What you need to do to change your name on your Social Security card

To change your name on your Social Security card, you submit Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) to your local Social Security office, along with proof of your legal name change and proof of identity. The Social Security Administration does not change your name in their records based on what you tell them — they require official documents showing the court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree that changed your name legally. You cannot do this online or by mail in most cases; you must appear in person at a Social Security office.

The process takes about two weeks after you submit your documents, though it can take longer if the office is backlogged. You will receive a new card in the mail. Your Social Security number stays the same — only the name printed on the card changes.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring Form SS-5 and original or certified copies of documents proving your legal name change — a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree.
  • You need a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) to prove your identity when you appear in person.
  • Visit your local Social Security office in person; you cannot complete this change by phone or mail.
  • Processing takes roughly two weeks, and you will receive your new card by mail at the address on file.
  • Your Social Security number does not change, only the name printed on your card.

Documents you must bring to the Social Security office

Bring the original or a certified copy of the document that proves your name changed legally. This is usually a court order (from a name change petition), a marriage certificate, or a divorce decree. The Social Security Administration will not accept a photocopy unless it is certified by the court or issuing agency. If you obtained your name change through a court, contact the clerk of that court and request a certified copy of the order.

You also need a photo ID to prove who you are. A driver's license, state ID card, U.S. passport, or passport card all work. If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a birth certificate and a utility bill in your current name.

Bring Form SS-5 filled out completely. You can download it from ssa.gov or pick one up at the Social Security office. Sign it in front of the office staff — do not sign it before you arrive.

Where to find your local Social Security office

Go to ssa.gov/locator to find the office nearest you. Enter your zip code and the site will show you the address, phone number, and hours. Many offices now require you to make an appointment instead of walking in. Call the office or use the online appointment system on ssa.gov to book a time slot.

If you cannot reach an office by phone, you can create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov and message them through that account. Response times vary, but this route is slower than calling or visiting in person.

What happens after you submit your documents

The Social Security office will review your documents on the spot. If everything is in order, they will take your application and tell you when to expect your new card. If a document is missing or unclear, they will tell you what else you need to bring back.

Your new card is mailed to the address on file with Social Security. If you have moved recently and your address is not current, update it before you go to the office, or tell the staff during your visit and they can update it for you. The card usually arrives within two weeks, though during busy periods it can take three to four weeks.

Name changes due to marriage or divorce

If you changed your name through marriage, bring your original or certified marriage certificate. If you changed your name through divorce, bring the original or certified divorce decree. Some states issue a separate document called a "Decree of Divorce" or "Final Judgment of Divorce" — either one works.

If your marriage certificate or divorce decree is from outside the United States, you will need an official English translation along with the original document. The translation must be certified by a court or a professional translator.

Name changes through a court order

If you petitioned a court for a legal name change (not through marriage or divorce), you need the certified court order granting the change. Contact the clerk of the court that issued the order and request a certified copy. Some courts charge a small fee for certified copies, usually between $5 and $25.

Bring the certified order to your Social Security office appointment. If the order is from a court outside the United States, you will need an official English translation certified by a court or professional translator.

What to do if you have already changed your name but your card still shows the old name

If your name changed years ago and you never updated your Social Security card, the process is the same: bring your proof of the legal name change (the court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree) and your photo ID to your local Social Security office. The fact that the change happened in the past does not affect what documents you need.

If you cannot find the original document, contact the court or agency that issued it and request a certified copy. For a marriage certificate, contact the vital records office in the state or county where you were married. For a divorce decree, contact the court clerk in the county where the divorce was finalized.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my name on my Social Security card by mail?

No. You must appear in person at a Social Security office with your documents and photo ID. The office staff must verify your identity and review your original or certified documents before they accept your application.

How long does it take to get a new card after I apply?

Most new cards arrive within two weeks of your appointment. During peak times or if the office is backlogged, it can take three to four weeks. You can check the status of your card by logging into your my Social Security account or calling your local office.

What if I lost my marriage certificate or divorce decree?

Contact the vital records office (for a marriage certificate) or the court clerk (for a divorce decree) in the county where the event occurred. Request a certified copy. There is usually a fee, typically $10 to $30. This certified copy is what Social Security needs.

Do I need to update my name anywhere else after I get my new card?

Your Social Security card is one document. You will also need to update your name with your employer, bank, insurance companies, state ID or driver's license, and any other organizations that have your information on file. Social Security does not notify these places automatically.

What if my name change was through a court order but I cannot find the order?

Contact the court clerk in the county where you filed the petition. Provide your old name, new name, and the approximate year of the change. The clerk can search their records and issue you a certified copy of the order. There is usually a fee for this service.