Need to Change Your Name on Your Social Security Card?
Reading Time: 2 MinutesLast Updated: November 3, 2023
Are you changing your name? If so, let Social Security know so we can update your information, send you a corrected card, and make sure you get the benefits you’ve earned.
To change your name on your card, you must show us documents proving your legal name change and identity. If you are a U.S. citizen, you also must show us a document proving your U.S. citizenship, if it is not already in our records. You must present original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them. We can’t accept photocopies or notarized copies.
To prove your legal name change, you must show one of the following documents:
- Marriage document.
- Divorce decree.
- Certificate of naturalization showing a new name.
- Court order for a name change.
To prove your identity, you must show an unexpired document showing your name, identifying information, and photograph, such as one of the following:
- U.S. driver’s license.
- State-issued non-driver’s identification card.
- U.S. passport.
If you don’t have one of those documents available, we may be able to accept your:
- Employer identification card.
- School identification card.
- Health insurance card.
- U.S. military identification card.
To prove your U.S. citizenship, you must show one of the following documents:
- U.S. birth certificate.
- U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
- U.S. passport (unexpired).
- Certificate of Naturalization.
- Certificate of Citizenship.
Whatever your reason for your name change, Social Security is here to help you with the new… you! Fill out the form online and follow the instructions to ensure your Social Security card is delivered in a timely manner. You can also locate your local field office so you can apply for your updated card and show your required documents in person.
For complete instructions, visit our Social Security Number and Card page, which includes information for non-citizens. And remember, if you simply need to replace a lost Social Security card, but don’t need to change your name, you can — in most states — request your replacement card online using your personal my Social Security account.
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Tags: my Social Security, my Social Security account, Social Security card, SSN
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Jim Borland, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Communications
Jim Borland, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Communications
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larry B.
My name on my social security card and driver’s license are different from my birth certificate. When applying for both of these documents in the late 1960’s you weren’t required to put your given name. I used by “nickname” Larry instead of given name Lawrence. in order to get a passport I am required to show these documents which do not march my birth certificate. I would like to correct SS card with correct name in order to get NYS drivers license corrected.
A.C.
Hi, Larry. In order to change or correct your name on your Social Security card, you must show us a document that proves your legal name change. If the document you provide as evidence of a legal name change does not give us enough information to identify you in our records, you must show us an identity document in your old name (as shown in our records), and another identity document with your new name. We prefer a government issued document with your picture, as proof of identity. Any document you submit, must be an original or certified copy, current (not expired) and show your name, and other identifying information (date of birth or age). We offer the option to mail your completed application with original or certified documents to your local Social Security office or nearest Card Center in your area. We hope this helps!
Blaine K.
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Donna M.
I went to the Social Security office in Knoxville several years ago to get my name changed on my card. When I received my new card it was not the name I had requested. My health did not allow me to return to the office so I just forgot about it. Since that time I have had collection agencies call me, been accused of writing bad checks and received mail from doctors I had never seen. All this is because the name, middle initial and last name are very common so I was requesting my maiden name in place of my middle name to alleviate this problem. I would like my name changed to the name I used on this correspondence.
Donna L.
I went to the Social Security office in Knoxville several years ago to get my name changed on my card. When I received my new card it was not the name I had requested. My health did not allow me to return to the office so I just forgot about it. Since that time I have had collection agencies call me, been accused of writing bad checks and received mail from doctors I had never seen. All this is because the name, middle initial and last name are very common so I was requesting my maiden name in place of my middle name to alleviate this problem.
Patricia M.
I just applied for SSI benefits as I just turned 62. I noticed on my ‘record’ that it had my previous name and address, but when I reviewed my application, all was current. Why does my record have old information? What do I need to do to correct it? Can I do this online? Or, is it possible that this current application automatically change my former name and address? Thanks.
Angela D.
My driver’s license expires 7/20/19. I need to change my SS card to my married name before I can renew my license. I have everything except my birth certificate (current license, marriage certificate). Can i still get my name changed on my SS card? I need to do this tomorrow, otherwise, my ID will expire. Nevada will not even give me an ID card until I update my SS Card.
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danielle g.
I need to change my last name do I need to make an appointment since I need to show passport and marriage license? Nervous to send those documents in the mail.
thank you Danielle Glassberg
A.C.
Hi, Danielle. Generally, appointments are not needed to make changes for Social Security cards. Most offices do offer walk-in appointments however, these appointments are on a first come, first serve basis. To find your local office, visit here. Thanks!
Laurie L.
I sent my form and my marriage license to SS office in Ann Arbor, Mi a while ago and was wondering how long it takes to get my new card.
A.C.
Hi, Laurie. Thanks for your question. For your security, we do not have access to private information in this venue. Typically, after we receive your application and verify your documents, you should receive your Social Security card by mail within 10 business days. To follow up on your application for a Social Security replacement card, you may have to return to the office where you filed your application. On your receipt there should be a local telephone number for you to call and speak to someone about the status of your card. If you need the address to your local office, go here. We hope this helps.