How To Update Your Social Security Information
About
About Updating Your Social Security Record
You can update or correct the personal information on your Social Security record. Manage your personal information including:
You can learn more about what you need to know about updating your social security record by reading the questions below.
What You Need To Know
No, there is no fee to update your Social Security record, whether you are changing your name, gender marker, or any other information.
Changes typically take a few weeks to process. You will receive your updated Social Security card by mail.
Depending on your situation, you may be able to request your change online. Answer a few questions about yourself, and the SSA will show you the best way to make your request. You may also need to go to a local office.
You can submit your completed application and original or certified documents either by mail or in person at your local Social Security office. Photocopies are not accepted.
You can find your nearest Social Security office by using the Social Security Office Locator on the SSA website.
You can contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) for assistance.
You can check your application or appeal status on the SSA website.
Yes, you can update other information on your Social Security record, such as your address, at the same time. Ensure you have the necessary documentation for any additional changes.
If you need to replace your Social Security card, follow these steps:
Steps to Replace Your Social Security Card
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Gather Required Documents:
- Proof of identity: U.S. driver's license, state-issued non-driver ID card, or U.S. passport.
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful noncitizen status (if not already established with the SSA): U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship.
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Complete the Application:
- Fill out the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5).
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Submit Your Application:
- Online: If you meet the requirements, you can apply for a replacement card online through your My Social Security account. Answer a few questions to see if you meet the requirements.
- By Mail: Mail your completed application and original documents to your local Social Security office.
- In Person: Visit your local Social Security office with your completed application and original documents.
Additional Information
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Number of Replacements: You can request up to three replacement cards in a year and up to ten in a lifetime. Legal name changes and updates to your card do not count toward these limits.
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No Fee: There is no fee for replacing your Social Security card.
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Processing Time: You will typically receive your replacement card within 10 to 14 business days after your application is processed.
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Contact Information: Call 1-800-772-1213. Tell the representative you want to request a replacement Social Security card.
Change or Correct a Name
About Changing or Correcting A Name
You can change or correct the name on your Social Security record. You may do this if it's different than what's currently on your record.
You can contact the Social Security Administration if you have questions or need help. Call 1-800-772-1213. Tell the representative you want to update your name.
How To Change or Correct A Name on Your Social Security Record
Gather the following documents:
- Proof of name change: Court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree.
- Proof of identity: U.S. driver's license, state-issued non-driver ID card, or U.S. passport.
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful noncitizen status: U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship.
Learn more about what documents you will need to get a Social Security Card.
Fill out the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5).
Mail or take the completed application and original documents to your local Social Security Office. Depending on your situation, you may be able to request your change online. Answer a few questions about yourself, and the SSA will show you the best way to make your request.
Update Your Sex Identification
About Updating Your Sex Identification
You can update your sex identification on your Social Security record. You may do this if it's wrong or it has changed from what's currently on your record.
You can contact the Social Security Administration if you have questions or need help. Call 1-800-772-1213. Tell the representative you want to update your sex identification.
How To Change Your Gender Marker On Your Social Security Record
Gather the following documents:
- Proof of identity: U.S. driver's license, state-issued non-driver ID card, or U.S. passport.
- Proof of gender change: One of the following documents:
- A U.S. passport showing the correct gender.
- A state-issued birth certificate showing the correct gender.
- A court order recognizing the gender change.
- A signed letter from a licensed physician confirming the appropriate clinical treatment for gender transition. For more information, see Physician's Certification Letter.
Learn more about what documents you will need to get a Social Security Card.
Fill out the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5).
Mail or take the completed application and original documents to your local Social Security Office.