How to Change Your Name & Address With Social Security

Always provide up to date information to the Social Security Administration.

It is important for anyone receiving social security benefits to keep names and addresses current with the Social Security Administration (SSA) to continue receiving timely correspondence and avoid payment delays. In order to change both a name and address, you must involve a physical social security office. A name change cannot be done online or by telephone.

Things You'll Need

• Form of ID
• Proof of citizenship
• Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card)
• Document support for name change

Instructions

1. Gather supporting documentation for the changes being requested. Acceptable forms of documentation for a name change are a marriage certificate, divorce decree, certificate of naturalization, or a court order for a name change. A utility bill for the new address will suffice as supporting documentation for the change of address request.

2. Fill out form SS-5, the application for a social security card, found either on the SSA's website or in person at a SSA office. Only include the new requested changes on the application.

3. Mail or bring in the SS-5, proof of identity (such as a driver's license), and proof of citizenship (such as a passport) to a local Social Security office. All documentation must be original, the SSA does not accept photocopies or notarized true and certified copies of these documents to complete a name and address change request.

References

• Social Security Administration: Change Name
• Social Security Administration: Change Address

Resources

• Social Security Administration: Office Locator