Checked against official SSA, State Department, IRS and USAGov pages and forms on 2026-10-07. Agency rules and fees change; the agency's current instructions win.
The IRS matches the names on your return against Social Security records. Its name-change FAQ says: "Make sure that the name shown on your Social Security card matches the name you use on your tax return to prevent delays in processing your return and issuing any refunds."
You don't have to change your name first. The IRS: "You can elect 'married filing jointly' filing status without changing your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA)." But: "If you haven't changed your name with the SSA, you'll need to use your former name on the tax return instead of your married name."
The IRS says to "Report any change to the Social Security Administration by visiting their website or calling them at 800-772-1213 (TTY 800-325-0778)." See the Social Security steps.
The IRS says to contact your employer "and ask them to file corrected forms to reflect your new name as it appears on your Social Security card". It also says: "You can correct the name on copies of Form W-2 and Form 1099 that you use to file your return." If you get a Form W-2c, "please include a copy with your tax return."
Two W-2s, one in each name? "No, report all income on one return."
Also note: "The spelling of your name on your tax return will be used on any refund we issue you."
Taxes are one step. The kit puts Social Security, your license, passport, payroll, voter registration and accounts in order, with trackers in PDF and Word. See also the checklist after marriage.
Get the Name Change Kit (PDF + Word), $12
Instant download. 14-day no-questions refund. Edition 1.0, dated 2026-10-07. Federal steps for every state; state steps you look up.