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How do I change or correct my name on my Social Security number card?

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Submitting Documents to Social Security: Please do not mail original primary documents that should be kept secure in your possession, such as driver’s licenses, passports, or immigration documents. If you prefer, you may choose to mail us secondary evidence of identity and less sensitive material. We also offer additional options for submitting documents, including Express Interviews by appointment, and Drop Boxes, where available. Please call your local Social Security office if you would like to drop off your evidence or if you think you may qualify for an in-person appointment. Please note that appointments may not be immediately available, depending on local health and safety conditions and staffing.

If you legally change your name because of marriage, divorce, court order or any other reason, you must tell Social Security so you can get a corrected card. You cannot apply for a corrected card online. The same applies once you receive the I-766 card, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). See Defining the legal Name for an SSN.

To get a corrected Social Security card, you will need to:

  • Show the required documents. You will need proof of your identity. Sometimes you also may need to prove your current U.S. citizenship or lawful noncitizen status. See Learn What Documents You Need for more information. Under the heading, “Type of Card,” select “Corrected” for a list of the documents you need.

Note: If you are a U.S. Citizen, applying for a replacement SSN card, and choose to mail your application to your local office, you may use original or certified copies of secondary proofs of identity such as:

  • A marriage document showing your name and either date of birth or age (only when submitted to support the application for a name change)
  • A U.S. government employee identification card.
  • A non-government employee identity card/badge card showing your name and either a photograph or your date of birth.
  • A health insurance card or U.S. Medicaid card showing your name and one of the following:
    • Date of birth.
    • A photograph.
  • A school identity card
  • A school record or transcript (for the current school year) showing your name and one of the following:
    • Date of birth.
    • A photograph.
  • A life insurance policy showing your name and age or date of birth.
  • Note: U.S. Citizens applying for a replacement SSN card are not required to submit original primary evidence (e.g. driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport), for mailed applications.

    • For complete instructions, please go to our Social Security Number and Card page. 
    For more information, read our pamphlet, Your Social Security Number and Card.

    Please read our Coronavirus (COVID-19) information page to learn about changes to Social Security number card requests during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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