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I had a legal name change, but my name on one of my W-2's is still my previous name. Do I need to change this? If so, how do I?

I was under the impression that changing my name legally for SSA would automatically apply to the IRS. I've read online that may be incorrect, but nothing states how one would correct this.
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2 Replies

I had a legal name change, but my name on one of my W-2's is still my previous name. Do I need to change this? If so, how do I?

You don’t have to correct your W-2 name. That’s the name on the form that the IRS received. Yes, the IRS will recognize your new name if changed with social security. Going forward ask your employer to change to your new name. 

DavidD66
Expert Alumni

I had a legal name change, but my name on one of my W-2's is still my previous name. Do I need to change this? If so, how do I?

You don't need to worry about the name on your W-2, as long as the Social Security number is correct.  You should use the name on record with the Social Security Administration on your tax return.  There is a possibility that your return will be rejected because your name doesn't match IRS records (they use SSA information).  If that occurs, the change your return to your previous name.  It will be due to a delay in update the records, and is not anything to worry about.  

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