TN 17 (01-24)

RM 10212.156 Name Correction Procedure when Number Holder Never Requested the Different Name Shown on the Numident

Follow this procedure if the applicant alleges they did not request the name change shown on their latest Numident record.

A. Request a microprint of the prior SS-5

  • If an applicant alleges never having requested the prior name change shown on the latest Numident record request a microprint of the prior SS-5 to determine on what basis the change was made. For instructions on how to request microprints of Form SS-5s, see RM 10220.365.

NOTE: Generally, the cycle date (CYD) indicates that we processed the SS-5 before the implementation of SSA’s legal name change policy on 12/17/2005.

B. Review the microprint information with the number holder

  1. 1. 

    If the applicant completed the SS-5 for the latest Numident record, work with the applicant to suggest acceptable identity documents supporting the name shown on the Numident record or evidence of legal name (e.g., birth certificate, marriage document) to process a name change or correction.

  2. 2. 

    If someone other than the numberholder completed the SS-5 for the latest Numident record, develop for a name correction per RM 10212.150.C if

  • The individual's explanation for the lack of evidence is credible (e.g., Office of Central Operations processed the name change Form OAAN-7003.2 based on an employer wage report); and

  • The identifying information, except for the name, shown on the latest Numident record matches the information on the current SS-5; and

  • The applicant provides a document identifying them in the current name as reflected in the evidence of their legal name.

C. References

  • RM 10212.001 Legal Name for an SSN

  • RM 10212.150 Name Corrections on the SSN Card

  • RM 10212.160A Last Numident record created by SSA

  • RM 10210.405 Evidence of Identity for an SSN Card

  • RM 10220.365 Requesting a Copy of a Completed SSN Application


To Link to this section - Use this URL:
http://policy.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0110212156
RM 10212.156 - Name Correction Procedure when Number Holder Never Requested the Different Name Shown on the Numident - 01/18/2024
Batch run: 01/18/2024
Rev:01/18/2024