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How to Handle a Name Change with the IRS

Quick answer

You do not file a separate form with the IRS for a personal name change — the IRS matches your tax return to the Social Security Administration. Report the change to Social Security first, then file your taxes in your new name. If SSA hasn't updated your record by tax time, file under your old name to avoid a mismatch.

Form
None (report to SSA instead)
Cost
Free
Processing
Immediate once SSA is updated

Step by step

  1. 1

    Report your name change to the Social Security Administration first (Form SS-5).

  2. 2

    When you file your federal return, use the new name exactly as it appears in the Social Security record.

  3. 3

    If your Social Security record has not been updated by the filing deadline, file under your previous name to avoid a return rejection, and update next year.

What you'll need

Official links

IRS — Name changes & SSN matching ↗

Where this fits in your checklist

The IRS gets your name from Social Security. There's no IRS name-change form for individuals — just make sure SSA is updated before you file.

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IRS & Taxes name change: FAQ

Do I need to notify the IRS of my name change?
Not with a separate form. The IRS matches your return to Social Security records, so notifying the Social Security Administration is what matters. File your taxes only after SSA shows the new name.
Last verified July 16, 2026Reviewed by the Name Change Atlas Editorial Team against official court and .gov sources.

Federal facts verified July 16, 2026. Sources · Methodology.