How to change your name on your Social Security card after marriage

To change your name on your Social Security card after marriage, request a replacement card in your new name from Social Security. Some people can apply online; everyone else goes to a local office. Update Social Security before your driver's license if your state checks SSA records. Then update your passport.

Last checked Oct 14, 2026. Content reviewed against official .gov pages. How we check sources.

Can I change my Social Security name online after marriage?

What you do: Request a replacement Social Security card in your new name
ssa.govchecked Oct 14, 2026
Online or office: You may be able to do this online. If not, you'll need an appointment at a local Social Security office
ssa.govchecked Oct 14, 2026
States where newlyweds may finish online: Not confirmed yet
Check the official page linked below.
ssa.govchecked Oct 14, 2026
Wait after marriage: Not confirmed yet
Check the official page linked below.
ssa.govchecked Oct 14, 2026

What documents do I need for a Social Security name change after marriage?

Documents: Proof of identity
Proof of your new legal name and the name change event (for example a certified marriage certificate)
Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status, in some cases
Being re-checkedssa.govchecked Oct 14, 2026
Originals only?: Not confirmed yet
Check the official page linked below.
ssa.govchecked Oct 14, 2026

Form, fee and when the card arrives

Fee: Not confirmed yet
Check the official page linked below.
ssa.govchecked Oct 14, 2026
Paper form: Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card), if you cannot use the online serviceBeing re-checked
ssa.govchecked Oct 14, 2026
Form link: Open the official page (ssa.gov)Being re-checked
ssa.govchecked Oct 14, 2026
Card arrives: By mail in 5 to 10 business days after SSA completes the request
ssa.govchecked Oct 14, 2026
Phone: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)Being re-checked
ssa.govchecked Oct 14, 2026

What is the next step after Social Security?

Update your state driver's license or ID, then your passport.

Common questions

Does it cost anything to change my name with Social Security after marriage?

Not confirmed yet.

The Social Security fee is not confirmed yet on this site. Check the official Social Security name-change page before you go.

Source: ssa.gov

How long should I wait after the wedding to change my Social Security card?

Not confirmed yet.

Social Security's wait guidance after marriage is not confirmed yet on this site. Check the current advice on ssa.gov before you apply.

Source: ssa.gov

Can I change my Social Security name online after marriage?

Social Security says: you may be able to do this online. If not, you'll need an appointment at a local Social Security office. Which states allow a fully online change after marriage is not confirmed yet on this site.

How do I change the name on my Social Security card?

Request a replacement Social Security card in your new name. You may be able to do this online. If not, you'll need an appointment at a local Social Security office.

Source: ssa.gov

How long does it take to change name with SSA after marriage?

Social Security says your card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days after SSA completes the request.

Source: ssa.gov

Does your Social Security card have to match your married name?

If you change your name, several state license offices check it against Social Security: California DMV ("DMV checks your new name with Social Security first"); New York State DMV ("Your new DMV name must exactly match your Social Security card").

How many times can you change your name with Social Security?

Not confirmed yet.

Please check ssa.gov for the current answer.

Source: ssa.gov

Do I need my marriage license to change my name at Social Security?

Not confirmed yet.

Please check ssa.gov for the current answer.

Source: ssa.gov

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