How to Change the Name on a Social Security Card After a Divorce
If you are getting divorced, one of the easiest ways to have your name changed is by petitioning the judge presiding over your divorce to include a court order restoring your maiden name on your divorce decree. This allows you to use your divorce decree as proof of your name change, which can then be used in applying for a name change on your Social Security Card. If your Divorce decree does not have a clause restoring your maiden name, you may be able to have the decree modified.
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Instructions
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Download Form SS-5: Application For A Social Security Card, by visiting the Social Security Administration homepage (see Resources).
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Print the form and then read the overview information.
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Complete the form by hand, making sure you write legibly and only use black or blue ink. The "Name to be shown on card" boxes in Section 1 must match the way you would like your name displayed on your new Social Security card.
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Get a certified copy of your divorce decree from the issuing authority. SSA does not accept photocopies or notarized copies.
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Get documented proof of your identity, such as your U.S. passport or state-issued ID. If you are not a U.S. citizen, submit your immigration document, such as your Permanent Resident Card and your foreign passport displaying your biometric information and photo.
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Take or mail your application and supporting documents to your local SSA office (see Resources). According to SSA, those who live in the New York City metropolitan area, Las Vegas, Orlando, Phoenix, Sacramento, Calif. or the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area must apply to their local Social Security Card Center.
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Tips & Warnings
SSA will return any original document you submitted with your application.
