What You Need to Do to Change Your Name at Social Security

The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not change your name for you — you change it first through your state, then tell Social Security about it. You will need to go to your local Social Security office or mail them documents that prove your legal name change. The SSA will update your record, and you will receive a new Social Security card in the mail with your new name.

The process itself is straightforward, but the timing matters. You cannot use Social Security to change your name legally — that happens in a courthouse or through vital records, depending on your state and reason for the change. Once that is done, Social Security's job is straightforward to match their records to the legal document you already have.

Key Takeaways

  • You must obtain a legal name change document from your state first — a court order, amended birth certificate, or marriage certificate — before Social Security will change anything.
  • You can visit a Social Security office in person with your documents, or mail them to your local office; both routes take roughly two to four weeks.
  • You will need your Social Security card, a government-issued photo ID, and proof of your legal name change.
  • Social Security will send you a new card by mail; you do not receive it on the spot at the office.
  • If you change your name, you should also update your name with your employer, bank, and insurance companies so your earnings record stays accurate.

Get Your Legal Name Change Document First

Social Security will only recognize a name change if you have a legal document to back it up. That document depends on why you are changing your name and where you live. The most common routes are a court order (for any reason), a new birth certificate (if you were born in that state), or a marriage or divorce certificate.

If you are changing your name by court order, you will go through your state's district or family court. If you are changing it because of marriage or divorce, your marriage or divorce certificate serves as your legal proof. Some states also allow you to amend your birth certificate directly through the vital records office. Contact your state's vital records office or courthouse to find out which document you need and how long it takes to get one.

Documents You Will Need at Social Security

Bring or mail three things: your current Social Security card, a government-issued photo ID, and your legal name change document. The photo ID can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID — anything with your picture and signature issued by a government agency.

Your legal name change document should be an original or certified copy. A photocopy usually will not work. If you are mailing your documents, do not send originals — send certified copies and keep the originals for yourself. The SSA will return your documents to you, but certified copies are safer in the mail.

Visit a Social Security Office or Mail Your Documents

You have two options: go in person to your local Social Security office, or mail your documents to that office. Both take about the same amount of time — two to four weeks from the date Social Security receives your documents.

To find your local office, go to ssa.gov and use the office locator, or call 1-800-772-1213. If you go in person, bring all three documents and be prepared to wait; Social Security offices are often busy. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now use an online appointment system. Check your local office's website before you go.

If you mail your documents, send them to your local Social Security office, not to the national headquarters. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, phone number, and a brief note explaining that you are requesting a name change. Use certified mail with return receipt so you know when it arrives. Keep copies of everything you send.

What Happens After You Submit Your Documents

Social Security will review your documents and update your record. You will receive a new Social Security card in the mail at the address on file. The card will show your new name and your same Social Security number. This usually takes two to four weeks, though it can take longer if Social Security needs to contact you for more information.

You do not need to do anything while you wait. Do not assume your name has been changed until you receive the new card. If more than four weeks pass and you have not heard anything, call 1-800-772-1213 to check on the status.

Update Your Name Elsewhere After You Get Your New Card

Once you have your new Social Security card, update your name with your employer, your bank, your insurance companies, and any other organization that has your Social Security number on file. This is important because if your name does not match your Social Security record, your employer cannot report your earnings correctly, and you may have problems with taxes, benefits, or loans later.

Start with your employer's payroll or human resources department. Then contact your bank, credit card companies, insurance providers, and the IRS. You will usually need to show them your new Social Security card and photo ID. Some organizations can update your name over the phone; others require you to visit in person or fill out a form.

Name Changes Due to Marriage or Divorce

If you are changing your name because you got married, your marriage certificate is your legal proof. You do not need a court order. Bring your marriage certificate, your current Social Security card, and your photo ID to your local Social Security office, or mail them in.

If you are changing your name because of a divorce, your divorce decree is your legal proof. Some states also issue a new birth certificate after a divorce if you want to go back to your maiden name; check with your state's vital records office. Either the divorce decree or the new birth certificate will work at Social Security.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a new Social Security card after I submit my documents?

Social Security typically mails your new card within two to four weeks of receiving your documents. If you have not received it after four weeks, call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status. Processing can take longer during busy periods or if Social Security needs to contact you for more information.

Can I use my old Social Security card while I wait for the new one?

Your old card is still valid while you wait for the new one. Your Social Security number does not change — only the name printed on the card changes. You can continue to use your old card for most purposes, though some organizations may ask to see the new card once it arrives.

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

You can handle both at the same time. Bring your legal name change document, your photo ID, and any other documents Social Security asks for. You do not need to bring your old card if it is lost. Social Security will issue a new card with your new name.

Do I need to change my name with the IRS too?

Yes. After you get your new Social Security card, contact the IRS to update your name on file. You can do this by mail using Form SS-5, or by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. Make sure your name matches your Social Security record so your tax returns process correctly.

What if Social Security says my legal name change document is not acceptable?

Social Security has specific rules about which documents they accept. If yours is rejected, ask the Social Security office which document they need instead. You may need to get a certified copy from your state's vital records office, or obtain a court order if you changed your name outside of marriage or divorce.