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.
Did you find this Information helpful?
Tags: my Social Security, my Social Security account, Social Security card, SSN
See CommentsAbout the Author
Jim Borland, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Communications
Jim Borland, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Communications
Comments
Comments are closed.
Nasrrudiyn A.
Can I get a chance new SS card for my 6 month daughter since her name has been changed on her birth certificate online?
A.C.
Hi, Nasrrudiyn. Thanks for your question. In order to change your child’s name on her Social Security card, you will need to present documents proving your identity, your daughter’s identity and citizenship status (if not already established), and evidence of your relationship to, or responsibility for your child. Also keep in mind the submitted documents must be originals. You can use birth certificates to prove your child’s age or citizenship but you cannot use it as proof of identity. See Learn What Documents You Need for more information. Under the heading, “Type of Card,” select “Corrected” for a list of the documents you need.
We offer the option to mail and bring the completed application with original or certified documents to your local Social Security office. We hope this helps.
Michael S.
How can I get an apostille seal for my benefits letter?
Lori
I have a Court order change of name, already have my new drivers license, need to get my ss card. Do I have to have my new ss card before I fill out new tax forms for payroll?
L.A.
Hi Lori. Thanks for your question. Yes, you should change your name with us (Social Security) before you fill out the new tax form for payroll. In order to change 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). We offer the option to mail your completed application with original or certified documents to your local Social Security office. Here you can find what documents you may need to make the name change. Or you can go to your local Social Security office to make the changes when the time comes. We hope this helps.
Kevin M.
Hello, Why can you except a Washington State Drivers license, (that anyone can get and won’t get you on a plane in a couple months because its not recognized) and you WON’T recognize a Global Entry Federal I.D. card that you can’t get get without a valid Passport, Fingerprints, facial recognition video and a Federal background check?
Just a thought…. maybe you need to update your process.
Thanks,
Marlenes I.
Ok I went to get my birth certificate and was not able to because my first name was different by one letter on my social Security card. Now will I have to change my social security card wit the correct spelling on my first name as my birth certificate and do this mean I will have to get a new social Security number?
Martha L.
I need to change both my name and my address
Karen C.
Very helpful information. Ordered well and clear. Thanks!
Kimberly B.
Hi, I am trying to change my last name on my social security card back to my born name. Currently I work in the Child Protection Unit in the County of Orange. I was divorced back in 1988. I can no longer obtain my divorce documents. My license has my Barnes name and my birth certificate. I do not know how I can do this with your office. Can someone please help me with this. I am trying to obtain my passport and this has stopped me in my tracks. I appreciate all your help in this matter.
Douglas D.
How do I go about changing the spelling of my grandsons name ?
Janet B.
I got married and have to change my name, tried to make an appointment and ask what all was necessary to bring when I got all the way up there. So I would have everything necessary with me. Great difficulty getting through to a representative.
L.A.
Hi Janet. Thanks for your question and congratulations on your marriage! In order to change 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.