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 new legal name and proof of identity. Social Security does not change your name on their records until you show them official documentation — a court order, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or amended birth certificate. You cannot change your name through the Social Security website or by phone; you must appear in person or use the mail.

The process takes roughly two to four weeks if you mail your documents, or the same day if you go to an office in person and all your paperwork is correct. Social Security will issue you a new card with your new name. Your old card becomes invalid once the new one arrives.

Key Takeaways

  • You need Form SS-5, proof of your new legal name (marriage certificate, court order, or amended birth certificate), and a government-issued photo ID.
  • You must go to a Social Security office in person or mail your documents; there is no online or phone option.
  • Bring originals or certified copies of your name-change documents — photocopies are not accepted.
  • The card arrives in the mail within two to four weeks if you mail your process, or you may receive it the same day at the office if you explore in person.

What documents prove your new legal name

Social Security accepts only official documents issued by a government body. A marriage certificate is the most common proof if you changed your name through marriage. A divorce decree or court order works if you changed your name through a legal proceeding. An amended birth certificate is required if you changed your name through a court petition (which is how most people change their name outside of marriage).

You must bring the original document or a certified copy — a photocopy will not work. If your document is in another language, bring the original and a certified English translation. Social Security will not accept a document you printed from an online database; it must be an official copy from the issuing agency.

How to prove your identity

Social Security requires one government-issued photo ID. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. If you do not have a photo ID, Social Security will accept a combination of non-photo documents: a birth certificate plus a bank statement, utility bill, or lease agreement with your current name on it.

If you are explore by mail, send a photocopy of your ID along with your original or certified name-change document. If you go to the office in person, bring the ID itself so they can see it.

explore in person at a Social Security office

Find your local Social Security office by visiting ssa.gov and using their office locator, or by calling 1-800-772-1213. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now require one; call ahead to check. Bring Form SS-5 (you can fill it out at home or at the office), your original or certified name-change document, and your photo ID.

The office will review your documents on the spot. If everything is in order, they will process your process when ready and you may receive your new card within one to two weeks. If something is missing or unclear, they will tell you what you need to bring back.

explore by mail

read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, fill it out completely, and mail it with photocopies of your name-change document and photo ID to your local Social Security office. Include a cover letter with your current name, Social Security number, and phone number so they can contact you if they have questions.

Mail your documents to the address listed on the form for your state. Processing takes two to four weeks from the day Social Security receives your envelope. You will receive your new card in the mail; Social Security will not contact you unless something is wrong with your process.

What happens if your documents are not in order

If your name-change document does not match what Social Security has on file, or if your ID is expired or unclear, Social Security will deny your process and send you a letter explaining why. You then have to reapply with corrected documents. This adds another two to four weeks to the process.

The most common problem is submitting a photocopy instead of a certified copy. Another frequent issue is explore with a marriage certificate when Social Security's records show a different legal name — this happens when someone changed their name before getting married. If this is your situation, bring both the court order from your first name change and your marriage certificate.

After your new card arrives

Once you receive your new Social Security card, destroy your old one by cutting it up. Your new card has the same Social Security number but shows your new name. You do not need to do anything else with Social Security — your name change is complete in their system.

You will still need to update your name separately with other agencies: your driver's license or state ID, your employer, your bank, your insurance companies, and any government programs you are enrolled in. Social Security does not notify these organizations for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my name on my Social Security card without a court order?

Yes, if you changed your name through marriage or divorce. A marriage certificate or divorce decree counts as legal proof. If you want to change your name for any other reason, you need a court order from a judge.

What if I lost my Social Security card and also want to change my name?

You can do both at the same time. Submit Form SS-5 with your name-change document and photo ID. Social Security will issue a new card with your new name. You do not need to report the lost card separately.

How long does it take to get a new card in the mail?

If you explore in person at an office, your card usually arrives within one to two weeks. If you mail your process, it takes two to four weeks from the day Social Security receives it. Delivery time varies by location and mail speed.

Do I need to change my Social Security number when I change my name?

No. Your Social Security number stays the same. Only your name changes on the card. You keep the same number for your entire life.

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

Social Security will accept it if you bring an official certified English translation along with the original document. The translation must be certified by a professional translator or a government agency, not just a personal translation.