You must update your Social Security card anytime you legally change your name through marriage, divorce, citizenship, or other legal name change. Fill out SS-5 form and bring marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The process is free and typically takes 2-3 weeks to receive your new card.

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(903) 793-0471

Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

When You Must Update Your Social Security Card

Social Security requires you to update your card within a reasonable time after any legal name change. Common situations include:

  • Marriage - Update after receiving marriage certificate
  • Divorce - Update after divorce decree is finalized
  • Adoption - Update after adoption papers are complete
  • Court-ordered name change - Update after court order
  • Gender marker changes - Update with proper documentation

Important: Update your Social Security card first before updating other documents like driver's license, passport, or bank accounts.

Required Documents for Name Change

To update your Social Security card with a new name, you'll need to provide original documents or certified copies:

Identity Documentation (1 required)

  • U.S. driver's license
  • State-issued non-driver ID card
  • U.S. passport
  • Employee ID card
  • School ID card

Proof of Legal Name Change (1 required)

  • Marriage certificate
  • Divorce decree
  • Court order for name change
  • Adoption decree
  • Certificate of naturalization

Step-by-Step Name Change Process

Step 1: Complete Form SS-5

Download and complete the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5). You can download the form online or pick one up at our Texarkana office.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect original documents showing your identity and proof of your legal name change. We cannot accept photocopies - bring the original documents or certified copies.

Step 3: Visit Our Texarkana Office

Bring your completed SS-5 form and documents to our office. You can schedule an appointment or visit during walk-in hours.

Step 4: Application Review

Our staff will review your application and documents. If everything is complete, we'll process your request and mail your new card to your address on file.

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Processing Times and Fees

No Fee Required

Updating your Social Security card due to a legal name change is completely free. There are no fees or charges for this service.

Processing Time

Your new Social Security card will typically arrive by mail within:

  • 10-14 business days for most applications
  • 2-3 weeks during busy periods
  • Up to 4 weeks if additional verification is needed

Need faster processing? Visit our office in person to avoid any delays. You can check current wait times and processing speeds before your visit.

Common Issues and Tips

Document Requirements

Make sure your name change document is recent and clearly shows both your old and new names. Marriage certificates must be certified copies from the issuing authority.

Timing Your Visit

To avoid long wait times, consider visiting during mid-week mornings. Check our current office hours and plan accordingly.

Multiple Name Changes

If you've had multiple name changes, bring documentation for each change in chronological order to show the complete name history.

Online Services Available

While you cannot change your name online, you can access other Social Security services through your my Social Security account:

  • Check your application status
  • Print a replacement card (after name change is processed)
  • View your Social Security Statement
  • Update your address information

Official Portal

Create your my Social Security account:

Go to Official Site

Official government website - secure and free

Ready to update your Social Security card?

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