What you need to do to change your name with Social Security
To change your name on your Social Security record, you submit Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) to your local Social Security office, along with proof of your legal name change and proof of identity. Social Security does not change your name on their own — you must request it. The process takes about two weeks once the office receives your completed form and documents.
You will need the original or certified copy of the document that shows your legal name change. This is usually a court order (from a divorce, adoption, or name change petition), a marriage certificate, or a divorce decree. You will also need to show your current identity — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Social Security will not accept a photocopy of your name-change document unless it is certified by the court or issuing agency.
You can start the process in person at your local Social Security office, by mail, or in some areas by appointment through their online portal. Going in person is fastest because staff can tell you right away if your documents are acceptable. If you mail your form, keep copies of everything you send and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery.
Key Takeaways
- You must submit Form SS-5 with a certified copy of your legal name-change document (court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree) and a current photo ID.
- Social Security processes name changes in about two weeks, but only after they receive your complete process with acceptable documents.
- Going to your local Social Security office in person is the fastest way because staff can confirm your documents are correct before you leave.
- After your name changes with Social Security, you will receive a new Social Security card in the mail within two weeks.
- You should also update your name with Medicare, your bank, your employer, and the IRS separately — Social Security does not notify these agencies for you.
What documents count as proof of a legal name change
Social Security accepts only official documents that show a court ordered your name change or that a legal event (marriage, divorce, adoption) changed your name. A certified copy means the court clerk or government office stamped it and signed it to confirm it is a true copy of the original. A photocopy you made yourself will not work.
Common documents that work include a final divorce decree showing your new name, a marriage certificate issued by the county clerk, an adoption decree, or a court order from a name-change petition. If you changed your name through marriage or divorce, the document must be the official one issued by the court or vital records office, not a letter or email confirmation. Some states issue a separate "certified name change order" — that also works.
If your document is from another country, you will need an English translation certified by a translator, plus the original. Bring both to your Social Security office appointment.
How to get your documents ready before you go
Start by gathering your legal name-change document and your current photo ID. If you do not have the original or certified copy of your name-change document, contact the court or vital records office that issued it and request a certified copy. This usually costs between $10 and $25 and takes one to two weeks by mail. Some courts and vital records offices now offer online ordering.
Make two copies of each document — one to keep for your records and one to submit. Write your Social Security number on the back of each copy in case the pages get separated. Fill out Form SS-5 completely before you go to the office. You can read it from ssa.gov or pick up a copy at your local Social Security office.
If you have changed your name more than once, bring documents for each change in order. For example, if you changed your name through marriage and then through a court petition, bring both the marriage certificate and the court order.
Where to submit your form and what to expect
You can submit your form and documents in three ways: in person at your local Social Security office, by mail to the address on Form SS-5, or by appointment through ssa.gov if your area offers online scheduling. To find your local office, go to ssa.gov, click "Locations," and enter your zip code.
If you go in person, bring the original documents plus two copies of each. Staff will review them on the spot and tell you if anything is missing. If everything is correct, they will keep your documents and give you a receipt. If something is wrong, they will tell you what to fix before they can process your request.
If you mail your form, use certified mail with return receipt so you have proof the office received it. Keep copies of everything you send. The office will contact you by phone or mail if they need more information. Processing takes about two weeks from the day they receive your complete process.
When you will receive your new Social Security card
After your name change is approved, Social Security will mail your new card to the address on file. This usually takes one to two weeks. Your new card will have the same Social Security number but with your updated name printed on it.
While you wait, your old card is still valid for work and benefits. You do not need to do anything with it — you can keep it or destroy it. Your Social Security number itself does not change, only the name printed on the card.
What to do after your name changes with Social Security
Changing your name with Social Security is only the first step. You will also need to update your name with other agencies and organizations separately, because they do not automatically receive the update from Social Security.
Contact your employer's payroll department and give them your new name and your Social Security card. Update your name with the IRS by filing Form 8822-B (Change of Address). If you receive Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE or go to Medicare.gov to update your name. Contact your bank, insurance company, and any other financial institutions where you have accounts. If you have a driver's license or state ID, go to your state's DMV to update your name there as well.
Keep a copy of your new Social Security card and your name-change document in a safe place. You may need to show them when you update your name elsewhere.
What happens if Social Security rejects your documents
Social Security may reject your documents if they are not certified, if they do not clearly show your legal name change, or if they are too old or damaged to read. If this happens, the office will send you a letter explaining what is wrong and what you need to do.
The most common reason for rejection is submitting a photocopy instead of a certified copy. If this happens, contact the court or vital records office that issued the original and request a certified copy. It usually costs $10 to $25 and takes one to two weeks. Once you have it, you can resubmit your form and documents.
If your document is from another country and you do not have an English translation, you will need to hire a certified translator. Some Social Security offices can recommend translators in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my name with Social Security if I only changed it legally in one state?
Yes. Social Security is a federal program, and your record is kept at the national level, not by state. Even if you changed your name through a court in one state, you still need to update your Social Security record. Your name change is legal everywhere once you have the court order, but Social Security will not know about it unless you tell them.
Can I change my name with Social Security by phone or online?
No. Social Security requires you to submit Form SS-5 in person or by mail, along with original or certified documents. You cannot complete this process over the phone or through their website. You can call 1-800-772-1213 to ask questions or to find your local office, but you must submit the actual form and documents in person or by mail.
What if I lost my original name-change document?
Contact the court or vital records office that issued it and request a certified copy. Tell them you lost the original and need a replacement. Most courts and vital records offices will issue a certified copy for a small fee (usually $10 to $25) and mail it to you within one to two weeks. Some now offer online ordering and faster service.
How long does it take to get my new Social Security card after my name changes?
Social Security processes your name change in about two weeks from the day they receive your complete process. Your new card is mailed after that and usually arrives within one to two weeks. In total, expect three to four weeks from the day you submit your form to the day you receive your new card in the mail.
Will my Social Security number change when I change my name?
No. Your Social Security number stays the same for your entire life. Only the name printed on your card changes. You do not need a new number, and Social Security will not issue one. Your number is tied to your work history and benefits, so it must remain the same.