Introduction to changing your name by Deed Poll

In order to change your name on official documents and records, for example your passport, driving licence, bank accounts, medical, tax and National Insurance records, etc, UK Government departments, companies and organisations will ask you for “documentary evidence” of your name change.

The term “documentary evidence” is used to describe a document that will enable you to get your name changed on all your official documents and records.

A Deed Poll is a form of documentary evidence, however other forms of documentary evidence which can be used as evidence of your name change include:

• Marriage Certificate

  Allows women to change their surname to their husband's surname. Please note: that if you intend to double-barrel or mesh your surnames, a Deed Poll will be required.

• Civil Partnership Certificate

  Allows one partner's surname to be changed to his/her partner's surname. Please note: that if you intend to double-barrel or mesh your surnames, a Deed Poll will be required.

• Decree Absolute Certificate

  Sometimes allows a divorcee to change her surname to the surname she used before marriage. Please note: that some record holders will not accept a decree absolute, in which case you will need to apply for a Deed Poll.

• Dissolution Order

  Allows a person's surname to be changed to the surname used before entering into a civil partnership.

• Death Certificate

  Usually allows a widow to change their surname to the surname used before marriage or civil partnership.

• Adoption Certificate

  Allows an adopted child’s surname to be changed to that of the adopted parents' surname.
  

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Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction to changing your name by Deed Poll
• What is a Deed Poll?
• What is a Deed of Change of Name?
• When signing a Deed Poll, what am I committing myself to?
• Do I need to get a solicitor to witness me sign my Deed Poll?
• Will my Deed Poll have a stamp or official seal on it?
  

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The page was last checked today by Kerry Hone, Senior Deed Poll Officer.