POMS Reference

RM 10212: Legal Names and Changes to the Numident

TN 6 (07-13)

A. Policy on using the legal name for an SSN

An applicant must use his or her legal name when filing an SSN application:

  • for an original SSN and SSN card;

  • for a replacement SSN card with a name change or name correction; and

  • to update the Numident record to show the legal name (while suppressing the card).

SSA does not require applicants requesting an SSN replacement card to change the name on the Numident to their legal name if SSA records do not reflect the legal name and the submitted evidence of identity document shows the name on SSA records.

B. Reference