How to change your last name on a credit card

Quick insights

Changing your last name can be a significant milestone, whether it’s due to marriage, divorce or another personal reason. If you have a credit card, updating your account to reflect your new name helps keep your information accurate and up to date.

Here are some things to know about changing your last name on a credit card and what to expect along the way.

How do you change your last name on a credit card?

The process to change your last name on a credit card may vary by card, but generally these are the steps you can follow:

1. Securing legal documentation

You often need to first update your new last name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) before trying to change your name on your credit card.

While some card issuers may require certified copies of legal documents that prove your name change, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree, others may only need to verify your information with the SSA.

Chase customers who have already updated their name with the SSA may digitally change their name on credit or deposit accounts at chase.com or in our app without providing additional legal documentation.

2. Getting a new driver’s license

You might consider getting a new driver’s license or state-issued ID that reflects your new last name. However, an updated photo ID is not always required to change your name on a credit card. Some credit card issuers may use your existing ID without the name change for verification during the online process.

3. Contacting your credit card issuer

Many issuers offer multiple ways to initiate your name change, such as an online form, a secure message through your account or a phone call to customer service. In some cases, visiting a branch location may also be an option. If you’re an authorized user on an account, the primary cardmember may have to initiate this change.

You’ll likely be asked to submit supporting documentation to your card issuer. This step helps confirm your identity and helps to ensure that the change is processed accurately.

What documents do you need to change your name?

Some credit card issuers require legal documentation before approving a name change on your account. The specific documents you’ll need may depend on the reason for your name change and your issuer’s policies.

If your credit card issuer does require documentation, you may be asked to provide one of the following depending on the reason for your name change:

Some issuers may also request a copy of your Social Security card showing your new name. If you’re mailing original documents or certified copies, it may be a good idea to get multiple copies when you complete your legal name change to help avoid delays with other financial institutions.

For minor corrections—like a single typo—your card issuer may be able to fix the error with less documentation than a formal name change.

How long does this process take?

The time it takes to update your last name on a credit card can vary by issuer. Some issuers may be able to process requests within a few business days once they receive your documents. Others may take a few weeks, especially if documents are mailed. The method you choose to submit your documentation—online, in person or by mail—may also affect the timeline.

During the processing period, your account typically remains active. However, you may notice that your credit card, account statements and online profile might not reflect your new name until the change is complete.

The card issuer typically sends a new card in the mail once the name change is approved and the process is complete.

Other considerations when changing your last name

A name change can affect more than just your credit card. For consistency, you may want to notify other financial institutions and update your name across all your accounts including checking accounts, loans and credit cards from other issuers.

If you have any automatic payments or linked financial accounts, it may be helpful to monitor those accounts for any issues while the change is in progress. While in progress, cardmembers may want to carry a copy of their name change decree or old ID until all cards are updated. Mismatched IDs may lead to declined transactions at physical retail locations.

When you receive your new card with your updated name, destroy your old card (cut it up or shred it) and dispose of it securely.

In summary

To change the name on your credit card, you typically begin by updating your name with the SSA. An updated government-issued ID is optional for Chase cardmembers, but some credit card issuers may require one (check with your issuer for details). Once you have the right documentation, you can initiate the change through your credit card issuer.

You may be able to start the process through your online account, over the phone or in person at a branch, though the exact process may vary by issuer. Factors like how you submit your documentation may affect the time it takes to complete the name change, but it generally ranges anywhere from a few business days to a few weeks.