A Guide to Identity Theft Protection
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How to Change Your Name on Your Credit Card
Last Updated: September 25, 2023
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Key points about: How to change your name on a credit card
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If you want to change your legal name, consider getting multiple certified copies of the official name change.
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The Social Security Administration authorizes your legal name change with a new Social Security card so you can update your other forms of identification.
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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 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
When you apply for a marriage license or any other official form of name change, it’s a good idea to order multiple certified copies. If you haven’t already done this, take a step back and order them as soon as you can. You can’t move forward with your name change without them.
After obtaining a certified copy of your marriage license or other legal document, 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.)
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
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While waiting for your new Social Security card, make a list of all the places you’ll need to notify of your name change. These places include your employer, the post office, utilities, insurance companies, and banks. Clean out your wallet and take note of any membership or library cards where you’ll need to make changes. Learn what each of these places requires to make the change and work down the list.
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 take 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 number.
You’ll want to get this handled 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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