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Need help scheduling SSA appointment for name change - what docs required?

Hey everyone, I'm trying to change my name and need to make an appointment. Has anyone gone through this process recently? What documents do I need to bring? Any tips on making the process smoother? I've heard it can be a real hassle.

I just went through this a few months ago! Here's what you need to know: • Bring your current ID (driver's license or state ID) • You'll need the court order for your name change • Social Security card (if you have it) • Birth certificate • Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement) Make sure all your documents are originals, not copies. The appointment itself wasn't too bad, but getting all the paperwork together was a pain. Good luck!

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Thank you so much! This is super helpful. Did you have to wait long for an appointment?

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It took about 3 weeks to get an appointment when I did it. But I've heard it can vary depending on your location and how busy they are. Might be worth calling to check current wait times.

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dont forget to bring a pen! the one time i went to change my adress they didnt have any pens available lol 🤦‍♂️

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ugh, i tried to do this last month and the wait times were insane. Couldn't even get through on the phone to make an appointment. Anyone know a better way to contact them?

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I found a way to get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's the link: https://claimyr.com/?ref=sdi

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Wait, seriously? Is that even legal? Sounds kinda sketchy tbh 🤔

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Yep, totally legit. I was skeptical at first too, but it saved me hours of waiting on hold. They just automate the hold process for you. Worth every penny imo

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Can confirm, I used this service too. It's a game changer if you're tired of being on hold forever.

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Pro tip: if you're changing your name, don't forget to update it EVERYWHERE. I'm talking bank accounts, credit cards, utilities, car registration, passport... the list goes on. It's a pain but worth doing all at once.

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Anyone know if you can do this process online? Seems ridiculous we still have to go in person for everything in 2023 🙄

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Unfortunately, name changes still require in-person visits. They need to verify your identity and documents. Maybe someday we'll catch up with the times lol

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Ugh, figures. Thanks for the info tho!

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Just a heads up, make sure your court order is certified and less than 60 days old. I got turned away because mine was too old and had to get a new one. Such a waste of time 😤

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Oh wow, I had no idea about the 60-day thing. Thanks for the warning!

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This varies by state btw. In my state, there's no time limit on the court order. Always check your local requirements!

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has anyone here changed there name for marriage? is it the same process or easier?

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It's generally easier for marriage. You just need your marriage certificate instead of a court order. The rest of the process is pretty similar tho.

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thx! that doesnt sound too bad

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I'm in the same boat, OP. Been trying to get this done for weeks. The bureaucracy is REAL 😫

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Quick question: does anyone know if you need to change your name with Social Security before or after changing it on your driver's license? I'm getting conflicting info online.

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Do Social Security first! Most DMVs require an updated SS card to change your license. Learned this the hard way 🤦‍♀️

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Ahh, that makes sense. Thanks for saving me a trip!

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PSA: If you're changing your name, don't forget to update your voter registration too! It's easy to overlook but important for avoiding issues at the polls.

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