Change Name on Social Security Card in Knoxville
Complete guide for updating your name on Social Security records after marriage, divorce, or legal name change. Get all the requirements, documents needed, and step-by-step process.
Quick Overview: Name Change Process
Change your name on Social Security card for marriage, divorce, or legal name change. Visit the Knoxville Social Security office with your marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, and other required documents to update your records officially.
This process is free of charge and typically takes 10-14 business days to receive your new card with the updated name.
When You Need to Change Your Name
You must update your name with Social Security within specific timeframes after certain life events. Here are the most common situations requiring a name change on your Social Security card:
Marriage
After getting married, you have the option to change your name to your spouse's surname or hyphenate your names. You'll need your marriage certificate as proof.
Divorce
If you're returning to your maiden name or previous name after divorce, bring your divorce decree or court order. The process requires visiting the Knoxville office in person.
Legal Name Change
For any other legal name change, you'll need a court order from a U.S. court showing your legal name change. Check our requirements page for complete details.
Important Timeline
You should update your name with Social Security before updating it with the IRS, your employer, or other agencies. This ensures consistency across all government records and prevents processing delays.
Required Documents for Name Change
To change your name on your Social Security card, you must provide original documents or certified copies. Photocopies and notarized copies are not acceptable. Here's what you need to bring to the Knoxville Social Security office:
Primary Identity Documents
- U.S. driver's license or state-issued non-driver identity card
- U.S. passport (current or expired within 12 months)
- Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship
- Current foreign passport with valid U.S. immigration documentation
- Permanent resident card or alien registration receipt card
Name Change Documentation
- Marriage: Certified marriage certificate from the state where married
- Divorce: Final divorce decree showing name change or court order
- Legal Name Change: Court order from U.S. court showing legal name change
- Adoption: Certified adoption decree
Document Requirements
All documents must be either originals or certified copies from the issuing agency. You can get certified copies of vital records from the vital statistics office in the state where the event occurred. Visit our documents needed page for a complete checklist.
Step-by-Step Name Change Process
Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documentation including your identity document and name change proof. Ensure all documents are original or certified copies. Review our complete requirements list to avoid multiple trips.
Complete Application Form SS-5
Fill out Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card). You can download and complete it beforehand or fill it out at the office. Make sure all information matches your supporting documents exactly.
Download Official Form
Get the official SS-5 form from Social Security:
Download Form SS-5Official Social Security Administration form
Visit the Knoxville Social Security Office
No appointment is necessary, but arrive early to minimize wait times. The office is typically less busy on weekdays between 10 AM - 3 PM. Check current office hours and consider using public transportation or review parking options.
Submit Your Application
Present your completed form and documents to a Social Security representative. They will verify your identity, review your name change documentation, and process your application. The representative will return your original documents immediately.
Wait for Your New Card
Your new Social Security card will arrive by mail within 10-14 business days. The card will show your new name but the same Social Security number. Track your application status through your my Social Security account.
Processing Time & Cost
Cost: Changing your name on your Social Security card is completely free.
Processing Time: 10-14 business days for mail delivery of your new card.
Expedited Service: Not available for name changes; all requests follow standard processing.
What to Update After Name Change
Once you receive your new Social Security card, update your name with these organizations in the following order:
Government Agencies (Update First)
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - File Form 8822 for address/name change
- Department of Motor Vehicles - Update driver's license and vehicle registration
- Voter registration office
- U.S. Passport Agency
Financial Institutions
- Banks and credit unions
- Credit card companies
- Investment accounts and retirement plans
- Mortgage lender and loan servicers
Insurance and Benefits
- Health insurance providers
- Life insurance companies
- Employer benefits and payroll
- Medicare benefits (if applicable)
Pro Tip
Keep several certified copies of your name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc.) as many organizations will require them for updating your records. Consider getting 5-10 copies initially to save time later.
Special Considerations
Non-Citizens
If you're not a U.S. citizen, you'll need to provide current immigration documents along with your name change proof. Acceptable documents include:
- Permanent resident card (Green card)
- Employment authorization document (work permit)
- Valid foreign passport with immigration stamps
- I-94 arrival/departure record
Name Change Due to Gender Transition
Social Security accepts court orders for name changes related to gender transition. You may also update your gender marker simultaneously. Contact the Knoxville office for specific guidance on this process.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Bringing photocopies instead of original or certified documents
- Incomplete or illegible information on Form SS-5
- Mismatched names between application and supporting documents
- Using expired identity documents (over 12 months for passports)
- Not updating other records after receiving new Social Security card
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a new Social Security card with changed name?
Your new Social Security card will arrive by mail within 10-14 business days after processing your application. There is no expedited service available for name changes.
Can I change my name on my Social Security card online?
No, name changes must be done in person at a Social Security office. You cannot change your name through the online portal or by mail.
Do I need an appointment to change my name?
Appointments are not required for name changes, but you can schedule one to reduce wait time. Walk-ins are accepted during regular business hours.
Will my Social Security number change when I change my name?
No, your Social Security number remains the same when you change your name. Only your name will be updated on the card and in Social Security records.
What if I need my Social Security card immediately for employment?
The Social Security office can provide a written verification letter showing your name change while you wait for your new card to arrive by mail. This letter is acceptable for most employment verification purposes.
Need Help with Your Name Change?
Visit the Knoxville Social Security office for personalized assistance with your name change application.
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