How to Change Your Name with a Deed Poll

Looking to change your name?

Ordering a deed poll is the quick and easy way to change your name.

In this article we are going to break down the process for changing your name with a deed poll and answer some of the most common questions about the name change process. 

If you don't have any questions and you want to get started on your deed poll order, click the button here:

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What is a Deed Poll?

Simply put a deed poll is a document that shows that you’ve started using a new name.

You can use a deed poll to update your name on important documents like your passport, driving licence, with your employer for payroll, etc.

A deed poll demonstrates the following:

• That you’ve started using a new name
• That you’ve given up your old name
• The date you started using your new name

Do I Need a Deed Poll to Change My Name?

Whether you need a deed poll depends on why and how you want to change your name.

When you don’t need a deed poll

You don’t need a deed poll when another official document proves your new name, such as after a marriage or divorce.

After Marriage:

You don’t need a deed poll if:

• Your marriage was finalized in the UK.
• Your marriage certificate shows both your maiden name and your new surname.

After Divorce:

You don’t need a deed poll if:

• Your divorce is finalized.
• Both your marriage and divorce took place in the UK.
• You have your decree absolute.

When you would need a deed poll 

Generally, you’ll need a deed poll for most name changes unless it’s after a marriage or divorce. For instance, you’ll need a deed poll if you want to change your name because:

• You don’t like your current name.
• You want to identify with a different culture or religion.
• You have undergone a gender change.

A deed poll can also be useful if:

• You’ve lost your marriage certificate.
• Your marriage certificate is in another language.

Instead of replacing or translating your marriage certificate, getting a deed poll can be easier and cheaper.

So now that you know what a deed poll is and when you would need one, let’s learn about the simple application process.

Applying for a Deed Poll

The easiest way to order a deed poll is by following these 3 easy steps:

1. Complete the online application

Fill out our easy and secure online deed poll application form here. You'll need to provide your personal details accurately. You can pay using our secure payment system with your debit card, credit card, or Paypal.

2. Receive your deed poll and certified copies

If you order before 3 PM (Mon-Fri), we will process your application the same day and dispatch your deed poll within two working days, along with any certified copies you’ve ordered.

3. Get witnesses and certified copies

Finally, you will need two witnesses to sign your deed poll.  

We will send a document along with your Deed Poll that will show you how to execute (have the witnesses sign) your Deed Poll so that your change of name becomes fully valid.

And that’s all it takes.

You now have all you need to officially change your name with any official organization. 

Remember that you may need to update various institutions with your new name, and some may require a notarized copy or additional paperwork.

You will also likely need to provide your signature on multiple documents to finalize the name change across different services.

PRO TIP: If you are not sure who to inform about your name change or what documents they will need (in addition to your deed poll), you should use our name change kit.

Who can act as a witness when I sign my deed poll? 

Here are the criteria for a witness (the instructions will be included when you receive the deed poll):

• Must be a UK resident above the age of 18
• They must know who you are
• The witness must be independent of you (not your partner, relative, roommate, etc.)
• They must have the adequate mental capacity to make their own decisions
• Witness has to be present to....well, witness you signing the deed poll

So, it could be someone like your friend, neighbor, or coworker, as long as they meet the criteria above. 

How old do I have to be to change my name via deed poll?

You can change your name with a deed poll if you’re 16 years of age or older.

If you’re over the age of 16, but not yet 18, your guardians can override your decision for a name change under special circumstances (not just because they don’t like your name).

But if they do succeed in getting a court to decide against your new name, you’ll have to wait till you’re 18.

If you’re under 16, you can have your name changed by a parent or guardian, as long as all guardians agree with the decision and the necessary documentation is provided.

How many deed poll copies do I need? 

There is no set number of copies that is recommended. But keep in mind that each record you update might require a certified copy of your deed poll. For most people, around ten additional certified copies of their deed poll turns out to be sufficient.

We hope you found our deed poll guide helpful!

If you have additional questions check out our deed poll FAQ section below.

Deed Poll FAQs

How much does your deed poll cost? 

The cost of the deed poll application is £18.50. 

We’ve issued thousands of deed polls, and we guarantee that our deed polls will be accepted at all government and private institutions as evidence of your new name. Otherwise, you get your money back, 100% guaranteed!

Who do I need to inform after a name change?

We will send you a thorough list of the organizations who you will need to send a deed poll to.  

For now here’s a list of the most common:

• HM Passport Office
• HM Land Registry (if you own property)
• DVLA for driving license
• The local council for taxes and benefits
• Department of work and pensions – for benefits
• HM Customs and Revenue – for tax matters
• Your employer
• Banks
• Pension providers and retirement accounts
• Your mortgage company
• Credit card providers

How long does it take to change my name? 

As long as you order your deed poll before 3 PM on a working day (Mon-Fri), we will send you the deed poll document and any certified copies within two business days by First Class Post.

Then you’ll have to get together with your witnesses and execute the deed poll.

Finally, you’ll have to make a list of all the official documents and institutions that you have to update with your new name. This is typically the most time-consuming part of the process.
Of course you can always use our name change kit to greatly speed up the process.

Are there any restrictions for changing my name

There are a few restrictions on the names you can choose. Here are some things to consider when selecting a new name via deed poll.

• You can't pick an offensive or vulgar name
• You can’t pick a new name for fraudulent purposes
• Your new name can't promote any criminal activities 
• You can't choose a racial slur as your new name, or anything that mocks certain groups or institutions
• Your name can't have any numbers, symbols, or made-up punctuations in your name
• Your name can only contain Latin characters
• If you're picking a title, it has to be a British accepted title (Mr, Mrs, Miss, Ms, and Mx)

You should also avoid making any political statements, or use a group of words that aren't usually considered to be a name, to avoid complications when updating your passport, driving license, etc.