I completed a legal name change due to marriage and have a new social security card with my new name on it. Will this affect my refund?

[HelenaC]

Usually, no, this should not affect your refund. The Social Security Administration (SSA) shares the name change with the IRS. The only time it would affect your refund, is if you did the name change within the last week or so and the IRS has not received your new name from the SSA. 

If your income tax return(s) got "Accepted" by the IRS, that means the IRS has your new name. Sometimes, the IRS, for security reasons, may send you a letter to verify who you are. Just follow the instructions on the letter.  See Taxpayers Receiving Identity Verification Letter Should Use ... - IRS.gov

Related information: Does it matter whose name goes first on a joint return?

[Cassiehester]

Actually, that's not true! Today is 3/6/2020. I was married on 11/10/2018, changed my name with SS on 11/30/18, recieved my new SS card with my new married name, Filed taxes in March 2019, provided all information regarding my name change, and to this day I still have not received my 2018 federal income tax refund! I have talked with the IRS on many occasions and no seems to be able to tell me what's going on! They think its due to discrepancies with my maiden and married name but no one will offer help to fix this frustrating situation!  Currently on hold with SS administration now....for the 2nd time today. 

[AkinaLO]

Hang in there. The IRS is processing your return and will send you an update soon. They usually mail a letter with all of the information. Keep checking on your return through the IRS website because they update regularly. 

Please refer to the article below.    

Why do some refunds take longer than others?  

[Ahill202020]

Helena, is your 2019 refund oh hold? I think I may be having a similar issue. 

[Ahill202020]

Sorry, I meant Cassie