How to Change the Name on a Social Security Card in Minnesota

Original documents are required when changing your name on a Social Security card.

If you recently had an official name change in Minnesota due to marriage, divorce or any other reason, you also should update important documents like your vehicle title and birth certificate as well as identification cards such as your driver's license, U.S. passport and Social Security card, according to the Minnesota Judicial Branch. To obtain a Social Security card with your new name, you must submit proper original documentation and an application for an updated card.

Things You'll Need

• Documents showing name change, identity and U.S. citizenship/legal status
• Social Security card application

Instructions

1. Print out a Social Security card application (see Resources). You also can ask that an application form be mailed to you by calling the Social Security Administration hot line at 800-722-1213.

2. Locate originals of documents proving your legal name change, identity and U.S. citizenship or legal status (if you haven't presented proof of your citizenship or status previously). Evidence of legal name change includes marriage and divorce documents and court papers reflecting the new name. You may use a U.S. passport or your driver's license as proof of identity. To show your citizenship or legal status, you may use a U.S. passport, U.S. birth certificate or immigration papers. For a complete list of acceptable evidence documents, see Resources.

3. Submit your application and documents in person or by mail to a local Social Security office. There are 17 Social Security offices in Minnesota (see Resources for a list). However, if you live in the Greater Twin Cities Metropolitan Area, you must apply in person or by mail to the Social Security Card Center in Minneapolis.

Tips & Warnings

• Once your application is processed and your documents verified, you will receive a Social Security card with your new name in the mail. Your Social Security number will not change.

• For help during the application process, contact the Social Security Administration at 800-722-1213. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

• Retain copies of all application materials for your own records.

• All documents must be originals or certified copies. Photocopies and notarized documents are not acceptable.

References

• Minnesota Judicial Branch: What to do after a Name Change
• SSA: Application for a Social Security Card
• SSA: Documents You Need for a Social Security Card
• SSA: Social Security Card Center Information
• SSA: Changing a name on a Social Security Card

Resources

• SSA: Application for a Social Security Card
• SSA: Documents You Need for a Social Security Card
• SSA: Social Security Offices in Minnesota
• SSA: Greater Twin Cities Metropolitan Area Social Security Card Center