You cannot change your name entirely online through Social Security, but you can start the process online and finish it by mail or in person

Social Security does not offer a fully online name change. You must submit a signed process form and proof documents by mail or deliver them in person to a Social Security office. However, you can read the form and gather your documents online before you go, which speeds up the process significantly.

The fastest route is usually in-person at your local Social Security office, where staff can review your documents on the spot and catch missing paperwork before you leave. If you mail your process, expect the process to take four to six weeks from the date Social Security receives your envelope.

Key Takeaways

  • You need Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card), a signed government-issued ID showing your current name, and a document proving your legal name change — such as a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree.
  • Social Security offices accept applications in person, by mail, or through a representative, but not through their website or by phone.
  • Processing takes about two weeks in person (you leave with a receipt) or four to six weeks by mail.
  • You must show original documents or certified copies; photocopies alone are not accepted.

What documents you need before you go

Gather three categories of documents: your current Social Security card, proof of your legal name change, and a government-issued photo ID in your current name. If you do not have a photo ID yet in your new name, bring your old ID plus the document that proves the name change.

For proof of the legal name change, Social Security accepts a court order, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or adoption papers — depending on why your name changed. The document must be an original or a certified copy from the court or issuing agency. A photocopy, even if notarized, will not work. If you lost your Social Security card or it is damaged, bring that too.

If you are explore on behalf of someone else — a minor child, for example — you will also need to show your relationship to that person and your own ID.

how the process works in person at a Social Security office

Visit ssa.gov/locator to find the office nearest you and check its hours. Some offices require you to make an appointment online or by phone; others accept walk-ins. Call ahead if you are unsure, because wait times vary widely by location.

Bring your current Social Security card, your government-issued photo ID, and your original or certified name-change document. Arrive early if you are walking in without an appointment. A staff member will review your documents, fill out Form SS-5 with you if needed, and give you a receipt. You do not receive your new card that day — Social Security mails it to you within two weeks.

If any document is missing or unclear, the office will tell you what to bring back. This is why in-person is often faster than mail: you fix problems when ready instead of waiting for a letter asking you to resubmit.

how the process works by mail

read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, fill it out completely, and sign it. Make a photocopy for your records. Enclose your signed form, a photocopy of your government-issued ID, and a certified copy of your name-change document. Do not send originals by mail unless you are willing to lose them — use certified copies instead.

Mail your envelope to the Social Security office that serves your area. You can find the mailing address on the form itself or by searching your ZIP code at ssa.gov/locator. Send it by certified mail with return receipt so you have proof it arrived. Processing takes four to six weeks from the date Social Security receives it.

If documents are missing or incomplete, Social Security will mail you a letter explaining what else is needed. You then mail it back, which adds another four to six weeks. For this reason, double-check that everything is included before you seal the envelope.

What happens after you submit your process

If you applied in person, you receive a receipt and a new card arrives by mail within two weeks. If you applied by mail, Social Security sends you a letter confirming receipt, then mails your new card when processing is complete.

Your new Social Security card will show your new legal name. You will use this card to update your name with your employer, bank, insurance company, and other organizations. Some places may also ask for a copy of the document that proves your name change — keep certified copies on hand.

If you do not receive your card within the expected timeframe, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to check the status. Have your Social Security number and current name ready.

Common mistakes that delay your process

The most frequent error is submitting a photocopy of your name-change document instead of a certified copy. Social Security will reject it and send your process back. A certified copy has a raised seal or official stamp from the court or agency that issued it — your local courthouse can provide one for a small fee if you do not have it.

Another common mistake is not signing Form SS-5. The form must be signed in ink; an unsigned form will be returned. If you are explore for a minor, a parent or legal guardian must sign.

Sending originals by mail is risky because documents can be lost in transit. Use certified copies instead, and keep originals for your own records.

If you cannot go to an office in person

You can have a representative — a family member, lawyer, or social worker — submit your process in person on your behalf. That person must bring a signed letter from you authorizing them to act, along with their own ID and your documents.

If you are homebound or unable to travel, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to ask about a home visit. Staff can sometimes meet you at home to process your process, though availability varies by location and demand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my name with Social Security before I get a new driver's license?

No. You can update your driver's license first, then use it as your photo ID when you explore to Social Security. Or you can do both at the same time — the order does not matter. However, you will need some government-issued photo ID to prove your current name when you explore to Social Security.

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

If you explore in person, your new card arrives within two weeks. If you mail your process, expect four to six weeks from the date Social Security receives it. Certified mail with return receipt helps you know when it arrived.

What if my name change was through marriage but I do not have the original marriage certificate?

Contact the county clerk's office where you were married and request a certified copy of your marriage certificate. There is usually a small fee. A photocopy will not work — Social Security requires a certified copy with an official seal.

Can I change my name with Social Security if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You must have a valid Social Security number and a legal name change document, but citizenship is not required. Bring the same documents as anyone else: your ID, your current card, and proof of the name change.

What if I made a mistake on my process after I submitted it?

If you applied in person and realized the error before you left the office, tell the staff member when ready — they can correct it. If you already left or applied by mail, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to report the error and ask what to do next.