Name change issues

[tinypyramids 0]

My wife and I recently got married on our K-1 and we're now in the process of changing her name. In my state, Illinois, womens' name changes are automatic and she can start using the new name immediately if desired. However, when she went to the local social security office to get a new social security card (she had a number from a previous visa), they refused and said that she should file for AOS first BEFORE getting her name changed on the card. This could potentially be problematic when applying for things like credit cards, bank accounts, jobs after getting EAD, etc. which would require the use of her SSN.

Some questions:

1) Can she file for AOS with her new last name without having the new name on the social security card?

2) This is Illinois specific, but can she get her new state ID without the new social security card?

3) Is there a way to get around the social security office's denial for a name change? Maybe by going to a different branch?

[tinypyramids 0]

Anyone?