If you've recently gotten married, divorced, or legally changed your name for any reason, you'll need to update your Social Security card to reflect your new name. Your Social Security number will remain the same, but having a card with your current legal name is important for employment, tax purposes, and other official matters. Here's how to do it.
When to Change Your Name on Your Social Security Card
You should update your Social Security card whenever your legal name changes. Common reasons include:
- Marriage — taking your spouse's last name or hyphenating your name
- Divorce — reverting to a maiden name or a previous legal name
- Court order — a legal name change granted by a court for any reason
- Gender identity — updating your name as part of a gender transition
- Adoption — changing a child's name after adoption
It's important to update your Social Security card before updating other records like your driver's license, passport, or bank accounts. Many agencies require your Social Security records to be updated first before they will process a name change.
Documents Required for a Name Change
To change the name on your Social Security card, you'll need to provide:
- Completed Form SS-5 — the Application for a Social Security Card, available at any Social Security office or downloadable from ssa.gov
- Proof of legal name change — one of the following:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree (specifying the name change)
- Court order for a legal name change
- Certificate of naturalization showing your new name
- Proof of identity — a current, valid document such as:
- U.S. driver's license or state ID
- U.S. passport (current or expired within the last 12 months)
- Military ID
- Proof of citizenship (if not previously established) — U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport
All documents must be originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. The SSA will return your documents after processing.
How to Apply for a Name Change
Currently, name changes on Social Security cards cannot be done online. You must apply either by mail or in person at your local Social Security office.
By Mail
Complete Form SS-5, gather your original documents, and mail everything to your local Social Security office. Your documents will be returned to you by mail after processing. Keep in mind that mailing original documents carries some risk, so consider using a trackable mailing service.
In Person
Visit your local Social Security office with your completed Form SS-5 and all required documents. An SSA representative will review your application and documents on the spot. This is the preferred method because you can keep possession of your original documents and address any questions immediately.
Find your local Social Security office for address and hours.
How Long Does a Name Change Take?
After your application is processed, you should receive your updated Social Security card within 10 to 14 business days. The SSA will mail the card to the address on your application.
While waiting for your new card, you can still use your Social Security number for employment and other purposes. If an employer needs verification, they can use the SSA's verification services.
Name changes do not count toward the replacement card limits of 3 per year and 10 per lifetime, so you don't need to worry about using up your allotment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change my name with Social Security before updating my driver's license?
In most states, yes. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) typically requires that your Social Security records be updated before they will issue a new driver's license with your new name. Check with your state's DMV for specific requirements, but it's generally recommended to update Social Security first, then your driver's license, and then other documents.
Is there a fee to change the name on my Social Security card?
No. There is no fee to change the name on your Social Security card. The SSA provides this service at no cost. Be cautious of third-party websites that charge fees to process name change requests — they are not affiliated with the Social Security Administration.
Can I change my name on my Social Security card online?
No, name changes cannot currently be processed online. You must apply by mail or in person at a Social Security office. This is because the SSA requires original documentation to verify a legal name change, which cannot be submitted electronically.
Find Your Local Social Security Office
Ready to update your Social Security card? Find the closest office to you, including hours, directions, and contact information.