Does Name Change Affect Tax Return? Name Changes and Tax Returns

by

Legal Name Change and Tax Consequences

When you legally change your name, there are tax consequences to be aware of. Notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) of a name change immediately. The IRS checks SSA records to ensure names and social security numbers on tax forms match. Discrepancies can delay the processing of your return and your refund.

Filing Tax Returns with a New Name

  • Notify the Social Security Administration of a name change immediately.
  • Use the name exactly as it appears on your current Social Security card when filing your tax return.
  • Time name changes due to marriage, divorce, or court order carefully to prevent tax return issues.

Correcting Tax Forms and Identification Numbers

  • Apply for an Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number by filing Form W-7A with the IRS if an adopted child has no Social Security number.
  • Get a corrected Social Security card from the SSA after a name change to avoid mismatch issues when filing taxes.

Leave a Comment