SSN in maiden name

[PickleChips 56]

So I know to apply for my SSN as soon as I arrive in my maiden name (arriving on a K1). Then go in after I get married and change my name on it. My question is... is that absolutely necessary? For example: I got my social security number in my home country (Canada) when I was 14, grew up, got married and never changed my name on it. I've never had an issue. Is it the same in the US or do you absolutely have to change your name? Call me lazy but going back in to a governmental agency after dealing with all this visa stuff sounds like an extra step to me.

[KayDeeCee 4,893]

Not absolutely necessary, but you may want to after you receive your green card. If you want to update your status with them to a permanent resident and remove the stipulation that will be printed on it, then go then. For employment purposes and showing your SSN and ID, you may want/need those to match. Some states require that the name on all of your documents, SSN included, match when getting a state ID or drivers license.

If you become a US citizen, you will need to update your status with them for sure at that time.

~ Moved from Moving to the US and Your New Life in America to Social Security Numbers - topic about SSN~

[Nich-Nick 3,354]

So I know to apply for my SSN as soon as I arrive in my maiden name (arriving on a K1). Then go in after I get married and change my name on it. My question is... is that absolutely necessary? For example: I got my social security number in my home country (Canada) when I was 14, grew up, got married and never changed my name on it. I've never had an issue. Is it the same in the US or do you absolutely have to change your name? Call me lazy but going back in to a governmental agency after dealing with all this visa stuff sounds like an extra step to me.

Read this brochure from SSA. http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10002.pdf

Page 10 tells you to update your immigration status if it changes. Becoming a permanent resident is a change from K1 visa.

They also discuss why you should change your name with them. Change name and status at the same time after you get the greencard.