When I was 9 years old, my father died. My mother remarried a year later, and I assumed my stepfather's last name. I don't know if my parents changed my name legally, but I have exclusively used that last name since then. All of my employment years and withholding payment years have been with my step-father's last name. Will my name change as a 10 year old have any effect when I apply for SS retirement benefits this year?

Hi,

It shouldn't. Your Social Security earnings are posted based on your Social Security number, not your name. You may need to submit proof of your age & identity to Social Security, but that shouldn't be too difficult.

Best, Jerry