Marriage name-change guide

How to update Social Security after marriage

Start with Social Security before changing many other records. SSA now uses a short online questionnaire to tell you whether you can complete the request online or need to finish at a local office.

Originally published January 16, 2026 · Reviewed July 10, 2026

Quick answer

Use the Social Security Administration’s official Change name with Social Security tool. You are requesting a replacement card, not a new Social Security number. Depending on your state and circumstances, you may complete the request online or start online and finish at an office.

1. Make sure your marriage document supports the name you want

A certified marriage certificate is commonly used as evidence of the legal name change. A decorative or commemorative marriage certificate may not be accepted. If the requested name cannot be derived from your marriage document, SSA may require a court order or other legal evidence.

2. Gather the documents SSA requests

Requirements depend on your citizenship, identity, and the age of the name-change event. SSA’s questionnaire provides the current list for your situation. Commonly requested evidence includes:

  • Your certified marriage certificate or other legal name-change document.
  • Current proof of identity, such as an unexpired driver’s license, state ID, or U.S. passport.
  • Citizenship or lawful immigration evidence when SSA’s records need it.
Use original or agency-certified documents. SSA does not accept ordinary photocopies or notarized copies when original/certified evidence is required. Confirm the current rule in the SSA workflow before mailing anything.

3. Follow SSA’s online or office workflow

  1. Open SSA’s official name-change page.
  2. Answer the eligibility questions.
  3. Complete the online request if offered, or start it online and schedule/visit the office SSA identifies.
  4. Keep confirmation details until your replacement card arrives.

Form SS-5 remains SSA’s Application for a Social Security Card, but the online workflow is the best starting point because it tells you which completion path applies.

4. Check the new record before moving on

SSA says a replacement card is generally mailed within 5–10 business days after completing the request. Your Social Security number stays the same. When the card arrives, check the spelling carefully and keep it secure.

Many state motor-vehicle agencies verify your updated name against SSA. Allow the agencies’ systems time to synchronize before a DMV visit, and check your state’s instructions rather than assuming a universal waiting period.

5. Continue through the rest of your checklist

After Social Security, typical updates include your driver’s license or state ID, employer payroll records, passport, banks, insurance, voter registration, and travel programs. The order and documentation can vary.

Want the forms and steps organized for you?

UpdateMyName packages organize federal and state name-change steps so you can work through them in the right sequence.

Start with Print at HomeCompare all packages

Frequently asked questions

Does changing my name change my Social Security number?

No. You are updating the name attached to your existing record and requesting a replacement card.

Can every newlywed complete the change online?

No. Online completion depends on SSA eligibility rules and participating jurisdictions. SSA’s questionnaire tells you whether you can finish online or must complete the request at an office.

Should I change my driver’s license first?

Usually Social Security comes first because state agencies may verify your name against SSA. Follow your state motor-vehicle agency’s current sequence and timing instructions.

Official sources

UpdateMyName.com is not a government agency or law firm. Government requirements change; confirm current instructions on the linked official websites.