Maiden name on W-2 an issue?

Forum|Forum|5 years ago
May 3, 2021
2 replies
22 views

I got married in 2020 but did not legally change my name until 2021. So my Social Security card has my married name, while my W-2 still has my maiden name. Should I file under my married name, and if I do, will the inconsistency between that and my W-2 be an issue? I've received conflicting info from my HR rep, IRS.gov, etc...some say that the IRS only uses your SSN when checking against the SSA's records, and that it's fine if they're different, but I've read in other places that the inconsistency can cause delays. Thanks!

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DawnC

Employee Tax Expert

On your tax return, use the name that SSA has on file for you now. If there is going to be any problem or delay, it will occur when you e-file. If the name on your tax return does not match what is on file with SSA for your social security number, it could cause your return to be rejected. But if it is rejected, you can just correct the name and re-submit for e-filing. Having your maiden name on your W-2s usually will not cause a delay as the social security numbers will still match up accordingly.

If you are concerned about an unlikely delay due to your name change, you could have your employer issue you a corrected W-2 with your updated married name, but as long as you can successfully e-file, you return should go through the automatic processing without issue. To avoid delays, do not file by mail, use electronic filing. If your return gets rejected, make sure you are using the name that SSA has as of today and re-submit the return. As long as you e-file, your tax return should be auto-processed and the IRS issues more than 9 out of 10 refunds in less than 21 days.

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