TIPS FOR RECENTLY MARRIED AND DIVORCED TAXPAYERS

Newlyweds and the recently divorced should ensure the name on their tax return matches the name registered with the Social Security Administration. 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 does not tell the SSA about the name change, a complication may result. If the couple files a joint tax return with her 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.

It is easy to inform the SSA of a name change by filing Form SS-5 at a local SSA office. It usually takes two weeks to have the change verified. The form is available on the agency's website, www.ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, and at local offices. The SSA Web site provides the addresses of local offices.

If you have any questions related to your requirements to the IRS after getting married or divorced, or you would like help changing your name with the SSA, give us a call at (562) 912-4334. We are happy to help.