How to Change Name on National Insurance Number?

***Please note: If you want to change your name before updating the HMRC records click the button below.

Changing your name is an important step, but ensuring your National Insurance number and related HMRC records are updated to reflect your new name is equally important.

Whether you're updating due to marital status, divorce, or another reason, your national insurance contributions are tied to your personal details, so HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) must have the correct records.

Step 1: Change Your Name Legally

Before you can update your National Insurance records, you must first legally change your name. In the UK, this is commonly done via a Deed Poll, which provides official proof of your legal name change.

Please note: If you want to change your name before updating the HMRC records, click the button below.

START ADULT DEED POLL

Learn more about how Deed Poll works and how to change your name legally.

Step 2: Notify HMRC

If you have already changed your name by Deed Poll, then no—you cannot change your National Insurance number itself (your NI number stays the same). However, you must notify HMRC of your change of name so that they can update your HMRC records, especially in relation to your national insurance contributions.

You can update your personal details using one of the following methods:

• Online process: Visit HMRC’s change of circumstances page and click “Report a change of name or address.”
• By phone: Call HMRC’s helpline at 0300 200 3500, Monday to Friday, 8 am–5 pm (except on bank holidays).
• By post: Send a completed form, a certified copy of your Deed Poll, and proof of ID (like your passport or driving licence) to HMRC.

What Details to Include

To ensure your HMRC update is processed quickly, make sure your submission includes the following details:

• Your full new name
• Your current NI number
• Your previous name (as listed on old records)
• Your address
• Your date of name change
• Supporting documents (e.g. Deed Poll, citizenship certificate, marriage certificate, passport, driver’s licence)

Your employer will also need to be informed so they can use your correct name when submitting future National Insurance contributions.

What About the National Insurance Card?

If you still have a National Insurance card, note that these are no longer issued. Instead, your NI number is used digitally. However, it’s still important that all records associated with your number reflect your new name.

Why It’s Important

Failing to update your name could result in:

• Mismatched records across agencies
• Payroll or tax errors
• Delays in processing benefits, pensions, or future claims
• Confusion in travel documentation (travel itinerary, updated passport)

Keeping your National Insurance, HMRC, and employer records current is important for long-term financial and legal clarity.

Need Help?

If you're unsure where to begin, our team can assist you with your Deed Poll, help complete your forms, and guide you through how to contact HMRC, submit your documents, or understand your obligations, whether you're in the UK or abroad.