information for payroll and tax withholding. Contact your HR or payroll department and bring a copy of your new Social Security card or your legal name-change document. Your bank needs to update your account records; visit a branch or call the number on the back of your card. The IRS will receive your name change from Social Security automatically, but if you file taxes before your card arrives, use your new legal name on the return.
Your state's motor vehicle department issues driver's licenses and state ID cards. Visit your local DMV office with your legal name-change document and current ID to update your license. Rules vary by state, so check your state's DMV website for specific requirements.
Name changes for children and minors
If you are changing a child's name, you need a court order or amended birth certificate showing the new name. A parent or legal guardian must visit the Social Security office in person with the child (though the child does not have to be present in some cases—call ahead to ask). Bring the child's Social Security card, the legal name-change document, proof of the child's citizenship, and proof of the parent's or guardian's identity.
The process is the same as for adults: the office will update the record and mail a new card. If the child is old enough to have a photo ID, bring that too.
If you have already received benefits
If you receive Social Security retirement, disability, or survivor benefits, your benefit payments will continue under your new name. Social Security updates your record automatically when you change your name, so you do not need to notify them separately about your benefits. However, if you receive benefits under a different name than the one on your Social Security card, contact Social Security to make sure there are no payment delays.
If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the same rule applies: your payments continue, and Social Security updates your record when you change your name. If you are unsure whether your benefits are affected, call 1-800-772-1213 and ask to speak with a representative about your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name online or by mail?
No. Social Security requires you to visit an office in person and show original documents. You cannot change your name by phone, email, or online. This is a security measure to prevent fraud.
What if I lost my legal name-change document?
Contact the agency that issued it. If you were married, contact the vital records office in the county where you were married and request a certified copy of your marriage certificate. If you were divorced, contact the court that issued the divorce decree. If you had a legal name change through the court, contact that court. Certified copies usually cost between $10 and $25 and take one to two weeks to arrive.
Do I need to change my Social Security name before I change my driver's license?
No. You can do them in either order. However, many people change their driver's license first because they need it as a photo ID for the Social Security office. Check your state's DMV requirements to see what documents they need.
What if my name change was through a different country or state?
Bring the legal document from that country or state to your local Social Security office. The office will review it to make sure it is official and valid. If you have questions about whether a specific document will be accepted, call 1-800-772-1213 before you visit.
How long does it take to get my new card?
Social Security mails new cards within two to four weeks of your office visit. Mail delivery times vary by location. If you need proof of your name change before the card arrives, ask the Social Security office for a letter confirming your updated record, or bring a copy of your legal name-change document.