A Name Change Could Affect Your Taxes

Did you know that a name change could impact your taxes? Here’s what you need to know:

1. Report name changes. Did you get married and are now using your new spouse’s last name or hyphenated your last name? Did you divorce and go back to using your former last name? In either case, you should notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) of your name change. That way, your new name on your IRS records will match up with your SSA records. A mismatch could delay your refund.
2. Dependent’s name change. Notify the SSA if your dependent had a name change. For example, this could apply if you adopted a child, and the child’s last name changed. If you adopted a child who does not have a Social Security number, you may use an Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number (ATIN) on your tax return. An ATIN is a temporary number. You can apply for one by filing Form W-7A, Application for Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions, with the IRS.
3. Get a new card. File Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card, to notify SSA of your name change. You can get the form on SSA.gov or call 800-772-1213 to order it. Your new card will show your new name with the same SSN you had before. If you need help completing the form or gathering the evidence you are required to submit, please call our office.
4. Report changes in circumstances when they happen. If you enrolled in health insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, you may receive the benefit of advance payments of the premium tax credit. These are paid directly to your insurance company to lower your monthly premium. Report changes in circumstances, such as a name change, a new address and a change in your income or family size to the Marketplace when they happen. Doing so will help you avoid getting too much or too little advance payment of the premium tax credit.

If you have any questions related to IRS requirements regarding a name change, please call us.