SSA (Social Security Administration) in the United States makes many procedures related to the Social Security number very accessible. There is one process that is key, and it is quite simple.
The Administration explains that if you legally change your name—for example, when you get married, divorced, or by court order—you must request a new card that reflects your updated name. The card keeps your number, but with the new name, at no cost and with no changes to your benefits.
This is what you must do, according to SSA, to change your name on the Social Security card
Visit the replacement page, answer a few questions, and you'll be told whether you can proceed online or need to go to an office or Card Center Social Security. If you can't do it online, you must complete the SS-5 form and either go in person or send the required documentation.
You need proof of identity (passport or driver's license) and proof of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or naturalization). Additionally, you may be asked for proof of citizenship if you haven't provided it before. The documents must be original or certified; photocopies or notarized copies are not accepted.
In divorce cases, SSA requires proof of the dissolution of the marriage (divorce decree or court order) and evidence of the new name. If more than two years have passed since the change, they may also request additional documents such as your birth certificate or a previous card with that name.
How long does it take for the new card to arrive?
After you submit everything, the new card usually arrives by mail in about ten business days. It is advisable to do this as soon as possible after events like marriage or divorce. Keeping your card and name updated with SSA prevents problems when reporting taxes, receiving benefits, or processing documents such as a driver's license.
Additionally, SSA has improved the digital process. Now, many procedures, including name changes, can be started online. For major changes, such as name or immigration status, you may have to finish the process in person, but starting from home already speeds everything up.
Situations in which it is convenient for you to change or correct your name
It is convenient to do this procedure if you get married and take your partner's last name or if you get divorced and decide to return to your previous name. Also, if you obtain a court order to change your name for another reason. Or if your name on documents (license, passport, payroll) doesn't match the one that appears with SSA.
In all these cases, doing the procedure offers clear advantages: you will avoid discrepancies when filing taxes, receiving benefits, or opening accounts. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your Social Security number is correctly linked to your legal name.
SSA doesn't charge for this procedure. You can contact them at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 7 PM. You can also start online using your "My Social Security" account to save time and, in many cases, you won't need to go to an office.