How to Change your Legal Name
Congratulations on your Marriage, Divorce, transition, or new you!
If you got your name legally changed, you will need to update the name DoD and VA has in their systems. Unfortunately… there is no simple one stop process.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
These instructions can be followed by BOTH the Veteran and their dependents.
Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS)
Call the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) at 800-538-9552 or if you have hearing loss, call 866-363-2883. Tell them you need to update your name and they will give you additional instructions.
Updating the VA
You will need to contact and send the following to EACH arm of the VA to have your name updated. If you do not/have not used the arm then you do NOT have to send them anything.
Required documentation:
A letter requesting that your VA benefit records be updated with your new legal name, AND
A copy of your unexpired government-issued photo ID (like a passport or driver’s license) that shows your date of birth and your new or old legal name.
If your name change is because of marriage, divorce, or an annulment ALSO include:
A copy of your marriage certificate, or
A copy of your divorce or annulment decree.
If your name change is for any other reason (NOT because of marriage, divorce, or an annulment) ALSO include:
A copy of your Social Security card with your new legal name, or
A copy of a court order showing your name change.
VA Disability
Mail:
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 5235
Janesville, WI 53547-5235
Education (Does NOT Include VR&E)
Online: QuickSubmit portal
Home Loans and Housing Programs
Mail to your regional loan center.
Click HERE to find the office and address.
Life Insurance
Mail to the office running the life insurance program.
Click HERE to find the office and address.
Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E)
Mail:
VR&E Intake Center
PO Box 5210
Janesville, WI 53547-5210