How Do I Report a Change of Address or Name to Social Security?

Marriage, Divorce, Relocation, and Birth of a Child Explained

Keeping your information up to date with the Social Security Administration (SSA) is more important than many people realize. Your name, address, and family details are directly tied to your Social Security number (SSN), benefits, tax records, and identity verification. Failing to report changes promptly can lead to delayed benefits, tax issues, or problems proving your identity.

This article explains when and how to report changes to Social Security, focusing on the most common life events: marriage, divorce, relocation (change of address), and the birth of a child. It also outlines what documents you need, how long updates take, and common mistakes to avoid.

Why It’s Important to Update Social Security Records

Social Security uses your personal information to:

• Track your earnings history

• Calculate retirement, disability, and survivor benefits

• Issue benefit payments correctly

• Verify identity with other government agencies (like the IRS and DMV)

If your information is outdated:

• Your wages may not be credited correctly

• Tax refunds or benefit payments could be delayed

• You may encounter issues when applying for benefits or replacing documents

Keeping your SSA record accurate protects both your benefits and your identity.

Reporting a Change of Address to Social Security

When You Need to Report an Address Change

You should report a new address if:

• You receive Social Security retirement, disability, or SSI benefits

• You expect mail from Social Security (letters, forms, notices)

• You move within the U.S. or internationally

If you are not receiving benefits, reporting an address change is usually less urgent, but still recommended to ensure accurate records.

How to Report a Change of Address

You can update your address in one of three ways:

1. Online (Fastest Method)

   • Create or log in to a my Social Security account

   • Update your mailing and residential address directly

2. By Phone

   • Call Social Security’s national toll-free number

   • Be prepared to verify your identity

3. In Person

   • Visit your local Social Security office

   • This option is helpful if you have multiple changes to report or need assistance

Special Situations

• Moving Abroad:
  If you move outside the U.S., you must notify Social Security, especially if you receive benefits. Some benefits have residency rules.

• Direct Deposit:
  Updating your address does not automatically change your bank information. You must update that separately if needed.

Reporting a Name Change Due to Marriage

When You Should Report a Name Change

You should report your name change as soon as possible after marriage, especially if:

• You work and earn wages

• You file taxes

• You receive Social Security benefits

• You plan to update your driver’s license or passport

Your name with Social Security should always match your legal name used for employment and tax purposes.

How to Change Your Name with Social Security

Name changes cannot be completed entirely online. You must submit documentation.

You can apply:

• By mail, or

• In person at a Social Security office

Documents You’ll Need

You must provide:

1. Proof of the name change

   • Marriage certificate (certified copy)

2. Proof of identity

   • U.S. passport, or

   • Driver’s license or state ID (in your old or new name)

3. Proof of citizenship or immigration status (if not already on record)

Original documents or certified copies are required—photocopies are not accepted.

What Happens Next

• Social Security updates your record

• You receive a new Social Security card with your new name and the same SSN

• There is no fee for this service

Reporting a Name Change After Divorce

When a Divorce Requires a Name Update

You should report a name change if:

• You return to your maiden name

• You adopt a new legal name after divorce

If you keep the same name, no update is required.

Required Documents

You will need:

• Divorce decree showing the name change authorization

• Proof of identity

• Citizenship or immigration documents, if applicable

The process is the same as a marriage-related name change: apply by mail or in person.

Important Tip

Make sure your divorce decree explicitly allows the name change. If it does not, you may need a separate court order before Social Security can update your record.

Reporting a Change of Name for Other Reasons

Social Security also handles name changes due to:

• Court-ordered legal name changes

• Gender identity-related name changes

• Corrections to spelling errors

In these cases, you will need:

• A court order or legal document

• Proof of identity

• Citizenship or immigration documentation if not already recorded

Reporting the Birth of a Child to Social Security

Getting a Social Security Number for Your Child

Most parents apply for their child’s SSN at the hospital when completing the birth registration form. This is the easiest and fastest method.

If you did not apply at birth, you can still apply later.

How to Apply for a Child’s SSN

You must:

• Complete an application for a Social Security card

• Submit it by mail or in person

Required Documents

You’ll need:

• Proof of the child’s age and identity

  • Birth certificate (preferred)

• Proof of the child’s U.S. citizenship, if not shown on the birth certificate

• Proof of identity for the parent or guardian

• Proof of parental relationship

Original or certified copies are required.

Why It Matters

Your child’s SSN is needed for:

• Claiming them as a dependent on taxes

• Health insurance coverage

• Government benefits

• Education records in the future

Reporting a Child’s Name Change

If a child’s name changes due to:

• Adoption

• Court order

• Correction of an error

You must report the change using the same process as for adults:

• Submit legal proof of the name change

• Provide identity and citizenship documents

How Long Updates Take

• Address changes: Usually effective immediately or within a few days

• Name changes:

  • Processing may take 1–2 weeks

  • Mailing time for the new Social Security card can add additional days

If you are expecting benefit payments or tax filings soon, update your information as early as possible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Waiting too long to report changes
   This can cause wage reporting and tax issues.

2. Using different names across agencies
   Your name should match Social Security, IRS, and employer records.

3. Sending photocopies of documents
   Only originals or certified copies are accepted.

4. Forgetting to update employers
   Updating Social Security does not automatically update your workplace records.

5. Assuming changes are automatic
   Marriage, divorce, or moving does not update Social Security unless you take action.

Final Thoughts

Life changes happen—marriage, divorce, relocation, and welcoming a child are all milestones worth celebrating. But they also come with administrative responsibilities. Reporting changes of address or name to Social Security is a simple but critical step to protect your benefits, identity, and financial future.

The good news is that Social Security provides clear processes, no fees, and multiple ways to update your information. Handle these updates promptly, keep your documents organized, and your records will stay accurate for years to come.

If you are unsure which changes apply to your situation, contacting Social Security directly or visiting a local office can help you avoid delays and mistakes. Staying proactive now saves headaches later.