Have you recently changed your name? Maybe due to marriage, divorce, or personal reasons? To keep everything consistent, you need to inform the IRS. This involves sending a formal letter requesting them to update their records.
Writing to the IRS can feel daunting. What should you include? How should you format it? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
In this article, we will share various sample letters. These samples will help you request a name change with the IRS. They are designed to make the process easier for you.
Sample Letter To The Irs Requesting Name Change
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, ZIP Code]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
[IRS Address – if known, otherwise omit]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Subject: Request to Change Name
Dear Sir or Madam:
I am writing to request a change of name with the Internal Revenue Service. My previous name was [Previous Name]. My new name is [New Name].
My Social Security number is [Your Social Security Number].
I legally changed my name on [Date of Name Change] in [City, State] due to [Reason for Name Change – e.g., marriage, divorce, court order].
I have attached a copy of [Supporting Document – e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order] as proof of my name change.
Please update your records to reflect my new name.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your New Name]
How to Write Sample Letter To The Irs Requesting Name Change
Subject Line: Clearly State Your Intent
- The subject line should be concise and direct.
- Employ phrases like “Name Change Request” or “Notification of Name Alteration” for immediate clarity.
- Include your Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for expedited processing.
- Example: Subject: Name Change Request – SSN: XXX-XX-XXXX
Salutation: Maintain Formal Decorum
- Address the IRS appropriately.
- Avoid overly casual greetings.
- Use “Dear Internal Revenue Service” or “To Whom It May Concern” if you lack a specific contact.
- Steer clear of personal names unless you possess a direct contact within the agency.
Body – Paragraph 1: Introduction and Pertinent Details
- Begin by explicitly stating your previous and current legal names.
- Include your SSN or ITIN.
- Mention the reason for the name change (e.g., marriage, divorce, court order). A brief explanation suffices; avoid unnecessary detail.
- For instance: “I am writing to apprise you of a legal name change. My former legal name was Jane Doe, and my current legal name is Jane Smith. My SSN is XXX-XX-XXXX. This change is a result of marriage.”
Body – Paragraph 2: Substantiating Documentation
- Clearly state the documentation you are including to validate the name change.
- Acceptable documents encompass a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
- Specify each document explicitly. “Enclosed, please find a copy of my marriage certificate as evidence of this name change.”
- Refrain from sending original documents. Certified copies are preferable.
Body – Paragraph 3: Current Address and Contact Information
- Provide your current mailing address. The IRS needs this to update their records and communicate with you.
- Include both your physical address and a valid phone number.
- Example: “My current mailing address is 123 Main Street, Anytown, USA. My contact number is (555) 123-4567.”
- Indicate if your address has also changed, emphasizing that you’re updating both name and address.
Closing: Express Gratitude and Anticipation
- Conclude the letter with a polite and professional closing.
- Express gratitude for their attention to the matter.
- Indicate your willingness to provide further information, should it be required.
- Employ phrases such as “Thank you for your time and consideration” or “I appreciate your prompt attention to this matter.”
Signature and Enclosures: Final Touches
- Sign the letter using your new legal name.
- Print your new legal name beneath your signature for clarity.
- Before mailing, meticulously review the letter and all enclosures.
- Ensure all copies are legible. Compile a list of enclosed documents for your records.
- Mail the letter via certified mail with return receipt requested, allowing you to track its delivery and receipt by the IRS. Retain the receipt for your archives.
Frequently Asked Questions: Requesting a Name Change with the IRS
Changing your name requires notifying various entities, including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This FAQ provides guidance on submitting a formal request for a name change to the IRS.
Here are answers to common questions regarding the process:
What documents are required to notify the IRS of a name change?
You must submit Form 8822, Change of Address, along with documentation substantiating the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Where should I mail my name change request?
Mail Form 8822 and accompanying documentation to the address listed on the form instructions corresponding to your state of residence.
How long does it take for the IRS to process a name change request?
Processing times vary, but it generally takes several weeks to a few months for the IRS to update their records after receiving your request.
Do I need to notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) before notifying the IRS?
Yes, it is recommended to first update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA) to ensure consistency across government records.
What if I file taxes jointly? Does my spouse also need to submit a name change request?
Yes, if both spouses are changing their names, each individual needs to submit a separate Form 8822 and supporting documentation.
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