In certain life circumstances, you may need to change your name as it appears on your Social Security card. This can be due to marriage, divorce, or other legal circumstances.
Changing your name on your Social Security card is relatively straightforward, but it does require some paperwork and a visit to your local Social Security office. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Once you have gathered the necessary documents and completed the application form, you can submit it in person at your local Social Security office. You may also be able to apply online or by mail, but in-person applications are typically processed more quickly.
Changing Name on Social Security Card
Changing your name on your Social Security card is a relatively straightforward process. Here are 6 important points to keep in mind:
- Gather documents.
- Complete application form.
- Visit local Social Security office.
- Provide identity and marriage/divorce proof.
- Pay a small fee (if applicable).
- Receive new Social Security card.
By following these steps, you can easily and quickly change your name on your Social Security card.
Gather Documents
The first step in changing your name on your Social Security card is to gather the necessary documents. These documents will vary depending on your circumstances, but generally include:
- Proof of identity: This can be a driver's license, passport, or other government-issued ID.
- Proof of citizenship or lawful status: This can be a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or other document that proves your legal status in the United States.
- Proof of name change: If you are changing your name due to marriage, you will need a copy of your marriage certificate. If you are changing your name for any other reason, you will need a court order or other legal document that authorizes the name change.
- Social Security card: You will need to bring your current Social Security card with you when you apply for a new one.
In addition to these basic documents, you may also need to provide additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances. For example, if you are changing your name due to divorce, you may need to provide a copy of your divorce decree.
Complete Application Form
Once you have gathered the necessary documents, you will need to complete an application form to request a name change on your Social Security card. This form is called the "Application for a Social Security Card" (Form SS-5).
- Fill out the form accurately and completely: Make sure to provide all of the information requested on the form, including your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and reason for changing your name.
- Sign and date the form: You must sign and date the form in order for it to be valid.
- Attach copies of your supporting documents: You will need to attach copies of your proof of identity, proof of citizenship or lawful status, proof of name change, and Social Security card to your application form.
- Submit the form in person or by mail: You can submit your application form in person at your local Social Security office or by mail. If you are submitting your application by mail, you should send it to the Social Security Administration's central processing center in Baltimore, Maryland.
Once you have submitted your application form and supporting documents, the Social Security Administration will review your request and issue you a new Social Security card with your new name.
Visit Local Social Security Office
Once you have gathered the necessary documents and completed the application form, you can submit it in person at your local Social Security office. This is typically the quickest and easiest way to change your name on your Social Security card.
To find your local Social Security office, you can use the Social Security Administration's office locator tool. You will need to provide your zip code or city and state.
When you visit your local Social Security office, you will need to bring the following items with you:
- Your completed application form (Form SS-5)
- Original and copies of your supporting documents (proof of identity, proof of citizenship or lawful status, proof of name change, and Social Security card)
- A check or money order for the application fee (if applicable)
Once you arrive at the Social Security office, you will need to take a number and wait to be called. When your number is called, you will meet with a Social Security representative who will review your application and supporting documents.
If your application is approved, you will be issued a new Social Security card with your new name. The Social Security representative will also tell you when you can expect to receive your new card in the mail.
Provide Identity and Marriage/Divorce Proof
When you apply for a name change on your Social Security card, you will need to provide proof of your identity and, if applicable, proof of your marriage or divorce.
- Proof of identity: This can be a driver's license, passport, or other government-issued ID. The ID must be current and have your photo on it.
- Proof of marriage: If you are changing your name due to marriage, you will need to provide a copy of your marriage certificate. The marriage certificate must be issued by a government agency or a religious organization that is authorized to perform marriages.
- Proof of divorce: If you are changing your name due to divorce, you will need to provide a copy of your divorce decree. The divorce decree must be issued by a court of law.
- Other acceptable forms of identification: If you do not have a driver's license, passport, or other government-issued ID, you may be able to use other forms of identification, such as a school ID, a work ID, or a military ID. You may also be able to use a birth certificate or a baptismal certificate.
If you are unable to provide original documents, you may be able to submit certified copies. Certified copies are copies of documents that have been verified by a notary public or other authorized official.
Pay a Small Fee (if applicable)
In most cases, there is no fee to change your name on your Social Security card. However, there is a $25 fee if you need to replace your Social Security card because it was lost, stolen, or damaged.
- Pay the fee in person: If you are applying for a name change in person at a Social Security office, you can pay the fee with cash, check, or money order.
- Pay the fee by mail: If you are applying for a name change by mail, you must include a check or money order for $25 with your application form. Make the check or money order payable to the "Social Security Administration."
- Fee waivers: In some cases, you may be able to get a fee waiver. For example, you may be eligible for a fee waiver if you are receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
- Contact the Social Security Administration for more information: If you have any questions about the fee, you can contact the Social Security Administration by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Once you have paid the fee (if applicable), your application will be processed and you will be issued a new Social Security card with your new name.
Receive New Social Security Card
Once your application for a name change has been processed, you will be issued a new Social Security card with your new name. The Social Security Administration will mail your new card to the address you provided on your application form.
- Processing time: It typically takes 10 to 14 days to receive your new Social Security card in the mail. However, it may take longer if there is a problem with your application or if the Social Security Administration is experiencing high volumes of requests.
- Check the status of your application: You can check the status of your application online or by calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.
- Notify other agencies and organizations: Once you receive your new Social Security card, you should notify other agencies and organizations of your name change. This includes your employer, your bank, your credit card companies, and your insurance companies.
- Keep your old Social Security card: You should keep your old Social Security card in a safe place. This is because you may need it for certain purposes, such as proving your identity or applying for government benefits.
By following these steps, you can easily and quickly change your name on your Social Security card.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about changing your name on your Social Security card:
Question 1: How long does it take to change my name on my Social Security card?
Answer 1: It typically takes 10 to 14 days to receive your new Social Security card in the mail. However, it may take longer if there is a problem with your application or if the Social Security Administration is experiencing high volumes of requests.
Question 2: How much does it cost to change my name on my Social Security card?
Answer 2: In most cases, there is no fee to change your name on your Social Security card. However, there is a $25 fee if you need to replace your Social Security card because it was lost, stolen, or damaged.
Question 3: What documents do I need to provide to change my name on my Social Security card?
Answer 3: You will need to provide proof of your identity, proof of citizenship or lawful status, proof of your name change, and your Social Security card.
Question 4: Can I change my name on my Social Security card online?
Answer 4: No, you cannot change your name on your Social Security card online. You must apply in person at a Social Security office or by mail.
Question 5: What should I do after I receive my new Social Security card?
Answer 5: Once you receive your new Social Security card, you should notify other agencies and organizations of your name change. This includes your employer, your bank, your credit card companies, and your insurance companies.
Question 6: What should I do if I have lost my Social Security card?
Answer 6: If you have lost your Social Security card, you can apply for a replacement card at a Social Security office or by mail. You will need to provide proof of your identity and citizenship or lawful status.
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If you have any other questions about changing your name on your Social Security card, you can contact the Social Security Administration by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Once you have changed your name on your Social Security card, you may also want to consider updating your name on other important documents, such as your driver's license, passport, and birth certificate.
Tips
Here are a few tips to make the process of changing your name on your Social Security card as smooth as possible:
Tip 1: Gather all of your documents in advance.
Before you visit a Social Security office or mail in your application, make sure you have all of the required documents. This will help to speed up the process.
Tip 2: Apply in person if possible.
Applying for a name change in person at a Social Security office is typically faster than applying by mail. If you apply in person, you can also get your new Social Security card on the same day.
Tip 3: Notify other agencies and organizations of your name change.
Once you receive your new Social Security card, you should notify other agencies and organizations of your name change. This includes your employer, your bank, your credit card companies, and your insurance companies.
Tip 4: Keep your old Social Security card in a safe place.
You should keep your old Social Security card in a safe place. This is because you may need it for certain purposes, such as proving your identity or applying for government benefits.
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By following these tips, you can easily and quickly change your name on your Social Security card.
Changing your name on your Social Security card is a relatively simple process. However, it is important to make sure that you have all of the required documents and that you follow the correct procedures.
Conclusion
Changing your name on your Social Security card is a relatively simple process, but it does require some paperwork and a visit to your local Social Security office. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily and quickly change your name on your Social Security card.
Here are the main points to remember:
- Gather the necessary documents, including proof of identity, proof of citizenship or lawful status, proof of your name change, and your Social Security card.
- Complete the application form (Form SS-5) and submit it in person at a Social Security office or by mail.
- Pay a small fee (if applicable) for a replacement Social Security card.
- Receive your new Social Security card in the mail within 10 to 14 days.
- Notify other agencies and organizations of your name change.
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By following these steps, you can easily and quickly change your name on your Social Security card. If you have any questions, you can contact the Social Security Administration by calling 1-800-772-1213.