How to Change a SSN After Marriage

When you marry and change your name, it is important to change the name on your Social Security card. To change the name on your Social Security card, you must complete a new application for a Social Security card. You must also provide your original marriage certificate or a certified copy of the certificate to the Social Security office and then prove your identity. Prove your identity with a driver's license or passport that shows the name that the Social Security office has in your records.

Things You'll Need

• Marriage certificate (or certified copy)
• Driver's license or passport
• Application for Social Security card

Instructions

1. Visit the Social Security Administration website to download a free Social Security card application.

2. Fill out the application with your personal information. This includes your name, place of birth, date of birth, citizenship, ethnicity, race, sex and information about your parents (names and Social Security numbers).

3. Visit your local Social Security Administration office with your completed application, your original marriage certificate (or a certified copy) and proof of your identity. Acceptable proofs of identity include a driver's license or passport showing your previous name (the name the Social Security Administration has on file in your records).

Tips & Warnings

• You may also mail your application to the Social Security Administration; however, you will also have to mail the additional documents as well. The Social Security Administration will return your documents to you after verifying the name change.

• The Social Security Administration will only accept original documents or certified copies. Photocopies are not acceptable.

References

• SSA: Changing Your Name

Resources

• SSA: Social Security Application