How to Change Your Name On Your Social Security Card
If you changed your name because of marriage, or divorce, or adoption, or if you legally had your name changed simply because you thought the name Ima DeBomb is a lot cooler than Jane McGillicutty, then be sure to update your Social Security card. Even if it's only to correct your name on your Social Security card, you should update your records as well. Here's how to do it.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
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1
Head to SocialSecurity.gov, where you'll find government form SS-5, "Application for a Social Security Card". The Application is used for name changes in the event of a change due to marriage, divorce, adoption or a legal court order. The form is also used for name corrections, as well as for first-time applications.
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Gather proof of your name and citizenship. The Social Security site details the necessary forms, but in general, government forms like a marriage certificate or divorce decree, or a court order for a name change, are required to change your name with Social Security.
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Follow directions at SocialSecurity.gov for completing and submitting your application, either through the mail, or in person. Note that you will need to submit your original documents (not copies) even if applying through the mail. They will be returned to you.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure you update your name change with your employer as well.
A mismatch between your new name and Social Security records can cause havoc with your tax refunds, and with your eventual receipt of Social Security benefits. Make sure your records are up-to-date.
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Comments
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Kim Marie
Dec 13, 2008
Good resources, this is easier than people realize! -
Missikae
Dec 11, 2008
Thanks for the information. Nice, clear instructions.
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Sidhartha
Dec 09, 2008
I did not know you could change this. Good food for thought
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leilulove
Dec 08, 2008
Being from the Memphis area, I thought it was great that you used Elvis' SS card!! LOL! Great article!
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melwetzel
Dec 08, 2008
If you have more complicated questions for Social Security (Wasatch for one), you can call their 1-800 number for some advice, or walk in to your local office and talk to a representative face to face. But the website has great resources too, nice article.
