What you need to do to update your name with Social Security

To change your name on your Social Security record, you submit Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) to your local Social Security office, along with proof of your legal name change and proof of identity. Social Security does not change your name on their own — you must request it. The process takes about two weeks once Social Security receives your documents, though it can take longer if they need to verify information with other agencies.

You will receive a new Social Security card in the mail with your updated name. Your Social Security number stays the same; only the name on file changes. You do not need to explore for a new number unless you are changing your name for identity theft reasons, which is rare and requires a separate request.

Key Takeaways

  • You must complete Form SS-5 and bring it in person to a Social Security office with proof of your legal name change and a government-issued ID.
  • Proof of legal name change means a court order, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or adoption papers — the document that officially changed your name.
  • The process takes roughly two weeks from the date Social Security receives your complete process.
  • Your Social Security number does not change; only the name on your record updates.
  • You will receive your new card by mail; do not expect it when ready when you leave the office.

What documents to bring to Social Security

You need three categories of documents: the process form, proof of your legal name change, and proof of identity. Start by downloading Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or picking one up at your local Social Security office. Fill it out completely before you go in — bring it partially filled and the office staff will ask you to finish it there, which adds time.

For proof of your legal name change, bring the original document or a certified copy. This is the court order, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or adoption papers that officially changed your name. A photocopy is not enough; Social Security needs to see the official document. If you lost it, you can order a certified copy from the court that issued it or the vital records office in your state.

For proof of identity, bring a current government-issued photo ID: a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. It must not be expired. If you do not have one, Social Security accepts a limited list of alternatives — call your local office to ask what they will take before you go in, because the list varies slightly by location.

How to find your local Social Security office

Go to ssa.gov/locator and enter your zip code. The site will show you the office nearest you, its hours, and its phone number. Call before you go to confirm the office is open and to ask whether you need an appointment. Some offices require appointments; others take walk-ins. If you call ahead, you can also ask whether they need any additional documents for your specific situation.

If you cannot visit in person, you can mail your process instead. Mail Form SS-5 along with photocopies of your documents (not originals) to your local Social Security office. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, and phone number. The process takes longer by mail — typically four to six weeks — because Social Security has to verify the documents are genuine. Ask your local office for their mailing address rather than using a general one, because some regions have specific processing centers.

What happens after you submit your process

Social Security will review your documents to confirm your legal name change is valid. If everything is in order, they process your request and mail you a new card. If they need more information or have questions about your documents, they will call you at the phone number you provided on the form. Answer calls from Social Security during business hours — if you miss the call, they will try again, but delays happen if you are hard to reach.

Do not expect your new card when ready. Even though the office processes your request in about two weeks, the card is printed and mailed separately, which adds another week or two depending on mail delivery in your area. If you need proof of your name change before the card arrives, ask the Social Security office for a letter confirming the change. They can print one for you on the spot or mail it to you.

Updating your name in other places after Social Security approves it

Once you receive your new Social Security card, you will need to update your name in other places: your driver's license or state ID, your bank, your employer, your insurance companies, and any government programs you use. Start with your state's DMV or equivalent — most states require you to update your ID within a certain number of days of a legal name change. Bring your new Social Security card and the court order or other document that changed your name.

Your bank, employer, and insurance companies need your updated information so their records match Social Security. This prevents problems with tax forms, paychecks, and claims. Call each one to ask what documents they need; most will accept a copy of your new Social Security card or the court order. If you receive benefits from any government program — unemployment, disability, housing information — contact that program to update your name there as well.

When you cannot visit an office in person

If you live far from a Social Security office, are homebound, or have another reason you cannot visit, you can mail your process. The process is slower but it works. Mail your Form SS-5 with photocopies of your documents to your local office. Social Security will review everything by mail and send you your new card. This route takes four to six weeks instead of two.

If you are outside the United States, you can still change your name on your Social Security record. Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country to ask how to submit your process. They can tell you whether you mail documents to them or directly to Social Security, and what additional steps are needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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, most people update Social Security first because your new Social Security card is proof of your name change, which the DMV will ask to see. If you update your driver's license first, you will need to bring the court order or marriage certificate instead.

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

Social Security will accept it, but they may ask for a certified English translation. Call your local office before you go in to ask whether they need a translation and whether it must be certified. If a translation is required, you can hire a translator or ask the court or government office that issued the document whether they provide translations.

Can I change my name on Social Security if I do not have a court order or marriage certificate?

No. Social Security requires official proof that your name legally changed. A court order, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or adoption papers are the only documents they accept. If you lost your marriage certificate, order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were married.

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

Social Security processes your request in about two weeks. Your new card is then printed and mailed to you, which takes another one to two weeks depending on mail delivery. Total time is usually three to four weeks from the date you submit your process at the office.

Will my Social Security number change when I change my name?

No. Your Social Security number stays the same for your entire life. Only the name attached to that number changes. You do not need a new number unless you are changing your name specifically to escape identity theft, which requires a separate request and is uncommon.