You need to contact Social Security directly with proof of your legal name change
Social Security does not change your name on their own. You must tell them after you have legally changed your name through a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree. The process is straightforward: you gather the documents that prove your name change, visit your local Social Security office or call them, and they update your record. This usually takes a few weeks.
Your Social Security number itself does not change — only the name attached to it. This matters because your earnings record, benefits, and tax history all stay connected to that same number under your new name.
Key Takeaways
- You must have a legal document proving your name change before Social Security will update your record — a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree.
- You can start the process by visiting your local Social Security office in person, calling 1-800-772-1213, or using an online account at ssa.gov if you have one set up.
- Bring your Social Security card, proof of citizenship or legal residency, a photo ID, and the legal document showing your name change.
- The update usually takes two to four weeks, though you can use your old Social Security card until the new one arrives.
What documents you need to bring
Social Security requires original documents or certified copies. Photocopies or photos on your phone will not work. You need three things: proof of your legal name change, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and a photo ID.
For the name change itself, bring a court order (from a name change petition or divorce), a marriage certificate, or a divorce decree. If you were born outside the United States, bring your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. For the photo ID, a driver's license, passport, or state ID card works. If you do not have a photo ID, Social Security has a list of other documents they will accept — ask when you call or visit.
If you cannot find your original documents, you can request certified copies from the court that issued the order or the vital records office in the state where the event happened. This takes extra time, so plan ahead.
Visiting a Social Security office in person
Walking in with your documents is often the fastest way. Find your local office at ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213 to confirm hours. Some offices now use an online appointment system — you can book a time slot instead of waiting. Bring all your documents in a folder so nothing gets lost.
The staff member will look at your documents, fill out Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card), and submit it. You do not fill out the form yourself — they do it while you watch. Ask them for a receipt showing what you submitted. Keep it until your new card arrives.
Using the phone or online if you cannot visit an office
You can call 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in your time zone. Have your documents ready before you call. The representative will ask you questions to confirm your identity, then tell you how to send your documents. Some offices will mail you a prepaid envelope; others will ask you to mail them yourself.
If you have a my Social Security account at ssa.gov, you may be able to start the name change request online. Log in and look for "Change Your Name" or "Update Your Information." Not all offices offer this yet, so you may still need to mail documents or visit in person. The online option saves time if your office supports it.
What happens after you submit your request
Social Security processes name changes in the order they receive them. Most take two to four weeks, but it can take longer if your documents are unclear or if there is a backlog at your local office. You can use your old Social Security card while you wait — it is still valid.
Your new card will arrive by mail. Check it carefully to make sure the name is spelled correctly and your number is right. If something is wrong, call Social Security right away. Once you have the new card, you should update your name with your employer, bank, insurance company, and any other organization that has your Social Security number on file.
Changing your name after marriage or divorce
Marriage and divorce are the most common reasons for a name change. If you married, bring your marriage certificate. If you divorced, bring your divorce decree. These documents are your proof of the legal name change — you do not need a separate court order.
Some people keep their maiden name after marriage or take back their maiden name after divorce. Social Security does not care which name you choose — they only care that you have a legal document showing the change. If you are unsure whether your document counts as proof, call 1-800-772-1213 and describe it to them before you visit.
What to do if you have already changed your name but Social Security still shows the old one
If you changed your name years ago and never told Social Security, you can still update it now. Bring the same documents: your legal proof of the name change, citizenship or residency proof, and a photo ID. Social Security will not penalize you for the delay.
This matters because your earnings record may be split between your old name and new name, especially if you worked under both. Once you update Social Security, they will merge your records so all your earnings count toward your future benefits. If you are close to retirement age, contact Social Security as soon as you can so they have time to fix your record before you claim benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my Social Security card if I got married but kept my maiden name?
No. Your name on Social Security should match the name you use for work and taxes. If you kept your maiden name, your Social Security record is already correct. You only need to change it if you actually changed the name you go by legally.
What if I lost my marriage certificate or divorce decree?
Contact the vital records office or courthouse in the county where you were married or divorced. They can issue a certified copy. This usually costs $10 to $25 and takes one to two weeks by mail. Some counties offer rush service for an extra fee. Call ahead to ask what they need and how long it takes.
Can I change my name on Social Security if I do not have a photo ID?
Yes. Social Security accepts other documents if you do not have a driver's license or passport. These include a state ID card, school ID, employee ID, or military ID. Call 1-800-772-1213 and ask which documents they will take — it varies slightly by office.
How long does it take to get my new Social Security card in the mail?
Usually two to four weeks from the date you submit your request. During busy periods it can take longer. You can call Social Security after four weeks to check on it. Your old card is still valid while you wait, so you can give it to your employer or bank if they need it right away.
Will changing my name affect my Social Security benefits?
No. Your Social Security number stays the same, and all your earnings and benefits stay attached to it. The only thing that changes is the name printed on your card and in Social Security's records. If you are already receiving benefits, they will continue without interruption.