Newlyweds and the recently divorced should ensure the name on their tax return matches the name registered with the Social Security Administration (SSA). A mismatch could unexpectedly increase a tax bill or reduce the size of any refund.
- For recently married taxpayers, the tax scenario begins when the bride says “I do.” If she takes her husband’s last name, but doesn’t tell the SSA about the name change, complications may arise. For example, if the couple files a joint tax return with the bride’s new name, the IRS computers will not be able to match the new name with the Social Security number.
- After a divorce, a woman who had taken her husband’s name and made that change known to the SSA should contact the SSA if she goes back to her previous name.
If you have any questions related to your requirements to the IRS after getting married or divorced, or need help changing your name with the SSA, give us a call. We’re here to help.