How can I correct the spelling of my name with the IRS?

The IRS matches your tax return information against Social Security Administration (SSA) records. If your name is misspelled in IRS records, you have several options depending on the situation.

Option 1: Correct It When You File Your Tax Return

According to the IRS, you can correct the spelling of your name when you file your tax return. Simply use the correct spelling on your return. The name on your tax return should match the name shown on your Social Security card exactly.

Important: The spelling of your name on your tax return will be used on any refund the IRS issues you.

Option 2: Call the IRS Directly

You can correct the spelling by calling the IRS toll-free at 800-829-1040. An IRS representative can update your records.

Option 3: Update Your Name with the Social Security Administration First

If your Social Security card has an incorrect spelling, you should correct it with the SSA first. The IRS pulls name information from SSA records, so updating your name with SSA helps ensure consistency across both agencies.

To update your name with the SSA:

1. Complete Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card (available at ssa.gov)
2. Provide documents supporting your legal name, such as:
   
   • Birth certificate
   • Marriage certificate
   • Court order for legal name change
   • Passport
3. Submit the form at your local Social Security office or by mail

SSA Contact Information:

• Phone: 800-772-1213 (TTY: 800-325-0778)
• Website: ssa.gov

Why Name Matching Matters

The IRS computers match your name and Social Security Number against SSA records. When names don't match, it can:

• Cause delays in processing your return
• Delay your refund
• Trigger notices or errors in e-filing

Correcting Names on W-2 and 1099 Forms

If your employer issued a W-2 or 1099 with your name spelled incorrectly:

1. Contact your employer or the institution that issued the form
2. Request they issue a corrected form (Form W-2c or corrected 1099)
3. You can correct the name on the copies you use to file your return
4. Include a copy of Form W-2c with your tax return if you receive one

Do You Need to File an Amended Return?

Generally, no. A simple name spelling correction typically does not require filing Form 1040-X (Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return). You can usually correct it by:

• Using the correct spelling on your next tax return
• Calling the IRS at 800-829-1040
• Updating your records with SSA

However, if the name correction is part of other changes to your return (such as correcting income, deductions, or credits), you would file Form 1040-X.

Special Situations

Recently Married or Divorced? If you changed your name after marriage or divorce, update your name with the SSA before filing your tax return. Use the name that matches your Social Security card on your return, if you haven't updated your card yet, use your former name to avoid processing delays.

Filing Jointly with Different Names? You can file a joint return even if only one spouse has changed their name. Each spouse should use the name that matches their own Social Security card.

Steps to Correct Your Name

Sources:

• IRS FAQ: Procedures for correcting name spelling with IRS 
• IRS FAQ: Filing jointly without changing name with SSA 
• IRS FAQ: Correcting W-2 and 1099 forms with wrong name 
• IRS Newsroom: Changed Your Name After Marriage or Divorce? 
• IRS FAQ: Age, Name or SSN Rejects, Errors, Correction Procedures 
• IRS Form W-2 Instructions – Instructions for ensuring name and SSN match Social Security card