How to change your name at Chase

Chase requires you to submit a legal name change document and a government-issued ID that matches your new name. You can do this in person at any Chase branch, by mail, or online through your Chase account if your state's records have already updated. The fastest route is a branch visit with both documents in hand — the teller can process it on the spot, and your accounts update within one to three business days.

If you're changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you'll need the specific document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Chase will not accept a name change petition or application — they need the final, official document. If you don't have it yet, contact your county clerk's office or the court that issued the order.

Online changes work only if your state's vital records database has already recorded your new name. Chase pulls from these databases automatically in some cases, but the timing varies by state. If you try to update online and it doesn't work, you'll need to use the branch or mail method instead.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring your legal name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) and a government ID showing your new name to any Chase branch to change your name in person.
  • In-person changes at a branch usually update your accounts within one to three business days.
  • Mail-in changes require the same documents sent to Chase's address, and processing takes one to two weeks after they receive your envelope.
  • Online changes only work if your state's vital records system has already recorded your new name, which can take weeks or months after the legal change.
  • Chase will not accept a name change petition or application — only the final official document proving the change.

Changing your name in person at a Chase branch

Walk into any Chase branch with your legal name change document and a government-issued ID that shows your new name. The ID must be current and match the name on your legal document. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. The teller will verify both documents, update your account records, and issue you a new debit card if you request one.

The update applies to all accounts linked to your Social Security number at that branch — checking, savings, credit cards, and loans. You don't need to visit multiple branches or call separately for each account. Within one to three business days, your name will appear on statements, online banking, and any new cards Chase sends you.

If you don't have your government ID updated yet, you can still change your name at the branch using your legal document plus an older ID that shows your previous name. Chase will accept this combination, though some branches may ask you to return with an updated ID later. Call ahead to confirm your local branch's policy if you're unsure.

Changing your name by mail

Send your legal name change document and a copy of your government-issued ID to Chase's address for name changes. You can find the specific mailing address by calling Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935 or checking your account statements, which sometimes list a processing address. Include a letter stating your old name, new name, and account numbers you want updated.

Processing takes one to two weeks after Chase receives your envelope. Mail delivery itself adds three to five business days, so plan for two to three weeks total from the time you drop it in the mail. Chase will send you a confirmation letter once the change is complete, and your new debit card will arrive separately.

Keep a copy of everything you send. If Chase doesn't receive your envelope or loses a document, you'll need proof of what you submitted. Send your documents via certified mail with return receipt if you want confirmation that Chase received them.

Changing your name online through your Chase account

Log into your Chase account and look for a profile or account settings section. Some Chase accounts allow you to update your name directly if your state's vital records database has already recorded the change. Chase pulls from these databases automatically in certain states, but the timing varies — it can take weeks or months after your legal change is recorded.

If the online option appears in your account, you'll upload a photo of your legal name change document and government ID. Chase will review these and send you a confirmation email once the change is complete. If the online option doesn't appear, it means your state's records haven't updated yet or Chase doesn't offer online changes for your account type.

Don't assume the online method will work just because you see a name change option. Test it first, and if it fails or doesn't appear, use the branch or mail method instead. Waiting for your state's records to update can delay your account change by weeks.

What documents Chase will and won't accept

Chase accepts a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order as proof of a legal name change. These documents must be official copies issued by the county clerk, court, or vital records office — not photocopies you made yourself. If you have a certified copy (marked "certified" by the issuing office), that's ideal, but an uncertified official copy usually works too.

Chase will not accept a name change petition, application, or letter from an attorney. They will not accept a Social Security card showing your new name. They will not accept a driver's license alone without a legal document backing it up. The legal document must come first; the ID just confirms you have it.

If you're changing your name through a court order but don't have a certified copy yet, contact the court clerk's office that issued the order. They can provide one, usually for a small fee ($5 to $25 depending on the court). This is faster than waiting for it to arrive by mail from the vital records office.

Timeline for name changes across your Chase accounts

In-person changes at a branch update within one to three business days. Your checking and savings accounts update first, followed by credit cards and loans. You may see the change in online banking before your physical debit card arrives.

Mail-in changes take one to two weeks after Chase receives your envelope, plus three to five business days for mail delivery. Total time is usually two to three weeks. Certified mail adds a few days but gives you proof of delivery.

Online changes update immediately if they go through, but they only work if your state's vital records have already recorded your new name. If your state hasn't updated yet, the online method will fail and you'll need to use the branch or mail method instead.

During the update period, your old name may still appear on statements, checks, or temporary cards. This is normal. Once the update completes, all new documents will show your new name. If you need checks or cards with your new name urgently, ask the branch teller to rush them when you submit your documents in person.

What happens to your accounts and cards during the change

Your account numbers don't change — only the name associated with them. Your routing number, account numbers, and all automatic payments stay the same. If you have direct deposit set up, it continues without interruption. If you have automatic bill payments, they continue as well.

Your debit card number may change. Chase will send you a new card with your new name, and your old card will stop working once the new one arrives. The timing varies, but usually the new card arrives within five to seven business days. If you need your card urgently, ask the branch teller if they can issue a temporary card or expedite the new one.

Credit cards linked to your account update to show your new name, but the card number usually stays the same. Loan accounts update to show your new name without changing your loan terms or payment schedule. If you have a joint account with another person, only your name changes — the other person's name and account access remain unchanged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to update my Social Security card before I change my name with Chase?

No. Chase only requires a government-issued ID and your legal name change document. You can update your Social Security card after you change your name at Chase, or before — the order doesn't matter. However, updating your Social Security card first makes it easier to get a new driver's license, which then makes the Chase change simpler.

What if I'm changing my name but don't have a government ID with my new name yet?

You can still change your name at Chase using your legal document plus an older ID showing your previous name. Some branches may ask you to return with an updated ID later, so call ahead to confirm. The branch teller can tell you whether your location will accept this combination.

Can I change my name on a joint account without the other person's permission?

No. If the account is joint, both owners must consent to any name changes. You'll need to visit the branch together or have the other owner sign a power of attorney. If you're the only owner on the account, you can change your name alone.

How long does it take for my new debit card to arrive after I change my name?

Usually five to seven business days. If you need your card faster, ask the branch teller whether they can expedite it or issue a temporary card. Some branches can print a temporary card on the spot, though it may have limitations on where you can use it.

Will changing my name affect my credit score or credit history?

No. Your credit history stays attached to your Social Security number, not your name. Changing your name at Chase does not affect your credit score, credit report, or any loans or credit cards you have. Your credit history follows you regardless of what name appears on your accounts.