Getting married often comes with several changes in life, including some related to legal benefits like Social Security. While certain benefits, such as retirement or disability, remain unaffected by marriage, others might be impacted.
This includes programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI), survivor benefits, and benefits for ex-spouses or children. It’s essential to stay informed about how these changes can affect you.
Why Should You Notify Social Security About Your Marriage?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recommends that you inform them about your marriage as soon as possible. Failing to do so could lead to improper payments or confusion in your benefits. Notifying them allows you to receive guidance tailored to your specific situation and ensures you are receiving the correct benefits.
You can notify the SSA in one of two ways:
- Call: Dial 1-800-772-1213.
- Visit: Go to your local Social Security office for assistance.
It’s crucial to take this step to avoid any complications with your benefits.
Social Security Benefits and Marriage
While some benefits remain unchanged after marriage, others may see adjustments. Here’s a closer look at how certain benefits might change:
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Your household income may increase after marriage, which could affect your SSI eligibility and the amount you receive.
Survivor Benefits: If you were previously receiving survivor benefits from a deceased spouse, marriage could impact the amount you get, depending on your new spouse’s income.
Ex-Spouse Benefits: If you are divorced, your eligibility for ex-spouse benefits may change upon remarriage.
Child Benefits: If your child is receiving benefits based on your record, marriage could impact those benefits as well.
How to Update Your Information After Changing Your Name
If you’ve changed your last name after marriage, it’s important to update your Social Security records. The process for this is relatively simple:
- Online Application: Visit the Social Security website and go to the name change page to complete the process online.
- In-Person Visit: If you prefer, you can start the name change application online, then schedule an appointment at your local office. You’ll need to bring your original marriage certificate as proof of your name change.
Once the change is processed, you should receive a new Social Security card within about 14 working days. Don’t forget to also inform your employer about your name change to ensure that your income is reported correctly.
Getting married can affect certain aspects of your Social Security benefits, including SSI, survivor benefits, and others. It’s essential to notify the Social Security Administration promptly and update any necessary information, such as a name change.
This ensures that you’re receiving the right benefits and helps avoid any potential issues in the future. Always make sure to follow the steps recommended by the SSA to keep your records accurate.
