Skip to content
See your exact steps free
Changing a first or middle name · .gov-verified Last verified 2026-06-15

Changing Your First or Middle Name After Marriage

A marriage name change generally covers your last name, not your first or middle name. Social Security accepts your marriage document for a surname change because the new last name can be derived from the names already on it. Changing your first or middle name usually isn't supported by the marriage record alone and typically needs a court-ordered legal name change, which you'd start at your county court.

The steps for your situation

  1. Understand what your marriage document covers

    Social Security's rules treat your marriage document as evidence for a surname change, such as taking your spouse's last name or hyphenating both last names. A first- or middle-name change generally can't be derived from the marriage document, so the marriage record alone usually won't support it.

    Source

  2. Change your last name with Social Security

    For a surname change, apply for a corrected card with Form SS-5 and use your marriage document as evidence of the new name. There's no fee. Bring or mail your original documents to your local Social Security office.

    Source

  3. For a first or middle name change, go through your county court

    To change your first or middle name, you generally need a court-ordered legal name change rather than relying on your marriage record. The rules and forms vary by state, so start with your county court for the process where you live. A court order then serves as your name-change document with Social Security.

    Source

Official sources

Every step is backed by an official government page — confirm the current rules on the source before you act.

See your exact steps free

Answer a few quick questions and we'll tell you what to do first, second, and third for your exact situation — each step linked to the real .gov page. No account, no card.

Start your free preview

Frequently asked questions

Can I change my first name through a marriage name change?
Usually not on its own. Social Security treats the marriage document as evidence for a surname change. A first-name change typically requires a court-ordered legal name change, which varies by state. Start with your county court.

Not legal advice · Not a government service · Not affiliated with any government agency.