Many women choose to take their husband's name at marriage. A few men will take their new wife's name, and some couples use a new, hyphenated name. If you change your name after marriage, you'll need to notify a number of people and organizations of your new identify. You'll also need to speak with the Social Security Office to obtain a new Social Security card and make sure future earnings are credited to the proper account.
Step 1
Obtain a certified copy of your marriage license. This copy has a legal seal that verifies it is an official document. If you're a woman, the marriage license will show your new name. If you are a man who has changed his name at marriage, your state's license may not include a line for this name change. In this case, you'll need to go to court to officially change your name. The court will issue a document you can submit to the Social Security Office to show this name change.
Step 2
Complete an application for a Social Security card. You can download this application from the Internet or pick up a copy at a local Social Security office.
Step 3
Deliver a copy of your completed application and the certified copy of your marriage license or other proof of your name change to the Social Security Office. If you choose to mail these documents, send them via a method that allows you to track delivery.
Tips and Warnings
- Your new Social Security card will have the same number as your previous card along with your new name. The Social Security Office will return the marriage license or other proof of name change to you along with your new card.
Things You'll Need
- Copy of marriage license or other proof of name change
- Application for Social Security card
- Pen
