- February 2012. l would just like to comment on the service I have received. The reply’s to my emails has been super quick, and the service has been absolutely unbelievable – wonderful!. I will definitely recommend your service to anyone. I would like to congratulate you on a ...
Noman, Westbury, Wiltshire.
A woman's rights upon marriage
A woman’s surname doesn’t automatically change to her husband’s upon marriage. Nor will the marriage certificate indicate the name by which you will be known after the wedding. Marriage certificates simply record the couple’s names i.e. your husband’s surname and your surname (maiden name).
In summary, the law allows you to choose which surname you wish to use upon marriage. Most women follow tradition and thereby choose to take their husband’s surname, but you are perfectly within your rights to continue using your maiden name if you wish.
Another option is for you and your husband-to-be to change your surnames to a double-barrelled surname. Or you could use your husband’s surname and include your maiden name as a middle name. Some couples also opt to ‘mesh’ their surnames by blending elements of each name to create an entirely new surname.
Not all surname changes require a Deed Poll, but some do. The remainder of this guide explains the various options open to you.
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Subjects covered in this guide
Options that do not need a Deed Poll
Options that may, or will need, a Deed Poll
- If you add your maiden name to your middle names
- If you 'mesh' your surnames
- If you double-barrel your surname
- If your marriage certificate is not in English
Additional information
- Changing your title to Mrs
- When to apply for your Deed Poll
- Retaining your maiden name for professional purposes
- Making other changes to your name
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This page was last checked today by Amanda Dawson, Senior Deed Poll Officer.
