A “Sample Letter to IRS for Name Change” is a template. It helps you inform the IRS about a legal name change. People usually need this letter after a marriage, divorce, or court order.
Changing your name with the IRS is important. It ensures your tax records are accurate. We’ll share helpful sample letters.
These examples will guide you. You can easily adapt them to your specific situation. Get ready to simplify the process.
Sample Letter To Irs For Name Change
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Internal Revenue Service
[IRS Address]
[IRS City, State, Zip Code]
**Subject: Name Change Notification – [Your Social Security Number]**
Dear Internal Revenue Service,
This letter is to formally notify you of a change in my legal name. My previous name was [Your Previous Name], and my new legal name is [Your New Name].
This name change is due to [Reason for Name Change – e.g., marriage, divorce, court order].
Enclosed is a copy of [Supporting Documentation – e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order] as proof of this name change.
My Social Security number remains the same: [Your Social Security Number].
Please update your records to reflect my new legal name.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your New Name]
[Your Signature]
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How to Write Letter To IRS For Name Change
Subject Line: Clarity is Paramount
The subject line is your initial communiqué; make it count. It should be succinct and unambiguous.
- Specify: “Name Change Notification” or “Request to Update Name on IRS Records.”
- Include your Social Security Number (SSN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN) for expedited processing.
- Example: “Name Change Notification – SSN: XXX-XX-XXXX”
Salutation: A Polite Overture
Begin with a polite and professional greeting. Avoid colloquialisms.
- Use: “Dear Internal Revenue Service” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
- Avoid: “Hey IRS,” or informal greetings. Maintain decorum.
Introduction: State Your Purpose Concisely
Clearly articulate the reason for your correspondence in the introductory paragraph. Brevity is key.
- State your previous name and your new legal name.
- Mention that you are formally notifying the IRS of this change.
- Example: “I am writing to inform you of a legal name change from Jane Doe to Jane Smith.”
Body Paragraph 1: Elucidate the ‘Why’
Provide the rationale behind the name change and relevant supporting documentation.
- Specify the reason for the name change (e.g., marriage, divorce, court order).
- Indicate that supporting documentation is enclosed (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order).
- Example: “This change is a result of my recent marriage. Enclosed is a copy of my marriage certificate as corroboration.”
Body Paragraph 2: Essential Identifying Information
Include all pertinent identifying information to facilitate the update process. Don’t omit critical details.
- Provide your full legal name (both previous and new).
- Include your Social Security Number (SSN) or Employer Identification Number (EIN).
- State your current mailing address.
- Optional: Include your phone number for ease of contact, should the IRS require further clarification.
Closing: A Professional Farewell
Conclude with a professional closing, expressing gratitude for their attention to the matter.
- Use: “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” followed by your new legal name.
- Avoid: “Thanks,” or overly casual sign-offs.
- Example: “Sincerely, Jane Smith”
Enclosures: Documentation is Indispensable
Clearly list all enclosed documents to ensure transparency and prevent miscommunication.
- List each document included with the letter (e.g., “Copy of Marriage Certificate,” “Copy of Court Order”).
- Ensure each document is a clear, legible copy. Original documents should never be sent.
- This section serves as a checklist for both you and the IRS.
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Frequently Asked Questions: IRS Name Change Letter
Changing your name with the IRS requires proper notification. This FAQ addresses common questions regarding the process and content of a name change letter.
What information should I include in my name change letter to the IRS?
Your letter should include your full old name, full new name, Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), current address, a copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order (if applicable), and your signature.
Where should I send my name change letter and supporting documentation?
Mail your letter and supporting documentation to the Social Security Administration (SSA) first. Once your name is updated with the SSA, no further action is required with the IRS unless you’re self-employed or have employer identification number (EIN).
Do I need to notify the IRS directly if I’ve already updated my name with the Social Security Administration (SSA)?
Generally, no. The IRS typically receives name change information from the SSA. However, if you are self-employed or operate a business with an Employer Identification Number (EIN), you will need to notify the IRS separately.
What if I am self-employed or have an Employer Identification Number (EIN)?
If you are self-employed or operate a business with an EIN, file Form 8822-B, Change of Address or Responsible Party – Business, to notify the IRS of your name change.
Is there a specific IRS form for individual name changes?
No, there isn’t a specific form for individual name changes. Updating your name with the SSA is typically sufficient. Self-employed individuals or those with an EIN should use Form 8822-B.