To change your name on your Fidelity accounts, update your name with the Social Security Administration first, then submit the Fidelity name change form online or on paper with a copy of a government ID showing your new legal name. The online tool handles most individual accounts in a few minutes. The paper form covers everything else, including 529 plans, ABLE accounts, and custodial accounts. Either way, Fidelity updates every account tied to your taxpayer ID at once, with one exception: employer-sponsored plans like a workplace 401(k).
Update Social Security First
Fidelity reports your investment income to the IRS using the name and taxpayer ID on your account. If the name at Fidelity does not match SSA records, the mismatch can delay your tax refund or trigger an IRS notice.1Internal Revenue Service. IRS Tax Tip: What You Should Know if You Changed Your Name Some applicants can request the SSA change online; others schedule an appointment and bring legal proof such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order along with an identity document.2Social Security Administration. Change Name with Social Security The replacement card arrives by mail within about five to ten business days after processing.
Once SSA reflects your new name, update your driver’s license or passport. You will need that updated government ID for Fidelity regardless of which method you choose.
Change Your Name Online
Log in to Fidelity, go to the Name Change page, and enter your new name exactly as it appears on your updated government ID. Fidelity texts a link to the mobile number on your profile. Follow the link, upload a photo of your ID, and take a selfie so Fidelity can verify your identity. Return to your browser to finish.3Fidelity. How to Update the Name on Your Accounts
This method only works if you already have a mobile number on your Fidelity profile. If you don’t, add one first or use the paper form.
Fill Out the Paper Name Change Form
Download the “Name Change” PDF from scs.fidelity.com. Submit two things together: the completed form and a copy of a valid government ID (driver’s license or passport) showing your new name.4Fidelity. Name Change
The form is short. Section 1 asks for your former name (first, middle initial, last), your taxpayer identification number, your new name (first, middle, last), and the reason for the change: marriage, divorce, or other. A checkbox lets you request a new debit card with your updated name. Section 2 is the signature block. Sign using your new name and date the form.4Fidelity. Name Change
You do not list individual account numbers. Fidelity applies the change to every account linked to your taxpayer ID, except employer-sponsored plans.
Accounts With Check-Writing Privileges
If any of your Fidelity accounts have check-writing ability, even if you have never actually written a check, you also need to complete a separate Checkwriting form and attach it to your name change paperwork. Every account owner with check-writing privileges on that account signs the Checkwriting form, even if only one person’s name changed.4Fidelity. Name Change The Checkwriting form requires supporting documentation such as a copy of a marriage certificate or divorce decree.5Fidelity. Checkwriting Information and Terms File a separate Checkwriting form for each account with the feature.
Who Signs for 529, ABLE, and Custodial Accounts
A few account types have different signature rules:
- 529 education savings accounts: to change the beneficiary’s (student’s) name, the account owner signs, not the beneficiary.
- ABLE accounts: the person with signature authority signs. If no one holds that role, the designated beneficiary signs.
- Custodial accounts (UGMA/UTMA): the custodian signs to change the minor’s name.
These rules are printed on the form itself, so read the instructions before signing.4Fidelity. Name Change
Workplace 401(k) and 403(b) Plans Are Separate
A 401(k) or 403(b) managed through Fidelity is not covered by the standard name change form or the online tool. Those accounts are administered under your employer’s plan, so log in to NetBenefits.Fidelity.com or contact your plan sponsor to request the update.4Fidelity. Name Change A name change on your individual accounts will not carry over to your workplace plan; they are processed separately.
Submit the Paper Form
Fidelity recommends digital upload for faster processing. Scan or photograph the completed, signed form along with your government ID, then submit the files at Fidelity.com/upload-Name or scan the QR code printed on the form.4Fidelity. Name Change Make sure every page of the form and both sides of your ID are legible.
If you cannot upload, check Fidelity.com/customer-service/mailing-address for current mailing instructions and use a trackable shipping method so you have confirmation of delivery.
After Your Name Is Updated
Once Fidelity processes the change, you receive an email confirmation with links to reorder your debit card and checks with your new name. Your existing checks and debit card remain valid during the transition, so you are not locked out of your money while waiting for replacements.3Fidelity. How to Update the Name on Your Accounts
Take a few minutes to review your beneficiary designations. A name change does not alter who inherits your accounts, but if the change stems from a divorce, you may want to update those designations anyway. Also confirm your new name and Social Security number match across your Fidelity profile, your SSA records, and your most recent tax return so your 1099s generate without issue.6Internal Revenue Service. Name Changes and Social Security Number Matching Issues