How to Change Your Name On Your Social Security Card After Divorce? | 2025

Navigating a divorce can be a complex journey, often involving a lot of administrative tasks. As you embark on this new chapter, one of the most crucial first steps for updating your identity is learning how to change your name on your Social Security card after divorce. This seemingly small step is the foundation for updating all your other important documents, like your driver’s license and passport. That’s where HitchSwitch comes in!

While the Social Security Administration (SSA) encourages using their online tools to start the process, it’s important to note that for a name change due to divorce, you will typically need to complete the process in person or by mail. The online portal helps you understand requirements and schedule an appointment at a local office. For an in-depth outline of the name change process, click here to check out our guide.

How to Change Your Name On Your Social Security Card After Divorce?

For name changes after divorce, the SSA generally requires you to complete the process either in person or by mail. Here’s how to navigate it:

• Start Online (Optional, but Recommended for Guidance)
  • Click here to access the official SSA name change questionnaire.
  • Based on your answers, the SSA’s online tool will clarify the specific documents you need and guide you to schedule an appointment.
• Gather The Following Documents: To successfully change your name on your Social Security card after divorce, you’ll typically need to provide the following documents.
  • Your Original or Certified Divorce Decree or Court Order: This is the official legal proof of your name change. It’s vital that your divorce decree explicitly states your name reverting to your former or maiden name. If it doesn’t, you may need a separate court order for a legal name change.
  • Proof of Identity: A valid, unexpired government-issued identification document in your current name. This could be your driver’s license, state-issued ID, or U.S. passport.
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship (if not already established with the SSA): This could be your U.S. Birth Certificate or U.S. Passport. While you might have provided this when you first got your Social Security number, the SSA may request it again to confirm.
  • A completed SS-5 form, the Application for a Social Security Card. (HitchSwitch provides this pre-filled as part of your personalized package!)

Important note: Your Social Security number itself will not change, only your name.  The SSA requires original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies, even notarized ones, are not accepted. All documents are returned to you.

Submit Your Application

Once you have completed your form and all required original or certified documents, you can submit your application:

• In Person: Take your completed SS-5 form and all original or certified documents to your nearest SSA office. This option ensures your documents are reviewed on the spot and typically offers the quickest processing time for the new card once submitted. You can schedule an appointment through the SSA’s online tool to reduce wait times.
• By Mail: Mail your completed SS-5 form and all original or certified documents to your nearest SSA office. Be sure to use a secure, trackable mailing service. While convenient, this method is a longer process.

Simplify Your Name Change with HitchSwitch:

Navigating the various forms, specific requirements, and acceptable documents for a name change after divorce can feel overwhelming. That’s where HitchSwitch shines! We understand the complexities of how to change your name on your Social Security card after divorce. Our service streamlines the entire process, providing you with:

• Personalized, Pre-filled Forms: We take the guesswork out of paperwork, including the SS-5 form, tailored specifically for a name change after divorce.
• Easy-to-Follow, State-Specific Instructions: We guide you through each step, ensuring you have the correct documents and information for your unique situation, whether you choose to visit an office or mail your application.
• Time-Saving Convenience: We handle the research and form preparation, freeing you up to focus on your new beginning.