How to Update Your Social Security Records
In general, you can update your social security records online, by phone, or in person. However, it will still depend on your purpose for requesting the update.
Change in Name
You can only change your name in your records by requesting a replacement Social Security Card. The SSA will mail your new Social Security Card after updating your records.
In general, you can only change your name in your social security records if:
- you got married or divorced
- had your name legally changed through a court order
Depending on the circ*mstances of your name change, you can do it online, by phone, or you may need to go to the SSA office in person. You can take the SSA’s short test to determine the best platform for your request.
Change in Contact Information
An obsolete address, phone number, or email address may prevent you from receiving important SSA notifications. So if you don’t want to lose your benefits, you need to make sure that the contact information in your records is up to date.
Updating your contact information is pretty easy. You just need to log in to your SSA account and change your contact information. Or you can contact the SSA and ask a representative to update your contact information.
Change in Sex Identification
Just like changing your name, you can change your sex identification by requesting a replacement Social Security Card. You don’t need any medical or legal documentation to prove your gender designation. However, you can only set your gender identity to either male or female.
You can do this online or by submitting the required documents in person to the nearest SSA office.
Change in Citizenship or Immigration Status
Updating your citizenship status will also warrant a replacement of your social security card. You may request a replacement online or by calling the SSA and asking a representative to update your citizenship or immigration status. The SSA will mail your new social security card after updating your record.
Correcting Erroneous Information
Depending on the information you want to correct, you may or may not have to request a replacement social security card. However, you will need to present proof of the error. Again, you can do this online or in person.
When to Update Social Security Records After Naturalization
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services advises waiting at least 10 days after your oath-taking ceremony before updating your records. But don’t wait too long, or it might slip your mind.
There are no penalties if you forget to report your change in citizenship. But remember that it’s for your own benefit. So make sure that you find time to do it at some point.
What to Keep in Mind
Keeping your Social Security records up to date is critical for obtaining benefits and avoiding certain pitfalls.
Whether you’re dealing with an unexpected name change, a marriage or civil union, or naturalization into U.S. citizenship, you must take the time to update your records. Doing so assures that you’ll always have access to the funds and benefits associated with your account.
