Reviewed guide | 2026-10-11
Changed your surname? Updating exchange identity verification in South Africa
Marriage, divorce or other legal changes can leave your exchange account name out of step with your new documents. A guide for South Africans on updating verified details without losing access or triggering long reviews.
Multiple exchanges | South Africa | ZAR | fees, access and account safety
You verified your exchange account years ago with your old ID, then your surname changed after marriage or another legal process. At first nothing seems wrong. Then a bank transfer is returned because the account name does not match, or a new verification step asks for a document that shows your new name. Exchanges handle name changes in different ways, and some treat them as a full re-verification. The official help centre of your platform has the exact process. This guide explains the general preparation that makes the update smoother, and the mistakes that tend to cause delays.
Get your new documents in order first
Before contacting the exchange, make sure your updated identity document is issued and in hand, whether that is a new smart ID card, a green ID book or a passport in your new name. Exchanges generally verify against an official document, not a marriage certificate alone. It also helps to have the supporting document that links your old and new names, because a reviewer may ask for it to confirm you are the same person. Keep clear scans of each.
Find the official update path
Search the help centre for terms such as changing your name or updating verified information. Some platforms let you start this from the identity section of the account settings, while others ask you to open a support ticket. Follow whichever route the help centre describes, from inside the app or official website. Avoid creating a second account in your new name, since duplicate accounts usually break the terms and can lead to both being restricted.
Align your bank details too
If you fund your account by bank transfer, the name on your bank account should also match your verified exchange name. Update the bank first or at the same time, otherwise deposits may be returned or held for review. Keep a note of when each institution confirmed the change. Mismatched names across your bank and exchange are a common reason for delayed deposits, and having the dates written down makes support conversations much quicker.
Expect a review and plan around it
A name update often triggers a manual review, and some functions such as withdrawals may be limited until it finishes. Avoid starting the process right before you need to move funds. During the review, reply only through the official support channel, and never share your password or verification codes with anyone who messages you claiming to help. When the update is complete, check that the new name appears correctly in your profile and on statements you export.
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Scenario checkpoint
- Obtaining the new ID document before asking the exchange to update your verified name.
- Keeping the document that links the old and new names ready for a possible review.
- Updating the bank account name so deposits do not bounce because of a name mismatch.
- Starting the update when no urgent withdrawal is planned in the following weeks.
Digital assets are volatile and derivatives can amplify losses. This website has no login, wallet connection, deposit form or customer-support chat.