What you need to do to change your name on your Social Security card

To change the name on your Social Security card, 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 your identity. The Social Security Administration does not charge a fee for this service. The process typically takes two to four weeks, though it can vary depending on how busy your local office is and whether your documents need further review.

You will need to appear in person at a Social Security office — you cannot do this by mail or online. Bring your original documents or certified copies; the office will not accept photocopies for most documents. Once approved, you will receive your new card in the mail.

Key Takeaways

  • You must complete Form SS-5 in person at a Social Security office and bring proof of your legal name change plus a photo ID.
  • Legal name change proof includes a court order, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or adoption papers — the document must show your old name and new name.
  • The Social Security Administration does not charge a fee for a name change on your card.
  • Your new card arrives by mail within two to four weeks in most cases.
  • You do not need to change your Social Security number when you change your name.

Documents you must bring to the Social Security office

Bring three types of documents: proof of your legal name change, proof of your identity, and proof of your age. For the name change, bring the original court order, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or adoption papers that shows both your old name and your new name. If you have a certified copy instead of the original, that works — but the office will not accept a photocopy.

For identity proof, bring a current photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a birth certificate and a bank statement with your name on it. For age proof, bring your birth certificate or passport. If you were born outside the United States, bring your birth certificate and your passport or visa.

If someone else is explore on behalf of a minor or an adult who cannot go to the office, that person must bring a power of attorney document or guardianship papers, plus their own photo ID.

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

Visit ssa.gov/locator to find the office nearest you. Enter your city and state or zip code, and the website will show you the address, phone number, and hours. Many offices now require appointments rather than accepting walk-ins, so call ahead or check the office's page on the Social Security website to see if you need to book a time slot.

You can make an appointment by phone at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for people who are deaf or hard of hearing). Have your Social Security number ready when you call. Wait times to reach someone can be long, especially early in the week and early in the month. If you cannot reach someone by phone, many local offices let you book appointments online through your my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount.

What happens at your appointment

Bring all your documents in originals or certified copies. The Social Security office staff will review your documents to confirm your legal name change and verify your identity. They will ask you to complete Form SS-5 if you have not already done so — you can fill it out at home and bring it, or fill it out at the office. The form asks for your current name, your new name, your date of birth, and your Social Security number.

The staff will take your photo at the office for your new card. The photo will be used on your replacement card. Once everything is approved, you will be told when to expect your new card in the mail. In most cases, it arrives within two to four weeks. If you need your card urgently, ask the office whether expedited processing is available in your area — some offices offer it, but it is not standard everywhere.

Name changes due to marriage, divorce, or court order

If you changed your name because you got married, bring your original marriage certificate or a certified copy. The certificate must show both your maiden name and your married name. If you changed your name because of a divorce, bring your original divorce decree or a certified copy. The decree must show your former name and your new name.

If you changed your name by court order (for any reason other than marriage or divorce), bring the original court order or a certified copy. The order must be signed by a judge and must show both your old name and your new name. Some states issue a separate "name change certificate" — if yours did, bring that instead of the court order.

What to do if your documents are from another country

If your legal name change document was issued outside the United States, bring the original or a certified copy. The Social Security Administration will accept documents from other countries, but they must be official documents issued by a government authority. If the document is not in English, bring an official English translation along with the original. A certified translator or the government office that issued the document can provide this translation.

If you were born outside the United States and are changing your name, you may also need to bring your passport, visa, or travel document to prove your identity and immigration status. Ask your local Social Security office what documents they need before your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my Social Security number when I change my name?

No. Your Social Security number stays the same. You only need to update the name associated with that number. Changing your number is a separate process that the Social Security Administration only does in cases of identity theft or harassment.

What if I lost my marriage certificate or divorce papers?

Contact the court or vital records office in the county or state where you were married or divorced. They can issue a certified copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree for a small fee. This usually takes one to two weeks. Some states let you order online; others require you to mail in a form.

Can I change my name on my Social Security card if I do not have a birth certificate?

Yes, but you will need to bring other documents that prove your age and identity. Acceptable alternatives include a passport, driver's license, state ID, or school records. Call your local Social Security office before your appointment to ask which documents they will accept in place of a birth certificate.

How long does it take to get my new card after my appointment?

Most new cards arrive within two to four weeks. The time varies depending on how busy the Social Security office is and whether your documents need additional review. You can check the status of your card by calling 1-800-772-1213 or logging into your my Social Security account online.

What if I need my new card before it arrives in the mail?

Ask the Social Security office at your appointment whether they can issue a temporary document or expedited card. Not all offices offer this, but some do. If expedited service is not available, you may be able to use a letter from the Social Security Administration that confirms your name change while you wait for your card.