Changing Your Name

If you've recently married, or changed your name, you should remember to notify the Social Security Administration. We covered handling your name change with the Notary Commission in a recent previous post, but often forgotten is your Social Security Card. You need to make the change, even if your name is just hyphenated.

When you make the name change, you will receive a new card showing your new name, however your number will remain the same. It is very easy to do - all you need is a form SS-5, a certified copy of your marriage license, or if the name change was not due to marriage, whatever legal document reflects the name change. Remember, your proof must be either the original document, or a copy certified by the issuing agency. A photocopy or notarized copy will not be accepted. If you use your original document, it is recommended that you take the document and form to your local Social Security office, so that you have your documents returned right away. If you mail them, use certified copies. I mailed my documents, and received my card in about one week.

To print a copy of the Form SS-5, go to www.socialsecurity.gov