A 2001 Harvard study reported that 83 percent of college-educated women took on their husband's surname after marriage, which is a noticeable increase compared with studies one and two decades prior. If you are one the growing number of brides changing your name, it is important that you apply for a Social Security card stating your new moniker. Doing so will help you update other pertinent identification such as your driver's license and passport. You will also need it in order to file income taxes using your new name.
Step 1
Complete an application for a Social Security card (Form SS-5), which you can download and print from the U.S. Social Security Administration website or obtain by visiting your Social Security office. Print your information legibly on the form using a black or blue ink pen.
Step 2
Provide proof of your legal name change, such as your marriage license or marriage certificate.
Step 3
Offer proof of your citizenship or legal immigration status, such as your birth certificate, passport or U.S. immigration documents and foreign passport.
Step 4
Display proof of your identity. You can use a driver's license issued in any U.S. state, a state-issued identification card or a U.S. passport.
Step 5
Take the items to your Social Security office or mail them to the office. Your new Social Security card will be mailed to you within two to four weeks.
Tips and Warnings
- Any documents you take in or mail to the Social Security office must be originals or certified copies. Photocopies, even those that are notarized, will not be accepted.
Things You'll Need
- Application for a Social Security card (Form SS-5)
- Marriage license or marriage certificate
- Birth certificate, passport or U.S. immigration documents and foreign passport
- Driver's license, state-issued ID or passport
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