If you were married or divorced recently, there are a couple of things you�ll want to do to ensure the name on your tax return matches the name registered with the Social Security Administration.

If a taxpayer takes their spouse�s last name or if both spouses hyphenate their last names, they may run into complications if they don�t notify the SSA. If the newlyweds file a tax return using their new last names, IRS computers would not be able to match the new name with their Social Security Number.

After a divorce, taxpayers who change back to their previous last name also need to notify the SSA of the change.

Informing the SSA of a name change is quite simple. File a Form SS-5 at your local SSA office. The form is available on SSA�s Web site at www.socialsecurity.gov, by calling 800-772-1213 or at local offices. It usually takes about two weeks to have the change verified.

Taxpayers who adopt their spouse�s child after getting married will want to make sure the children have an SSN. Taxpayers must provide SSNs for each dependent claimed on a tax return. For adopted children without SSNs, the parents can apply for an Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number � or ATIN � by filing Form W-7A, Application for Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions with the IRS. The ATIN is a temporary number used in place of an SSN on the tax return. The W-7A is available on the IRS Web site, IRS.gov, or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).