Choose the name-change task

SSA needs to know when your legal name changes through marriage, divorce, a court order or another qualifying event. Correcting an error in its name record also uses the name-correction route. Replacing an unchanged lost card is a separate request.

Use one request that accurately describes the change. A preferred name used socially is not necessarily the legal name established by the documents SSA evaluates.

Follow the questions for your circumstances

The official name-change page starts the card-service questions. SSA's FAQ explains that some people can complete a corrected-card request through a personal my Social Security account, while others can start online and finish with an evidence appointment.

Availability depends on the person and the supported service. Do not assume that a friend's online experience applies to you. If you cannot use the online process, ask SSA about Form SS-5 and the evidence review needed at an office or Card Center.

Prepare proof of the event and identity

A marriage document, divorce decree, court order or naturalization certificate showing a new name can be relevant. The document must support the requested legal change. SSA also needs to establish that the old and new name refer to the same person.

A name-change document is not always enough on its own. SSA's form instructions describe situations requiring additional identity evidence, including an older change or a document with insufficient identifying information. Use its current selector rather than relying on a universal checklist.

Check other evidence requirements

SSA may also need citizenship or lawful immigration-status evidence. Select the appropriate citizenship category in its document guidance and use originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Ordinary photocopies and notarized copies do not replace those records.

For adoption-related changes, the child's parent information and citizenship evidence can create additional issues. Use the adoption guide and explain the full change to SSA rather than treating it as an ordinary adult name update.

Check the corrected record and card

If SSA issues a corrected card, it mails the card after completing the required review. Check the name when it arrives. A record update does not always produce a card: SSA explains special rules for a person assigned a nonwork SSN who does not have DHS work authorization. Ask SSA which record-update and card-issuance rules apply rather than assuming that a name correction guarantees a new card.

If you work, SSA says to tell your employer about the name change as well. Keeping the name consistent helps avoid problems matching reported wages with your SSA record. This directory cannot perform that update or receive the supporting documents.

Common questions

Do marriage and divorce need separate SSA applications?

They are different legal events but use the same name-change task. The evidence must establish the particular change you are requesting.

Can everyone change their name entirely online?

No. Follow SSA's questions for your circumstances. You may need an appointment to present evidence even if the request begins online.

Related guides

Official sources

Source pages reviewed November 2, 2026. How this guidance is reviewed. Guidance and eligibility can change. Follow the live official service instructions for your circumstances.