What you need to do to change your name on your Social Security card
To change your name on your Social Security card, you fill out Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card), bring it to your local Social Security office with proof of your new legal name and your identity, and wait for the new card to arrive by mail. The process takes about two weeks from the day you submit your process, though it can be longer during busy periods. You do not need an appointment — you can walk in during business hours, though some offices now use an online appointment system.
The key requirement is proof that your name change is legal. This means a court order (from a divorce, name change petition, or adoption), a marriage certificate, or a divorce decree — depending on why your name changed. Social Security will not issue a new card based on a name you prefer or a nickname; the change must be documented in a legal record.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring Form SS-5, proof of your legal name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and a photo ID to your local Social Security office.
- The new card arrives by mail within two weeks in most cases, and you cannot use it until it arrives — your old card remains valid until then.
- You can find your local office and check hours at ssa.gov, and some offices now let you schedule an appointment online to avoid waiting.
- If you changed your name through marriage or divorce, bring the original or certified copy of the certificate or decree; photocopies are not accepted.
- You will need to update your name with your employer, bank, insurance company, and other organizations separately — Social Security does not notify them.
What documents to bring to the Social Security office
Bring three things: Form SS-5 (which you can fill out before you go or at the office), proof of your legal name change, and proof of your identity. For the name change, Social Security accepts an original or certified copy of a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order for a legal name change, or adoption decree. Photocopies are not accepted, and the document must show your old name and new name clearly.
For identity, bring a current photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a birth certificate and a utility bill in your name. Social Security will not accept expired IDs, and the name on your ID should match either your old name or your new name — if it matches neither, bring additional documents to explain the discrepancy.
How to fill out Form SS-5
Form SS-5 is a one-page form with sections for your current name, your new name, your date of birth, and your Social Security number. You can read it from ssa.gov or pick up a copy at your local Social Security office. Fill it out in black or blue ink, print clearly, and sign and date it. Do not leave fields blank — if a question does not explore to you, write "N/A".
The form asks why you are changing your name (marriage, divorce, court order, or other). Select the reason that matches your situation. If you are changing your name through marriage, write your maiden name in the "previous name" field. If you are changing your name through a court order unrelated to marriage or divorce, select "other" and be prepared to explain when you arrive at the office.
Finding your local Social Security office and what to expect
Go to ssa.gov and use the office locator tool to find the Social Security office nearest you. The locator shows hours of operation, phone numbers, and whether the office accepts walk-ins or requires appointments. Many offices now use an online appointment system; if yours does, you can schedule a time slot on the website to reduce waiting time. If your office does not have online scheduling, you can call ahead to ask about wait times.
When you arrive, bring all your documents and your completed Form SS-5. A Social Security representative will review your documents, verify that your name change is legal, and take your process. They will give you a receipt showing when your new card should arrive. The office will keep your old card and send your new one by mail to the address on file with Social Security.
What happens after you submit your process
Social Security processes your process and mails your new card to your address on file. This usually takes about two weeks, but can take longer if the office is busy or if Social Security needs to verify your documents. You can call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to check on the status of your card if more than three weeks have passed.
Your old card remains valid until your new one arrives. You do not need to do anything with the old card — Social Security does not ask you to return it. Once your new card arrives, you can destroy the old one or keep it for your records.
Updating your name with other organizations
Changing your name with Social Security does not automatically change it with your employer, bank, insurance company, or government agencies. You will need to contact each organization separately and provide proof of your legal name change. Most organizations ask for a copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Start with your employer and your bank, since these affect your income and access to your money. Then update your name with your insurance companies, credit card companies, utility providers, and any government agencies that have records under your old name (such as your state's motor vehicle department or tax authority). Keep copies of your new Social Security card and your legal name change document handy — you will need them often during this process.
What to do if you have lost your Social Security card or it is damaged
If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement using the same process: fill out Form SS-5, bring proof of identity and your Social Security number, and visit your local Social Security office. You do not need proof of a legal name change if you are not changing your name — only proof of identity. If your card is damaged, bring the damaged card with you so Social Security can see the problem.
You can request up to three replacement cards in a year and nine replacement cards in your lifetime. If you exceed these limits, Social Security may ask you to explain why you need so many replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my name on my Social Security card by mail or online?
No. Social Security requires you to appear in person at a local office with original documents. You cannot submit Form SS-5 by mail or through the website. However, you can fill out the form at home before you go, which speeds up the process at the office.
What if I do not have a certified copy of my marriage certificate?
Contact the vital records office in the county or state where you were married and request a certified copy. This usually costs $10 to $25 and takes one to two weeks by mail. Some states offer expedited service for an additional fee. You cannot use a photocopy or an uncertified copy — Social Security will reject it.
Do I need to change my name on my Social Security card if I changed it legally but am not using it?
No. If your name is legally changed but you do not use the new name, you do not have to update your Social Security card. However, if you use the new name for work, banking, or other official purposes, updating your card prevents mismatches between your records and your employer's or bank's records.
How long does it take to get my new Social Security card?
Most new cards arrive within two weeks of submitting your process. During busy periods or if Social Security needs to verify your documents, it can take up to four weeks. You will receive a receipt at the office showing an estimated arrival date.
What if my new card arrives with an error on it?
Contact your local Social Security office right away with your new card and proof of the correct information. Social Security will issue a corrected card at no charge. Bring the same documents you brought for your original name change process.