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Family Tax Topics
How Changing Your Name Affects Your Taxes
Updated on: October 13, 2026
Have you changed your name recently? Whether because of marriage, divorce, or simply preference, if you change your name, you need to notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) to update your Social Security Number (SSN), update your government-issued identification(s), and your employer records before filing your taxes. This will ensure your tax return isn’t delayed when you file.
Does a name change affect my taxes?
Yes, your identification information must match your W-2 information, and these must match the SSA information. If for any reason this information doesn’t all match, processing of your tax return may be delayed while you update your information.
How do I report a name change?
Legally changing your name entails notifying the Social Security Administration (SSA), so they can change your name on your Social Security account and card. To do this, you submit Form SS-5 to the Social Security Administration and you must provide proof of your legal name change – this could be a marriage license, a court order, or a decree of divorce. Wait 10 to 14 days after updating with the SSA before filing your tax return.
It is important that the name the SSA has for your Social Security number agrees with the name on your tax return. When you file your tax return (either e-file or mail), it will be rejected if the name in the SSA's records differs from the name on your tax return.
What if I have a different name on my W2 and Social Security Card?
When you’re gathering up documentation in preparation for filing your taxes, if your W-2 or 1099 has a different name from your identification, notify your employer, bank, and other payers of your new name.
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The Money Today Guarantee is only available to clients who (i) are approved for an Early Tax Refund Advance loan; and (ii) elect and are eligible to receive loan funds on a prepaid card. Loan available during hours of operation. Hours vary by location. Loan application must be submitted by 11pm local time. If funds are not credited to your card before 12am local time, Jackson Hewitt will credit $50 within 2 weeks to your card if available or provide you a $50 eGift card. Fees, terms, and conditions apply to the prepaid card. The Early Tax Refund Advance (ETRA) is a loan secured by, and paid back with, your tax refund and is offered by First Century Bank, N.A. Loan amounts are determined by your expected federal refund, less authorized fees and underwriting. Loan amounts are $300, $500, $1,000, and $1,500. To be eligible for the $1,500 ETRA loan, your expected federal refund, less authorized fees, must be at least $5,000. Most common ETRA loan amount approved is $300. ETRA loan is subject to underwriting and approval. Loan proceeds are typically available on the same day of approval, if disbursed on a prepaid card offered at Jackson Hewitt offices, or in 1-5 business days with direct deposit. Terms and restrictions apply. For details visit jacksonhewitt.com/loans. Jackson Hewitt is a Rhode Island Licensed Loan Broker and holds other relevant licenses for the locations where this product is offered. If approved, a finance charge applies except for residents of CT and NE.