Have You Recently Changed Your Name?

Have you recently changed your name?

A mismatch between the name(s) shown on a tax return and the Social Security Administration (SSA) records can cause problems in the processing of a return and may even delay a refund.   

Here are some of the issues they can help with, to make preparation of your taxes flawless:

1. If you changed your name as a result of a recent marriage or divorce you’ll want to take the necessary steps to ensure the name on your tax return matches the name registered with the Social Security Administration. If you took your spouse’s last name or if both spouses hyphenate their last names, there may be complications if the SSA isn’t notified. If newlyweds file a tax return using their new last names IRS computers can’t match the new name with their Social Security Numbers (SSN).
2. If you were recently divorced and changed back to your previous last name you’ll also need to notify the SSA of this name change.
3. If you adopted your spouse’s children after getting married you’ll want to make sure the children have a SSN. Taxpayers must provide a SSN for each dependent claimed on a tax return.

4. If names have changed, Form SS-5 needs to be filed to notify the SSA of the changes and will ensure that the names and SSNs match when filing the tax return. The form can be accessed on the SSA website by clicking here, or by calling 800-772-1213.  You can also get the form at any local SSA office.
5. If you’ve changed your address as well as your name, Form 8822 needs to be filed with the IRS.  File a Change of Address Form with the U.S. Postal Service as well.
6. Let your employer know that you’ve changed your name and/or address.  This will ensure receipt of your Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, after the end of the year.

Your local PRO-TAX can help clarify what you’ll need in order to correct or change the records and to prevent problems or delays. Feel free to call us at 1-800-809-2829.

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