A deed poll is a legal document that allows an individual to officially change their name. There are two types of deed polls in the UK: enrolled and unenrolled. In this article, we will focus on unenrolled deed polls, answering frequently asked questions and providing you with all the information you need to know.
An unenrolled deed poll, also known as a private deed poll, is a legal document that allows a person to change their name without enrolling it at the Royal Courts of Justice. This means that the new name is not part of the public record, which provides greater privacy for the individual. An unenrolled deed poll is just as legally binding and valid as an enrolled deed poll.
There are several reasons why someone might choose an unenrolled deed poll over an enrolled deed poll:
Privacy: An unenrolled deed poll allows you to change your name privately, without making it part of the official public record. This can be especially important for individuals who have experienced domestic abuse or stalking, or who simply want to maintain their privacy.
Cost: While both types of name deed poll service polls are relatively inexpensive, unenrolled deed polls are generally cheaper than enrolled deed polls. This is because there is no need to pay a fee to the Royal Courts of Justice for enrolling the name change.
Speed: Unenrolled deed polls can be prepared and executed more quickly than enrolled deed polls, as there is no need to wait for the enrollment process to be completed.
Flexibility: With an unenrolled name by deed poll, you can easily revert to your previous name should you change your mind, without having to go through the enrollment process again.
Creating an unenrolled deed poll is a straightforward process:
Draft the document: You can find templates online or hire a solicitor to draft the deed poll documents for you. The document should include your old name, your new name, your address, and the date of the name change.
Sign and witness: Once the document is drafted, you need to sign it in the presence of two witnesses who are not related to you and do not live at the same address. The witnesses must also sign the deed poll, confirming they witnessed your signature.
Make copies: Once the deed poll is signed and witnessed, make several copies of the document. You will need these to update your name with various organizations and institutions.
Notify relevant organizations: You should notify any organization that needs to know about your name change, organisations such as the DVLA and HMRC. You will need to provide them with a copy of the deed poll so they can update their records.
It's important to note that some government organizations may require an enrolled deed poll instead of an unenrolled one. In these cases, you will need to contact the Royal Courts of Justice and go through their enrollment process.
We hope this article has answered any questions you have about unenrolled deed polls in the UK. If you are thinking of changing your name, an unenrolled deed poll is a convenient and cost-effective way of doing so. Good luck with your name change!
If you are looking to change your name via deed poll here link to get started.
