Book your appointment through Social Security's online system or by phone

To change your name with Social Security, you must schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office. You can book this appointment through my Social Security, the agency's online account portal, or by calling 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). The online portal typically shows available dates and times within two to four weeks, though this varies by location and current demand.

When you call, have your Social Security number ready. The representative will ask which office location works best for you, confirm your current legal name, and explain what documents you need to bring. If you cannot reach someone by phone, you can visit your local office in person to schedule, though walk-ins without appointments may face longer waits.

Social Security does not charge a fee to change your name. The process itself is free, though you may need to pay for certified copies of documents like a court order or marriage certificate if you do not already have them.

Key Takeaways

  • Schedule your appointment through my Social Security online, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local office.
  • You must bring a court order, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or other legal document proving your name change, plus your Social Security card and photo ID.
  • The appointment itself takes 10 to 20 minutes, and Social Security mails your new card within 7 to 10 business days.
  • Your name change with Social Security does not automatically update your name with other agencies like the IRS, state DMV, or your employer — you must contact each one separately.

What documents to bring to your appointment

Social Security requires proof that your name has legally changed. The type of document depends on why your name changed. If you married, bring your marriage certificate. If you divorced, bring your divorce decree or final divorce judgment. If you changed your name through a court order, bring that court order. If you are changing your name due to a gender marker change, bring the court order or state vital records document that reflects that change.

You also need to bring your current Social Security card and a photo ID. Acceptable photo IDs include a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. If you do not have a photo ID, Social Security accepts certain documents like a birth certificate, baptism record, or school ID, though the rules vary — ask when you schedule your appointment if you are unsure.

Bring original documents or certified copies. Social Security will not accept photocopies or notarized copies for the name-change document itself. If your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order is a photocopy, contact the court or vital records office that issued it to request a certified copy before your appointment.

What happens during your appointment

At your appointment, a Social Security representative will review your documents, verify your identity, and complete a form called the process for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5). You will sign the form in front of the representative. The entire process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes.

The representative will confirm your new legal name, your date of birth, and your current address. They will also ask whether you want your new card mailed to your current address or a different one. Social Security mails your new card within 7 to 10 business days in most cases, though delivery times can vary by location.

You do not receive your new card at the appointment. You will keep your old card until the new one arrives. Once the new card reaches you, destroy the old one by cutting it in half.

Updating your name with other government and financial agencies

Changing your name with Social Security does not automatically update your name with other agencies. You must contact each one separately. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires you to report your name change on your next tax return or by calling 1-800-829-1040. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has its own name-change process, usually requiring you to visit in person with your new Social Security card and proof of the name change.

Your employer's payroll department needs to know about your name change so they can match your W-2 form to your Social Security record. Contact your HR or payroll office and provide a copy of your new Social Security card or the court order. Banks, credit card companies, insurance providers, and loan servicers also need to be notified — each has its own process, usually involving a phone call or online account update.

If you have a passport, you will need to explore for a new one through the U.S. State Department. If you have a professional license, teaching certificate, or other credential, contact the issuing agency to update your name in their records.

If you cannot make your scheduled appointment

If you need to reschedule, log into my Social Security and cancel your appointment, then book a new date. Or call 1-800-772-1213 to reschedule by phone. Social Security asks that you cancel at least 24 hours before your appointment time so the slot can be offered to someone else.

If you miss your appointment without canceling, you may need to wait longer for the next available slot. Repeated no-shows can result in Social Security requiring you to call ahead before booking future appointments.

Name changes for minors and legal guardians

If you are changing a minor's name, the parent or legal guardian must attend the appointment with the child. Bring the child's Social Security card, a photo ID for the child (if available), a photo ID for the parent or guardian, and the court order or other legal document proving the name change. Some offices ask that the child be present; others allow the parent to handle it alone — confirm when you schedule.

If you are a legal guardian but not the parent, bring documentation of your guardianship along with the name-change document. The rules vary slightly by state, so call ahead to confirm what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Social Security mails your new card within 7 to 10 business days in most locations. Delivery time depends on your address and mail service. You can use your old card until the new one arrives, though some employers or financial institutions may ask to see the new card once it is issued.

Can I change my name online without going to an office?

No. You must attend an in-person appointment at a Social Security office to change your name. Social Security requires you to present original or certified documents and sign the process form in front of a representative.

What if I lost my Social Security card and need to change my name at the same time?

Bring your name-change document and photo ID to your appointment. Social Security will issue a new card with your new name. You do not need to replace the old card separately.

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

No. You can change your name with the DMV using your court order or marriage certificate. However, the DMV will eventually ask for your updated Social Security card or number, so it is practical to update Social Security first. The order does not matter legally.

What if my name-change document is from another country?

Social Security accepts name-change documents from other countries if they are certified and, in some cases, translated into English by a certified translator. Call 1-800-772-1213 before your appointment to confirm that your specific document will be accepted.