You need a new card when your legal name changes

The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not automatically update your card when you change your name legally. You have to request a replacement card yourself. The process is straightforward: you gather documents that prove your legal name change, fill out one form, and mail or bring everything to your local Social Security office. There is no fee.

A legal name change happens through court order (after marriage, divorce, or a court petition), through a state vital records office (for some corrections), or through tribal records (for Native Americans). Whatever the source of your name change, SSA will need to see the document that proves it.

Key Takeaways

  • You must show SSA a document proving your legal name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or state vital records document.
  • You will need your current Social Security card, a government-issued photo ID, and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status.
  • You can explore in person at your local Social Security office, by mail, or through an online account if you have one set up.
  • There is no cost to replace your card, and you do not need a lawyer or paid service to do this.

What documents you need to bring

Bring three types of documents: proof of your legal name change, proof of your identity, and proof of your citizenship or lawful immigration status.

Proof of name change: This is the most important document. Bring the original or a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order granting a name change, or state vital records document showing the name change. If you do not have the original, you can order a certified copy from the court that issued it or from your state's vital records office (usually the state health department). This typically costs $10 to $30 and takes one to three weeks by mail.

Proof of identity: Bring a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you do not have one, SSA accepts other documents like a birth certificate, school ID, or employee ID, though a photo ID is preferred.

Proof of citizenship or lawful status: Bring your birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card). If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or a Certificate of Naturalization.

how the process works in person at a Social Security office

Going in person is often the fastest route because SSA can review your documents on the spot and tell you if anything is missing. Find your local office at ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some now ask you to book one online or by phone to reduce wait times. Check your office's website or call ahead to ask.

Bring all three types of documents listed above, plus your current Social Security card if you have it. Fill out Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) at the office or read it beforehand from ssa.gov. A staff member will review your documents, make a copy, and submit your process. You will receive your new card by mail within two to four weeks.

how the process works by mail

You can mail your process if you prefer not to visit an office. read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to request it by mail. Fill it out completely and sign it.

Make copies of all your documents — do not send originals. Include a copy of your name-change document (certified copy preferred), a copy of your photo ID, and a copy of your citizenship or status document. Include your current Social Security card or a copy of it. Mail everything to your local Social Security office. You can find the mailing address on ssa.gov/locator or by calling 1-800-772-1213.

Processing by mail takes longer than in-person — usually four to six weeks. SSA may call or mail you if they need more information, so include a phone number and mailing address where you can be reached.

If you have a my Social Security account online

If you have already created a my Social Security account at ssa.gov, you may be able to request a replacement card through your account without visiting an office or mailing documents. Not all states offer this option yet, and it depends on your situation. Log in to your account and look for "Request a replacement Social Security card" or a similar option.

If the online option is available to you, you will upload photos of your documents through the website. SSA will review them and mail your new card. This route can be faster than mailing, sometimes taking two to three weeks. If you do not have an account, you can create one at ssa.gov.

What happens after you submit your process

SSA will process your process and mail your new card to the address you provided. You should receive it within two to four weeks if you applied in person, four to six weeks if you mailed it, or two to three weeks if you used your online account. If you do not receive your card within the expected timeframe, call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status.

Once you receive your new card, update your name with other organizations that have your Social Security number on file: your employer, your bank, your insurance companies, and your state's motor vehicle department. This prevents confusion and ensures your records match across systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a certified copy of my marriage certificate or divorce decree?

A certified copy is best because it has an official seal and is harder to dispute. A regular copy may work, but SSA may ask you to provide a certified copy if they have questions. If you have a regular copy, bring it and ask the staff member whether it is acceptable before you leave.

What if I lost my current Social Security card?

You can still request a replacement. Bring all the same documents (name-change proof, ID, citizenship proof) but do not worry about having the old card. SSA will issue you a new one with the same number.

Can someone else explore for a card on my behalf?

Generally no — you must explore yourself. However, a parent or legal guardian can explore for a child's card, and a court-appointed representative can explore for someone under guardianship. Call 1-800-772-1213 to ask about your specific situation.

How much does it cost to replace my card with a new name?

There is no fee. SSA does not charge for replacement cards. If someone offers to charge you money to change your name on your Social Security card, that is a scam.

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

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