IRS Tax Tip 2018-36, March 8, 2018 When a taxpayer changes their name, that change can affect their taxes. All the names on a taxpayer’s tax return must match Social Security Administration records. A name mismatch can delay a tax refund. Here’s what a taxpayer should do if anyone listed on their tax return changed their name: Reporting Taxpayer’s Name Change. Taxpayers who should notify the SSA of a name change include: Taxpayers who got married and use their spouse’s last name. Recently married taxpayers who now use a hyphenated name. Divorced taxpayers who now use their former last name. Reporting Dependent’s Name Change. Taxpayers should notify the SSA if a dependent’s name changed. This includes an adopted child who now has a new last name. If the child doesn’t have a Social Security number, the taxpayer may use a temporary Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number on the tax return. Taxpayers can apply for an ATIN by filing a Form W-7A. Getting a New Social Security Card. Taxpayers who have a name change should get a new card that reflects a name change. File Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. Taxpayers can get the form on SSA.gov or by calling 800-772-1213. More information Form W-7A, Application for Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions IRS YouTube Videos: Changed Your Name after Marriage or Divorce? – English | Spanish | ASL (obsolete) Subscribe to IRS Tax Tips
