I just completed the online application process and have placed it in hold status. One question I don't understand - why do they need the birth last names of my current and former spouse? These are not the names on their SS records. I'm concerned this could cause a mismatch and produce a delay later when my spouse files a restricted application for spousal benefits. My spouse did not change her name when we married and continues to use her last name from a previous marriage. The name I used in the application for spouse information does not match mine or her current last name. Will this be a problem or should I use her name as it appears on her record. Your software is great - helped me confirm my filing strategy. Thanks!

Hi,

Social Security uses the information about marriages that's solicited on their application forms primarily to determine if additional benefits are possible. In other words, Social Security uses your marital history to determine if you could be entitled to additional benefits on a current or former spouse's record, or if a current or former spouse could qualify for spousal benefits on your record.

Social Security asks for the spouse's name at birth because that's typically the name they would have been using when they originally were assigned a Social Security number. I don't think that a spousal name mismatch in the marital history of your application would cause any real problems. If anything, Social Security might ask you for a clarification if the mismatch creates confusion.

Best, Jerry