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How to Change Your Name on Your Credit Card

Last Updated: August 30, 2024

3 min read

Table of contents

Key Points:

If you want to change your legal name, consider getting multiple certified copies of the official name change.
The Social Security Administration authorizes your legal name change with a new Social Security card so you can update your other forms of identification.
Each credit card provider has different steps for authorizing a name change on your account.

In many ways, your name is your identity, particularly when it comes to things like legal documents and credit cards. But what if you change your name, for example, because you got married? Now what?

When you get married or want to change your name for any other reason, among the top items on your to-do list should be changing your name on your credit card.

The process of changing your name will take some time. Consider these tips to help you get it done smoothly.

Initial steps: applying for an official name change

After obtaining a certified copy of your marriage license or other legal document (like a court order from your state of residence), your next stop is the Social Security Administration. Fill out Form SS-5 and take the completed form, along with a certified copy of any relevant required documents (like your marriage license), to your local Social Security office. Click here to find a Social Security office near you.

Did you know?

When you apply for a marriage license or any other legal form of name change, it’s a good idea to order multiple certified copies. You may need to show them to other government agencies or companies for them to accept your name change request.

Next steps: notifying of your name change

Once you have your new Social Security card, it’s time to change your driver’s license. You’ll need to contact your state’s driver licensing bureau to see what’s involved, as rules vary in different states.

You can make a list of all the places you’ll need to notify of your name change so you don’t miss a beat. Include your employer, the post office, utilities, streaming services, memberships, library cards, insurance companies, and banks (loans and credit cards).

Final steps: changing your name on your credit card

Contact your credit card issuer(s). Every company has slightly different procedures for how to change your name on a credit card. Many credit providers will accept a request for a name change online or by phone.

Some financial institutions may require you to come into a local branch office. Most typically require a copy of your marriage certificate and your new identification. That includes your updated driver’s license or state identification card and Social Security card.

You’ll want to handle this as quickly as the process allows. If you don’t inform your creditors of your name change, you may have problems in the future. As for your credit report, you don’t have to notify the three major credit bureaus of your new name. They’ll get that information from your lenders.

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