Frequently asked questions

Q: What is the difference between an Enrolled Deed Poll and an Un-enrolled Deed Poll?

An Enrolled Deed Poll is officially registered with the Royal Courts of Justice, making your name change a public record. It is mainly used for legal transparency but is not required for most people.

An Un-enrolled Deed Poll is a private document that is just as legally valid and widely accepted by UK institutions. At UK Deed Poll Department, we provide legally recognized Un-enrolled Deed Polls that allow you to change your name quickly and hassle-free.

Q: Do I need to register the Deed Poll anywhere?

No, there is no legal requirement to register your Deed Poll. Once signed, witnessed, and executed correctly, it is a fully valid legal document. You can use it to update your name with government bodies, banks, the DVLA, and other organizations.

If you wish to make your name change a public record, you can enroll it with the Royal Courts of Justice, but this is optional and not necessary for most people.

Q: Can I change my name by Deed Poll if I am a British citizen living abroad?

Yes! As a British citizen, you can change your name by Deed Poll even if you live abroad. You can use your Deed Poll to update your UK passport, bank accounts, and other official records.

However, some foreign authorities may have different name change requirements. We recommend checking with the British embassy or consulate in your country of residence for any additional steps.

Q: Does my name change automatically after marriage?

No. You must notify organisations like HM Passport Office, DVLA, and HMRC.

Q: Can I change just my title (e.g., to Mrs)?

Yes! Titles aren’t legally binding. Update them informally without a Deed Poll.

Q: What if I live abroad?

Use a certified marriage certificate translation or apply for a Deed Poll. Contact your local British embassy for guidance.

Q: Do I need a Deed Poll to change my title (e.g., from Miss to Mrs)?

No, a Deed Poll is not required to change your title (e.g., Miss, Mrs, or Ms). Titles are not legally binding in the UK and do not appear on passports. You can start using your new title informally. However, if you acquire a title of nobility (e.g., Lady), you must update your passport but still do not need a Deed Poll.

Q: How do I change my name on my driving licence after marriage?

To update your driving licence:

1. Complete the D1 application form (available at Post Offices).
2. Include your marriage certificate or Deed Poll (if required).
3. Send it to DVLA.
   gov.uk reference: Change name on driving licence.

Q: Is there a time limit to change my name after marriage?

No, there’s no deadline. You can update your name weeks, months, or even years after your wedding.

Q: Can I use my marriage certificate to change my name with banks?

Most banks accept a marriage certificate for straightforward surname changes (e.g., taking your spouse’s name). For middle name changes or non-traditional surnames, a Deed Poll may be required.

Q: What if I want a double-barrelled surname without a hyphen?

If the double-barrelled name is clearly derived from both surnames (e.g., Smith Jones), your marriage certificate is may be sufficient. For ambiguous combinations, use a Deed Poll to avoid issues.

Q: How much does it cost to change my name after marriage?

Costs vary:

• Marriage certificate: £11 (original copy).
• Deed Poll: From £17.99 (via Deed Poll Department).
• Passport update: £82.50 (online application).
  gov.uk reference: Passport fees

Q: How do I update my name on property deeds?

Submit an AP1 form to HM Land Registry with your marriage certificate or Deed Poll. A small fee applies.

Q: Can I change my child’s surname after marriage?

Yes, but you’ll need consent from everyone with parental responsibility. A Deed Poll is required unless all parties agree to use your marriage certificate.

Q: How do I update my name with the NHS?

Contact your GP surgery with your marriage certificate or Deed Poll. For your NHS number, visit NSCSP.

Q: Can I change my name after marriage without a Deed Poll?
Yes, if you are simply adopting your spouse’s surname. Your marriage certificate is enough. However, if you’re modifying or merging names, a Deed Poll is required.

Q: How do I update my passport after my name change?

Apply for a new passport by providing either your marriage certificate (for a straightforward surname change) or your Deed Poll (for additional changes). Visit the HM Passport Office for details.

Q: What is the process for changing my driving licence name?
Fill out the D1 form and submit it with your marriage certificate or Deed Poll to the DVLA. More info can be found on gov.uk.

Q: How do I update my name with HMRC?
Log in to your Personal Tax Account to notify HMRC of your change of name.

Q: What if I want to revert to my maiden name later?
You can change your name back by using another Deed Poll if needed.

Q: As a Director of a limited company, do I need to notify Companies House if I have changed my name??

If you are a director of a limited company and have changed your name, you must notify Companies House within 14 days of the change. Here’s how to do it:

Online Filing: Use the Companies House online service to update your details promptly. This method is quicker and more secure.

By Post: Complete the CH01 form titled “Change of director’s details” and mail the completed form to the appropriate Companies House address as specified in the form’s instructions.gov.uk

Important Notes:

• There is no fee for updating these details.
• Ensure that the company’s internal registers are also updated to reflect the change.

• Timely notification helps maintain accurate public records and ensures compliance with statutory requirements.

For more detailed guidance, refer to gov.uk pages.

Q: As a Secretary of a limited company, do I need to notify Companies House if I have changed my name?

If you are a secretary of a limited company and have changed your name, you must notify Companies House within 14 days of the change. Here’s how to do it:

Online Filing: Use the Companies House online service to update the secretary’s details.

By Post: Complete the CH03 form titled “Change of secretary’s details” and mail the completed form to the appropriate Companies House address as specified in the form’s instructions.gov.uk

Important Notes:

• There is no fee for updating these details.
• Ensure that the company’s internal registers are also updated to reflect the change.

• Timely notification helps maintain accurate public records and ensures compliance with statutory requirements.

For more detailed guidance, refer to gov.uk pages

Q: Can I change my name through Deed Poll if I have a criminal record?

Yes, you can change your name by Deed Poll even if you have a criminal record. However, if you are on probation, subject to a court order, or under investigation, you may need to inform the relevant authorities. You must not change your name to avoid legal obligations or criminal investigations.

Q: Do you need a solicitor to change your name?

No, you do not need a solicitor to change your name. At UK Deed Poll Department, we provide legally valid Deed Poll documents without the need for expensive solicitor services. You simply need to sign and have two independent witnesses sign the document to make it legally binding.

Q: How do I execute the Deed Poll?

Executing a Deed Poll is simple:

• Apply through UK Deed Poll Department.
• Sign the Deed Poll using your new name.
• Have two witnesses (18+) sign the document (they must not be family members or live at your address).
• Use your Deed Poll to update your name with government departments, banks, and other institutions.

With UK Deed Poll Department, you’ll receive clear instructions to ensure your Deed Poll is executed correctly.

Q: Would changing my name through Deed Poll affect my credit rating?

No, changing your name by Deed Poll will not affect your credit score. However, it is important to inform your bank so that your financial history is correctly linked to your new name. This will ensure that your credit records remain accurate and up to date without any disruption.

Q: Can I change my name through Deed Poll if I am an undischarged bankrupt?

Yes, you can change your name, but you must inform the Official Receiver of your name change. Your bankruptcy restrictions will still apply, and changing your name does not remove your legal obligations. At UK Deed Poll Department, we provide guidance on how to notify the relevant authorities when changing your name.

Q: Do I need to notify the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) of my name change by Deed Poll?

The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) has been replaced by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). If you have a DBS certificate, you must notify the DBS Update Service of your name change and provide proof, such as your Deed Poll and updated ID.

Q: What are the rules for same-sex marriage name changes?

The process for updating your name following a same-sex marriage is identical to that for a heterosexual couple. For more details, please check out our ‘How to change your name after marriage‘ page.