Change name by deed poll

About This Deedpoll

This information is intended for British citizens over 16 years of age who are looking to change their name through a deed poll. Completing a deed of change of name (commonly known simply as a deed poll) is usually the easiest way to start the process of changing your name on all your documents and records.

The law recognises the name that you use on the majority of records, not the name on any one single document. So to change your name legally, you not only need to complete a statement that you renounce your old name and take a new one (a deed of change of name) but you also have to tell friends and family to use your new name, and you have to tell organisations such as government departments, your bank and utility companies to do so as well.

Government organisations, who should be the first organisations to approach (since the most important documents such as your passport are issued by government organisations), accept a deed of change of name as evidence of your intention to be known by a new name.

There are many companies on the Internet charging high prices for what is in effect a printing service. We want you to know that there are alternatives to using these companies.

A deed of change of name is a legal document, not a government form. There are no ‘official’ services approved by the government or run by a government department because changing your name is not a government matter. Nor is there any requirement to have your deed poll printed on special paper or stamped with a red, silver or gold seal.

The document may look more ‘official’ or ‘authentic’ but the weight and colour of the paper and presence of a stamp have absolutely no legal effect. The UK IPS, the DVLA and all other organisations will accept a deed poll printed by you at home on normal white paper.

If you haven't already, we recommend that you read our articles on changing your name for more information.

What Net Lawman is providing in this Pack?

1. Deed Poll template
2. Example letter to utility
3. Example letter to local garage
4. Example letter to bank

Introduction to a Deed Poll

What is a Deed Poll?

A deed poll is a legal document that binds an individual to a particular course of action, specifically a change of name. It serves as a formal declaration by the applicant that they wish to be known by a new name. This document is essential for updating official documents such as passports, driving licenses, and birth certificates.

In the UK, a deed poll is a widely accepted method for changing one’s name, recognized by most organizations and government agencies as valid proof of a name change. Whether you are changing your name for personal reasons, marriage, or any other reason, a deed poll ensures that your new name is legally recognized.

Types of Deed Polls

You can obtain a deed poll in two ways:

by creating an ‘unenrolled’ deed poll yourself

by applying for an ‘enrolled’ deed poll

It's important to check with the organisation you need to provide proof to (such as your bank) to find out which type of deed poll they accept as valid evidence of your new name.

Deed Polls and Their Uses

Deed polls are legal documents used to change any part of a name, including forenames, middle names, and surname. They allow adding, removing, spelling changes, or rearranging names. For a child's name change, all parents with responsibility must consent. The child's best interests are always considered in the decision-making process. Deed polls are commonly used for marriage, divorce, or personal preference to legally update a name.

Benefits of Deed Polls

Using a deed poll to change your name offers several benefits. It allows you to update official documents quickly and affordably without a lengthy legal process. Deed polls are private, requiring no public announcement, and are accepted by all UK government agencies, including HM Passport Office and the DVLA, ensuring smooth record updates.

Why and Who Can Change Their Name

Reasons for a Name Change

Changing your name by deed poll can be done for various reasons, such as personal preference, marriage, divorce, or to align with your gender identity, and any part of your name can be changed. You can change your first name, middle name, or surname, and also add or remove names from your existing name.

The deed poll process lets you update official documents like your passport, driving licence, and birth certificate to reflect your new name. If changing your name due to marriage or divorce, you may need to provide a marriage certificate or decree absolute as proof.

Eligibility for Name Change

To be eligible to change your name by deed poll in the UK, you must be at least 16 years old. If under 16, a parent or guardian with parental responsibility can apply on your behalf, provided all guardians agree. In some cases, if guardians disagree, the court may need to approve the name change. Those aged 16 to 18 can apply themselves, but guardians may object in certain cases.

There are generally no restrictions on the new name chosen, as long as it is not for fraudulent purposes or offensive. For a child’s name change, consent from all persons with parental responsibility is required to ensure the change is legally valid and in the child’s best interest.

Name Change Considerations

When changing your name by deed poll, remember to update your records with organisations like your bank, employer, and the DVLA. You should contact relevant organizations to inform them of your name change and provide the necessary documentation. You’ll need to provide proof, such as your original deed poll, and be aware of any restrictions, especially for changing a child’s name. Also, consider the costs involved and the requirement to sign the deed poll in front of two witnesses.

Applying for a Deed Poll

Documents Required

When applying for a deed poll, you need to complete the form with your old and new names clearly written. The form must be signed and dated in the presence of two independent witnesses over 18 who are not related to you; they will also sign to confirm its authenticity. These witnesses do not need to be solicitors, but the form must be correctly submitted to be valid.

You can choose to register your deed poll at the Royal Courts of Justice for an official record, though registration is optional. Once registered, your deed poll will be published in The Gazette.

Payment can be made by debit card or other accepted methods. Afterwards, you must inform organisations such as the HM Passport Office and banks, providing the original deed poll as proof to update your records with your new name.

Witness Requirements

Signing a deed poll requires two witnesses over 18 who are not related to you. They must watch you sign and then sign the document themselves. Witnesses can be friends or neighbours and do not need to be professionals. Their signatures confirm the deed poll’s authenticity and legal validity.

The Process of Changing Your Name

The process of changing your name by deed poll involves applying for a legal deed poll document, either online or through a solicitor, and paying a fee.

After receiving it, you must sign the deed poll in the presence of two witnesses who also sign it. You can then use this document to update your official records, such as your passport and driving licence, by notifying organisations like HM Passport Office and the DVLA. Finally, you must inform all relevant organisations to ensure your new name is recognised.

Legal and Practical Aspects

Do I Need a Solicitor for a Deed Poll?

No, you do not need a solicitor to apply for a deed poll in the UK. You can complete the deed poll yourself using online forms or templates. The main legal requirement is that you sign the deed poll in the presence of two independent witnesses over 18, who also sign it.

While using a solicitor can offer extra guidance, especially for complex cases like changing a child’s name, it is not mandatory and may increase costs, so you should decide based on your specific needs.

Is a Deed Poll accepted by the DVLA?

Yes, the DVLA accepts a deed poll as legal proof of your name change for updating your driving licence and vehicle records.

Notification and Publication

Informing Relevant Parties

When you change your name by deed poll, it’s crucial to inform all relevant parties to ensure your new name is recognised across all your records. Start by updating your details with key organisations such as your bank, employer, and various government agencies. For instance, the HM Passport Office and the DVLA will require you to submit your original deed poll document as proof of your new name. This document will also be necessary when updating your passport, driving licence, and other official documents. Remember, each organisation may have its own specific requirements, so it’s essential to check what proof they need to accept your name change.

Publication Requirements

In some cases, after changing your name by deed poll, you may need to publish your new name in certain publications, such as The London Gazette. This step is often required by specific organisations to formally announce your name change. Using your deed poll document, you can publish your new name, which then serves as official proof of your name change. The publication requirements can vary depending on your circumstances, so it’s important to verify with the relevant organisations to understand what is needed. This publication helps to ensure that your name change is recognised and accepted across all necessary platforms.