What you need to do to change your last name with Social Security

You report a last name change to Social Security by submitting Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) in person at your local Social Security office. You must bring an original or certified copy of the document that shows your legal name change — typically a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — plus your current Social Security card and a photo ID. Social Security does not process name changes by mail or online, and they do not accept name changes reported only to other agencies like the DMV or IRS.

The process takes about two weeks from the date you submit your application. Social Security will issue you a new card with your updated name and the same Social Security number. You keep the same number; only the name on the card changes.

Key Takeaways

  • You must apply in person at a Social Security office with Form SS-5, an original or certified legal document proving your name change, your current Social Security card, and a photo ID.
  • Social Security does not accept name changes by mail, phone, or online, and changing your name with other agencies does not automatically update your Social Security record.
  • Processing takes roughly two weeks, and you receive a new card with your updated name but the same Social Security number.
  • You will need to report the name change separately to your employer, bank, insurance company, and other organizations — Social Security does not notify them.

Documents you must bring to the Social Security office

Bring an original or certified copy of the legal document that proves your name change. Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, annulment decree, or court order of name change. The document must be issued by a government agency (county clerk, court, vital records office). Photocopies or notarized copies are not accepted unless the notary is a Social Security employee, which is rare.

You also need your current Social Security card, even if it is damaged or worn. If you do not have it, bring a document showing your current name and Social Security number, such as a tax return, W-2, or bank statement. Bring a photo ID issued by a government agency — a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. A school ID, work badge, or library card will not work.

If you are applying on behalf of someone else (such as a minor child or an adult who cannot go in person), you must bring proof that you have legal authority to do so, such as a power of attorney or guardianship papers.

How to find your local Social Security office and make an appointment

Visit 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 an appointment rather than accepting walk-ins. You can schedule an appointment online through the same locator tool, or call the office directly.

Wait times vary by location and time of year. Some offices have appointments available within a few days; others may have a wait of several weeks. If you call ahead, ask whether the office is currently accepting name change applications and what the typical wait is. Some offices temporarily close or reduce services due to staffing.

Bring all required documents with you. If you arrive without the correct documents, the office will not process your application and you will have to return another day.

What happens after you submit your application

Social Security will review your documents on the spot. If everything is in order, they will take your application and issue you a receipt. The new card is printed and mailed to the address on file, usually within two weeks. You do not need to do anything else — Social Security will contact you only if they need more information.

If there is a problem with your documents (for example, the name change document is not certified or is from a foreign country), the office will tell you what is missing and you will need to return with the correct paperwork.

Once you receive your new card, destroy your old one. You do not need to return it to Social Security.

Updating your name with other organizations after Social Security

Changing your name at Social Security does not automatically update your records anywhere else. You must report the name change separately to your employer, bank, insurance company, credit card companies, mortgage lender, utility companies, and any government agencies that have your information on file (IRS, state tax authority, DMV, etc.).

Start with your employer and bank, since they affect your paycheck and access to money. Bring your new Social Security card as proof of the change. For the IRS, file an amended tax return (Form 1040-X) if you filed under your old name, or notify them using Form SS-5-L if you have not yet filed. For your state DMV, apply for a new driver's license or ID card with your updated name.

Keep a copy of your legal name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) in a safe place. You may need to show it to multiple organizations as proof.

Name changes from marriage, divorce, or court order

If you changed your name through marriage, bring your original or certified marriage certificate. If you changed your name through divorce or annulment, bring the original or certified divorce or annulment decree. If you obtained a court order to change your name, bring the original or certified court order from the judge.

If your legal document is from outside the United States, Social Security may require an English translation certified by a translator. Call your local Social Security office before you go to ask whether they accept foreign documents and what translation they need.

If you changed your name more than once (for example, you married, then divorced, then married again), bring all the documents that show each change in order. Social Security will update your record to reflect your current legal name.

What to do if you cannot go to the Social Security office in person

Social Security generally requires you to apply in person. However, if you are homebound, in a hospital, or in a nursing home, you may be able to request that a Social Security representative visit you. Call your local Social Security office and explain your situation. They will tell you whether a home visit is possible in your area and how to request one.

If you are outside the United States, you can apply at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Contact the embassy or consulate in your country to find out which locations handle Social Security applications and what documents they need.

You cannot complete a name change by mail or phone under any circumstances. If someone tells you that you can, they are not representing Social Security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my name at Social Security if I only changed it with the DMV?

Yes. Changing your name at the DMV, IRS, or any other agency does not update your Social Security record. You must file Form SS-5 at a Social Security office to change your name in their system. Your Social Security record and your driver's license can show different names if you do not update both.

Can I change my name online or by mail?

No. Social Security requires you to apply in person at a local office with original documents. They do not accept applications by mail, phone, email, or online. If a website claims to offer online name changes for Social Security, it is not an official Social Security service.

How long does it take to get my new Social Security card?

The card is usually mailed to you within two weeks of your application. Delivery time depends on your location and the mail service. If you do not receive it within three weeks, call your local Social Security office to check the status.

Will my Social Security number change when I change my name?

No. Your Social Security number stays the same. Only the name printed on your card changes. You keep the same number for your entire life.

What if my legal name change document is damaged or faded?

Request a certified copy from the agency that issued it — the county clerk for a marriage certificate, the court for a divorce decree or name change order. A certified copy is an official duplicate with a raised seal or official stamp. Bring the certified copy to Social Security, not the original.