This notice from the United States Social Security is urgent and you can't ignore it. If you have just changed your life, you must update your information. If you don't do it, you could have serious problems with the IRS, delays in refunds, or rejected returns.
Social Security asks citizens who get married to report their name or marital status change as soon as it happens. This change is key to keeping your personal records in order, avoiding mistakes, and preventing tax complications with the IRS, the federal agency in charge of taxes.
Clear message from the United States SSA: If you get married, do this now
If you changed your name due to marriage, you can update it by filling out the SS-5 form. You can submit it in person at a local SSA office or by mail. You will need the original marriage certificate or a certified copy, and a valid ID such as a passport or driver's license.
If you experienced marriage in one of the 21 participating states, you could complete part of the process online from your my Social Security account, without physically going to any office. You will be able to start the application, verify your information, and, if necessary, schedule an in-person appointment using the "self-scheduling" option.
Why you need to update this information: The IRS responds
You should know that you have to wait at least 30 days after marriage before requesting the card with the new name. This gives the state time to update their records and avoid setbacks.
The IRS uses information from the SSA to verify the match between your name and your Social Security Number (SSN). If your information doesn't match, your return could be rejected or your refund delayed. On the official IRS page, it is clearly warned that if your name changed, you must notify the SSA before filing your return.
You don't need to send an extra form to the IRS. Once you update your name with the SSA and file your next return using the new name, the IRS will automatically update their records. Just make sure your name matches exactly with the one on your new Social Security card.
You could have problems with these procedures
If you don't update this information, you could face several consequences. Your return could be rejected or delayed, your refund could be postponed, and you could receive notifications or requirements from the IRS due to inconsistencies. In addition, you could have problems with employment procedures, W-2 or 1099 forms, and other official documents.
The SSA also warns about the importance of reporting personal changes such as marriage, since these can affect benefits such as retirement, widowhood, disability, or SSI. If you don't report the changes on time, you could receive incorrect payments or even have to return money to SSA.