Where to Start: Social Security's Name Change Process

To change your name with Social Security, you file Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) at your local Social Security office or by mail. Social Security does not change your legal name — a court does that — but once your name is legally changed, Social Security updates their records to match. You will need proof of your legal name change, proof of citizenship, and a photo ID.

The process takes about two weeks if you apply in person, longer if you mail the form. Social Security will issue a new card with your updated name, which you then use to update other records like your driver's license, bank accounts, and employer payroll.

Key Takeaways

  • You must obtain a legal name change through a court before Social Security will update your records; Social Security itself cannot grant a name change.
  • Form SS-5 is the only form Social Security accepts for a name change, and you submit it in person at a local office or by mail with supporting documents.
  • Required documents include a certified court order showing your legal name change, a birth certificate or passport proving citizenship, and a photo ID.
  • Processing takes roughly two weeks in person or four to six weeks by mail, after which you receive a new Social Security card in your updated name.

Documents You Need to Bring

Social Security requires three categories of documents: proof of your legal name change, proof of citizenship, and proof of identity. For the name change itself, bring the certified court order from the court that granted your name change. Some states issue a separate "name change certificate" — bring that if you have it, along with the court order.

For citizenship, bring your original birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship. A photocopy is not enough; Social Security will examine the original and return it to you. For identity, bring a current photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you do not have a photo ID, Social Security has a list of alternative documents they will accept, but calling ahead to confirm saves a wasted trip.

Applying in Person at a Social Security Office

Walk into your local Social Security office during business hours with Form SS-5 and your documents. You do not need an appointment for a name change, though some offices now use online scheduling. Bring the original documents listed above; Social Security will not accept photocopies for citizenship or identity proof.

The office will review your documents on the spot, make copies for their file, and return your originals to you. If everything is in order, they will tell you when to expect your new card — usually within two weeks. If something is missing or unclear, they will tell you what else you need before they can process the form.

Applying by Mail

You can mail Form SS-5 with your documents to your local Social Security office. Call 1-800-772-1213 to find the mailing address for your area, or visit ssa.gov and use their office locator. Do not mail original documents; instead, have a notary public or your state's vital records office certify copies of your birth certificate and court order. Mail your certified copies, a photocopy of your photo ID, and the completed Form SS-5.

Processing by mail takes four to six weeks. Social Security will mail your new card to the address you list on the form. If you do not receive it within that timeframe, call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status. Keep a record of when you mailed the form and what documents you included.

What Happens After Your Name Changes

Once you receive your new Social Security card, use it to update your other records. Start with your employer's payroll department and your bank, since mismatches between your name and your Social Security number can cause problems with taxes and account access. Then update your driver's license or state ID through your state's motor vehicle department, your health insurance, and any other accounts or licenses that use your Social Security number.

Keep your old Social Security card until you have confirmed that all your records have been updated. Some organizations may ask to see both cards as proof of the change. After that, you can destroy the old card by cutting it in half and discarding it.

Name Changes for Minors and Legal Representatives

If you are changing a minor's name, a parent or legal guardian must apply on their behalf. Bring the minor's birth certificate, the court order for the name change, and the parent or guardian's photo ID. The minor does not need to be present. If you are a legal representative applying for someone who cannot apply themselves, bring a power of attorney or court order showing your authority, along with all other required documents.

The process and timeline are the same as for adults. The new card will be mailed to the address you provide on the form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my name with Social Security before I change my driver's license?

No. You can change them in any order. However, changing your Social Security name first is often simpler because you will have a new card to show when you update your driver's license. Some people do both at the same time by visiting their state's motor vehicle office and Social Security office on the same day.

What if my court order is from another state?

Social Security accepts court orders from any U.S. state or territory. Bring the certified copy of the order from that state's court. If the order is very old or unclear, Social Security may ask you to request a certified copy directly from the court that issued it.

Can I change my name with Social Security without a court order?

No. Social Security requires a certified court order showing that a court has legally changed your name. This applies even if you changed your name through marriage or divorce — you need the marriage certificate or divorce decree as proof of the legal change.

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

If you apply in person, expect your card within two weeks. If you mail your form, allow four to six weeks. Social Security will mail the card to the address you provide. If you need the card urgently, applying in person is faster.

What if Social Security says my documents are not acceptable?

Ask the office staff exactly which document does not meet their requirements and what alternative they will accept. If you disagree with their decision, you can file a written appeal with Social Security or contact your local Social Security office supervisor. Keep copies of everything you submitted.