Life Events Abroad & Social Security: How to Report Marriage, Divorce, Birth, and Death

Purpose and who must report

If you live outside the United States and receive (or may become eligible for) Social Security benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) expects you to report life events that can change your record or your entitlement. Four events are the most common and the most consequential: marriage, divorce, birth, and death. Reporting promptly protects you against overpayments, ensures that new benefits start on time, keeps your tax and payment information accurate, and helps SSA communicate with you or your family when rules change.

This guide explains what to prepare, where to submit evidence while abroad, and what to expect after you report each event. It focuses on practical steps that work in most countries and for both U.S. citizens and non-citizens who interact with SSA from overseas.

How to report from outside the United States

Primary channel: the Federal Benefits Unit (FBU)

Outside the U.S., SSA service is provided through Federal Benefits Units (FBUs) located in selected U.S. embassies and consulates. An FBU can accept your report, review evidence, certify copies when appropriate, and forward materials to the SSA’s international operations center for action. Find the FBU that serves your country on the “Service Around the World” page of the U.S. Embassy or SSA website for your region. Many FBUs now require appointments and communicate by secure webform or email before you visit in person.

Alternate channel: mail or courier to SSA’s international operations

When an FBU is distant or appointments are limited, you may ship your packet by trackable courier to the Office of Earnings & International Operations (OEIO) in the United States. Use a carrier that offers tracking and keep a copy of everything you send. If you must send original civil documents, ask the FBU or OEIO in advance about certification options so that your originals can be returned safely.

Evidence rules that matter everywhere

• Originals or agency-certified copies: SSA generally accepts originals or certified copies issued by the custodian of record. Notarized photocopies are usually not acceptable. FBUs can often make “true certified” copies after sighting the original.
• Translations: If your documents are not in English, include a certified translation that identifies the translator and affirms accuracy. Many FBUs can advise on local translation standards.
• Apostille/legalization: Some foreign civil documents are issued with an apostille under the Hague Convention; others use consular legalization. SSA does not require an apostille in every case, but an apostille or legalization can make authenticity clear and speed review.
• Identity and SSN: Include a scan of your passport biographic page, your SSN or claim number, your physical and mailing addresses abroad, and a phone number or email where SSA or the FBU can reach you.

What changes when you report marriage

Marriage can affect your name, your benefit category (for example, entitlement to spousal benefits), and—in some cases—your payment eligibility outside the U.S. The impact depends on whose record you are claiming on, your age, your work history, whether you or your spouse are U.S. citizens, and where you both live. Even when you do not expect a benefit change, you should still report a marriage so SSA can update your record and avoid identity mismatches with banks or tax authorities.

Evidence to include for a marriage reported from abroad

• Marriage certificate issued by the civil authority (or a certified copy). If the certificate is religious, include the civil registration that gives it legal effect in your country.
• Passports or national IDs of both spouses (bio pages), or other identity evidence requested by the FBU.
• Certified translation into English if the document is not bilingual.
• Name change documentation if your legal name changed and you want the SSA record updated. Outside the U.S., this is usually handled with an application to update your Social Security card (Form SS-5 or the overseas variant) through the FBU, along with proof of the new legal name and identity.

Special points for marriages outside the U.S.

• Validity rules: SSA evaluates whether a marriage is valid for benefit purposes under applicable law. As a practical matter, if the marriage is valid where celebrated and there is no public-policy bar where you reside, SSA can usually treat it as valid for entitlement. Keep copies of any local law citations the FBU requests.
• Same-sex marriages: SSA recognizes valid same-sex marriages for benefit purposes. If local authorities refuse to issue records, ask the FBU about alternative evidence and how to document barriers.
• Bank and tax alignment: If your legal name changes, update your bank account name for international direct deposit (IDD) and any foreign tax authority records to prevent payment rejections.

What changes when you report divorce

Divorce can end some entitlements (such as spousal benefits tied to a current marriage) and open others (such as divorced spouse or divorced widow(er) benefits when statutory conditions are met). Even if your own benefit is on your work record and seems unaffected, you should still report a divorce to align names and prevent payment errors.

Evidence to include for a divorce reported from abroad

• Final divorce decree (or foreign judgment of dissolution) issued by the civil court with date the divorce became final. Include a certified translation if necessary.
• Proof of prior marriage if SSA has not already recorded it (sometimes needed to index the decree to your file).
• Identity evidence (passport) and updated contact details abroad.

Entitlement notes that often matter

• Divorced spouse benefits: If you were married long enough and meet age and marital-status requirements, you may claim on an ex-spouse’s record even if they have not yet claimed, provided additional conditions are met. Reporting the divorce is the first step; an FBU will advise on eligibility and forms.
• Name change after divorce: If you revert to a prior legal name, request an SSN card update through the FBU with evidence of the legal name and identity. Keep your bank informed so IDD payments are not rejected.
• Residence rules outside the U.S.: Certain dependents who are not U.S. citizens face alien non-payment restrictions when living outside the U.S.; exceptions exist by treaty and for specific categories. The FBU will check these rules when your entitlement changes.

What changes when you report a birth abroad

A birth can affect entitlement in two ways: (1) the newborn may need a Social Security Number (SSN) for tax, medical, or immigration processes, and (2) the child may qualify for auxiliary benefits on a parent’s record (for example, a minor child of a retired, disabled, or deceased worker). If you receive U.S. benefits, you should notify SSA of a new dependent even if you do not yet plan to claim benefits for the child. This helps SSA apply the proper family maximum rules and prevents later back-pay complications.

Evidence to include for a birth reported from abroad

• Civil birth certificate issued by the local authority, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) if you obtained one from the U.S. embassy/consulate.
• Parents’ identity and relationship evidence (passports, marriage certificate if applicable, or acknowledgment/establishment of paternity documents when requested).
• Certified translation of any non-English certificate.

Getting an SSN for a child born outside the U.S.

Apply through the FBU with the appropriate application for a Social Security card, the child’s birth evidence (CRBA or foreign birth certificate), and parent identity documents. Many FBUs can take the application and return originals by secure courier after SSA records the number. If you must mail documents, use a trackable service and retain copies.

Claiming child’s benefits while abroad

If a parent receives retirement or disability benefits—or dies while insured—the child may be entitled to monthly payments. The FBU will screen for eligibility, explain residency restrictions that apply to some non-U.S. citizen children outside the U.S., and take the claim forms. Because family maximum rules may limit the total payable to dependents, report the birth even if you will not claim immediately; SSA needs to know the child exists.

What changes when you report a death abroad

Reporting a death is time-sensitive because ongoing benefits for the deceased must stop, and survivors may need to file claims. Banks engaged in international direct deposit are required to return payments issued for the month of death and any later months. Prompt reporting prevents overpayment and speeds survivor processing.

Who can report

Family members, legal representatives, or local authorities can report a death to the FBU or directly to SSA. In many countries, the U.S. embassy or consulate also issues a report of death of a U.S. citizen abroad based on local records; this document is valuable for U.S. administrative tasks but you should also provide the local civil death certificate whenever possible.

Evidence to include for a death reported from abroad

• Local death certificate (original or custodian-certified copy) with English translation if needed.
• Proof of the decedent’s identity and SSN (passport copy if available, or other identifiers such as full name, date and place of birth, last known address, claim number, and bank account used for benefits).
• Contact information for the survivor or representative handling affairs, including mailing address and bank details for any future survivor benefits (do not send bank passwords or cards).

Payments after death

Monthly Social Security benefits are not payable for the month the beneficiary dies. If a payment arrives for that month or any later month, the bank should return it automatically. Do not withdraw or spend those funds. If an overpayment occurs, cooperate with the FBU to resolve it quickly; survivor claims can be delayed while overpayments are outstanding.

Survivor benefits outside the U.S.

Eligible survivors—spouse, divorced spouse in certain cases, and minor or disabled children—can file for monthly benefits and, in limited cases, a lump-sum death payment. The FBU will screen eligibility, check any residence-based payment restrictions, and collect the required evidence (marriage, divorce, birth, adoption, or disability records). If multiple survivors live in different countries, it is still useful to centralize communication through the FBU serving the country where the decedent resided; they will coordinate with other FBUs as needed.

Building a complete packet: checklists and structure

Universal cover letter

Every packet you send should start with a short cover letter. Include your full name, SSN or claim number, date of birth, country of residence, phone and email, and a crisp description of the event you are reporting. Add a numbered list of the enclosed documents. If you need originals returned, say so plainly and provide a prepaid return envelope if local postal rules allow.

Suggested document matrix

Security and return of originals

When you must submit original documents, confirm with the FBU how they will be returned. Many FBUs return originals by registered diplomatic mail or a commercial courier. Write your name and a local phone number on the back of each document sleeve and use protective covers to prevent damage. Keep high-resolution scans of everything you send.

Timing, confirmations, and follow-through

• Report as soon as possible. There is no advantage to waiting; for deaths and entitlement-ending divorces, delays often create overpayments. For marriages and births, early reporting ensures new benefits can start as soon as you are eligible.
• Request a receipt. If you visit an FBU, ask for a confirmation slip or a reference number. If you submit by courier, keep the tracking number and email the FBU a PDF set of your documents with the courier receipt so they can match the physical packet on arrival.
• Expect follow-up questions. International cases sometimes require additional local records (for example, a family book or household registry). Respond quickly and ask whether the FBU can accept certified copies instead of originals for the extra items.
• Monitor your payments. After SSA acts on your report, verify that your monthly payment changed as expected. For IDD, check that the bank did not reject a payment because your legal name changed.

Name, address, and bank updates related to life events

Life events abroad often coincide with practical updates: a spouse’s name change, a move to a new address, or a switch to a different bank. Send these updates together where possible so that your record is consistent across all fields.

• Name changes: Use the SSN card application process through the FBU with proof of the legal name change and evidence of identity. For benefits recipients, the FBU can flag both the card and the payment record so IDD continues smoothly.
• Address changes: Provide both your physical address (where you live) and a secure mailing address. Some countries require a local mobile number for courier delivery; include it on the cover sheet.
• Bank changes (IDD): If marriage or divorce changes the name on your account, coordinate with your bank first, then submit the new routing/account details on the FBU’s IDD form to avoid rejected payments.

Country-specific complications and how to handle them

• Civil records issued at the municipal level only: Provide the municipal certificate and, if available, a national registry extract that confirms it. Ask the FBU which version they can certify quickly.
• No English translation services nearby: FBUs keep lists of translators or standards for self-certification. When self-certifying, the translator should state their name, contact, language qualifications, and that the translation is complete and accurate.
• Religious marriages without civil registration: In jurisdictions where a religious ceremony does not create a civil marriage, obtain the civil registration first; SSA typically needs the civil record to change entitlement.
• Multiple surname conventions: If the country uses double-surname formats or non-Latin scripts, ensure that your passports, bank records, and SSA record use the same transliteration and order. Inconsistency is a common reason for payment rejection.
• Disrupted local services: When civil registries are closed or delayed (natural disaster, conflict, strike), ask the FBU about interim evidence they can accept and how to supplement later when offices reopen.

Sample cover letter (you can adapt and print)

To: Federal Benefits Unit – [City, Country]
Subject: Reporting [Marriage/Divorce/Birth/Death] for Social Security Record

My name is [Full Name], SSN/Claim Number: [XXX-XX-XXXX or BNC]. I reside at [Full Address, Country].
Phone/Email: [+CountryCode Phone] / [Email].

I am reporting the following event that occurred on [Date] in [City, Country]:
[Short one-sentence description.]

Enclosures:
1) [Document name] – original/custodian-certified copy with certified English translation.
2) [Document name] – copy.
3) Passport biographic page(s) for identification.
4) [Any additional evidence].

Please return any originals by [courier or registered mail] to the address above. If additional evidence is required, contact me by email.
Thank you for your assistance.
[Signature]
  

What happens after SSA updates your record

Once SSA processes your report, you will receive a notice explaining the decision and the month it becomes effective. For marriages and divorces, the notice will state whether your entitlement or payment amount changed. For births, you may receive an SSN card for the child by mail (if you applied) and a separate decision on any child’s benefits. For deaths, survivors receive separate notices about their claims and any adjustments involving the decedent’s payments.

Keep all notices with your civil records. If you later move countries or change banks, the notices help the next FBU or branch verify your history faster.

Conclusion

Living abroad does not change your responsibility to keep Social Security informed—and it does not prevent you from getting timely service. The key to smooth handling of marriage, divorce, birth, and death is preparation: assemble certified civil records, translate them clearly, and route everything through the Federal Benefits Unit that serves your country. Use a concise cover letter, ask for a receipt, and keep copies of your entire packet. Report quickly even if you think the event will not alter your monthly payment; the sooner SSA updates your file, the lower the risk of overpayment and the faster any new entitlement can begin.

This material is general information to help you interact effectively with SSA from outside the United States. It does not replace individualized advice from SSA, a qualified benefits representative, or an attorney familiar with cross-border Social Security issues. When in doubt—especially with complex family histories, name changes, adoptions, or residence restrictions—contact your FBU early and confirm exactly what they need before you ship originals.

FAQ

1) How do I report a life event from abroad—through the FBU or directly to SSA?

The fastest route is your country’s Federal Benefits Unit (FBU) at a U.S. embassy/consulate. Many FBUs take submissions by secure webform or appointment and can certify copies after seeing originals. If you cannot reach an FBU, send a tracked courier packet to SSA’s Office of Earnings & International Operations (OEIO) in the U.S. Include a cover sheet, your SSN/claim number, and a list of enclosures.

2) Will SSA accept scans or photocopies of foreign civil records?

SSA generally needs originals or custodian-certified copies. Ordinary photocopies or notarizations are usually not sufficient. FBUs can often make “true certified” copies after sighting the original, so you don’t have to mail your originals to the U.S.

3) Do I need an apostille or consular legalization?

Not always. SSA does not require an apostille in every case, but an apostille/legalization can speed authenticity checks. If your country issues apostilles easily, include one; otherwise the FBU can advise whether their certification of the original will suffice.

4) My documents are not in English—what translation standard is acceptable?

Provide a certified English translation that identifies the translator, their contact details, and a statement of completeness and accuracy. Some FBUs list local translators or provide formatting guidance. Bilingual civil records (local language + English) usually do not need an additional translation.

5) Can I change my legal name with SSA while overseas?

Yes. File an overseas SSN card application (via the FBU) with legal name-change evidence (e.g., marriage certificate or court order) plus proof of identity. Update your International Direct Deposit (IDD) bank account name so payments are not rejected.

6) How do I obtain an SSN for a child born abroad and can the child receive benefits?

Apply through the FBU with the child’s CRBA or local birth certificate, certified translation if needed, and parents’ IDs. If a parent is receiving retirement, disability, or survivor benefits, the child may qualify for auxiliary benefits. The FBU will screen eligibility and explain any residency-based restrictions for non-U.S. citizen children outside the U.S.

7) What happens if I report a marriage, divorce, birth, or death late?

Late reporting can cause overpayments (for events that end or reduce entitlement, e.g., divorce or death) or lost retroactive amounts (for events that create entitlement, e.g., birth or marriage in some cases). Report immediately; ask the FBU to confirm the effective month of any change so you can reconcile bank activity.

8) Does SSA recognize foreign and same-sex marriages for benefits?

SSA generally recognizes marriages that are valid where celebrated, including same-sex marriages. Provide the civil marriage certificate (plus translation if needed). If local authorities will not issue records, ask the FBU about acceptable alternative evidence.

9) Can non-U.S. citizen spouses or children be paid outside the United States?

Often yes, but some categories face alien non-payment restrictions unless a treaty or exception applies. The FBU will check work-credit rules, relationship requirements, and residency exceptions for your country before authorizing payments abroad.

10) For a death abroad, what happens to payments and how do survivors claim?

Benefits are not payable for the month of death, and banks must return any deposit for that month and later. Report the death to the FBU with the local death certificate (and, if issued, the embassy’s report of death). Eligible survivors can file for monthly benefits and, in limited cases, a lump-sum death payment; the FBU will list evidence needed (marriage/divorce records, children’s birth records, identity documents) and start the claim.

Technical / Legal Basis (English)

The guidance above is grounded in the Social Security Act, SSA regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), and the SSA Program Operations Manual System (POMS), with operational details for beneficiaries outside the United States handled by the Office of Earnings & International Operations (OEIO) and Federal Benefits Units (FBUs) at U.S. embassies/consulates.

Primary statutes (Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C.)

• § 402 — Benefit categories (retirement, spouse, divorced spouse, widow(er), child) and the lump-sum death payment (LSDP).
• § 405 — Evidence, records, and procedures (authority for SSA to require proof and develop facts).
• § 410–416 — Coverage, insured status, and definitions (including “child,” “widow(er),” and relationship provisions that interact with foreign civil status evidence).

Regulations (20 C.F.R., Part 404 — Title II)

• Subpart D & E — Entitlement conditions for spouses/divorced spouses, widow(er)s, and children (e.g., §§ 404.330–404.346 for spouse/divorced spouse; §§ 404.335–404.346 for widow(er); §§ 404.350–404.369 for child’s benefits).
• Subpart H (Evidence) — What evidence SSA requires and acceptable forms:
  • § 404.709 — Additional evidence when initial proof is insufficient.
  • § 404.720 — Evidence of a marriage (foreign or domestic civil records and acceptable alternatives).
  • § 404.728 — Evidence of divorce or annulment.
  • § 404.725 — Evidence of death.
  • §§ 404.716, 404.723, 404.730 — Evidence of name/age/relationship for children and parents (as applicable).
• Payments outside the U.S. — Alien non-payment and exceptions; interaction with international agreements (cross-references to Subpart T and POMS RS series).

POMS — Evidence, foreign records, and international operations

• GN 00301 — General evidence policy (what SSA accepts; originals vs. custodian-certified copies; when translations are required).
• GN 00305 — Evidence of marital relationships (validity of marriage where celebrated, proof standards, special issues in foreign records).
• GN 00306 — Relationship of child to worker; acceptable evidence and development in domestic and foreign cases.
• GN 00304 — Evidence of death (foreign death certificates; embassy “Report of Death” and how SSA evaluates it).
• GN 00307 — Use and requirements of English translations for foreign-language records (translator identity and accuracy statements).
• GN 00312 — Foreign evidence (how FBUs and OEIO develop, authenticate, or certify non-U.S. civil records).
• GN 017 — International (Totalization) agreements: routing, evidence exchange, and how agreements affect entitlement and payment abroad.
• RS 00202 — Spouse and divorced spouse benefits (entitlement factors, duration-of-marriage rules).
• RS 00207 — Widow(er) and surviving divorced spouse benefits (relationship and duration rules; effect of remarriage).
• RS 02610 — Alien non-payment provisions and exceptions for residence outside the U.S.; country-specific applicability.
• GN 02402 — International Direct Deposit (IDD): required bank data, name matching, and return of payments rules for banks.
• GN 02602 — Death reports and benefit termination: month of death non-payable and recovery/return of post-death payments.

POMS — SSN/card services while abroad

• RM 10205, RM 10211 — Evidence for an original or replacement SSN card (foreign births; CRBA vs. local birth certificates; parent identity).
• RM 10212 — Name change on the SSN record (marriage, divorce, or court order; proof of identity and legal name).
• RM 10210 — Identity evidence standards (acceptable passports/IDs; biographic data must match the requested SSN record).

Operational authorities and channels

• OEIO — Office of Earnings & International Operations (SSA component that processes most non-U.S. resident cases and coordinates with FBUs).
• Federal Benefits Units (FBUs) — Embassy/consulate sections that accept reports, sight originals, certify copies, and forward claims/evidence to SSA.

Compliance Note

This information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney–client relationship. It is not a substitute for consulting a qualified attorney or communicating directly with the Social Security Administration or your Federal Benefits Unit about your specific facts.