To change a U.S. citizen’s name on official files, the individual must submit a completed Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) to the Social Security Administration (SSA). This requires original documents proving citizenship (e.g., a birth certificate) and identity (e.g., a government-issued ID). If the name change is court-ordered, a certified court document must be included. The SSA will update the citizen’s records, issue a new Social Security card, and forward the change to other federal agencies. Additional steps include updating state motor vehicle records, tax filings with the IRS, and passport renewal through the U.S. Department of State.

The process ensures compliance with federal and state legal requirements, maintaining accuracy in government databases critical for identity verification, benefit eligibility, and law enforcement. According to the SSA, approximately 7 million name changes were processed in 2022, reflecting the volume of such requests. A 2021 study by the National Center for Health Statistics found that name discrepancies in medical records affect 3% of U.S. adults, increasing risks of administrative errors and delayed care. Similarly, the IRS estimates that 15% of tax filers with mismatched names face processing delays, underscoring the importance of timely name updates. Legal name changes also impact financial transactions, employment verification, and legal proceedings, necessitating centralized SSA coordination to synchronize across agencies. This systematic approach minimizes discrepancies, upholds public trust in government systems, and ensures equitable access to services.