How to Change Your Name by Deed Poll in the UK

Changing your name by deed poll in the UK is a simple process that allows you to legally update your name for all official purposes. Here’s a quick summary of how it works:

• What is a deed poll? A legal document that proves you’ve changed your name.
• Who can apply? Anyone aged 16 or older can apply independently. For those under 16, a parent or guardian must apply.
• How to get one? Use a professional service (starting at £16.95) or draft your own following legal guidelines.
• Steps to complete it:
  1. Obtain the deed poll document.
  2. Sign it using your new name in the presence of an independent adult witness.
  3. Optional: Enrol it with the High Court (£50.32) to make it a public record.
• Update records: Notify organisations like HM Passport Office, DVLA, banks, and HMRC. You’ll need certified copies for some.

Costs vary depending on the type of deed poll and updates needed (e.g., a new passport costs £94.50). Processing times generally range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the organisation.

For most, an unenrolled deed poll is sufficient and widely accepted. However, an enrolled deed poll may be required for added formality. Start by deciding which option suits your needs, and ensure all signatures and witness details are done correctly to avoid delays.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Deed Poll Process

Now that you’re clear on what a deed poll is and who can apply, let’s break down the process of getting one. It’s a simple procedure that can often be completed in just a few days.

Getting a Deed Poll Document

You’ve got two main options for obtaining a deed poll document. The first is to use a professional service, such as Name Change, which handles all the legal requirements for you. These services often provide certified copies of your deed poll, saving you the trouble of ordering extras later. This can be especially handy when you need to update your name with different organisations.

Alternatively, you can create your own deed poll. To do this, you’ll need to use the exact legal wording required under UK law. Any deviation from the prescribed format could render your document invalid, so it’s vital to get it right. Once drafted, the document should be printed on high-quality paper to meet legal standards.

If you opt for a professional service, you’ll need to provide your current full name, your new name, and your address. Many services process orders within 24–48 hours, and some even offer next-day delivery for added convenience.

Signing and Witnessing the Deed Poll

After receiving your deed poll document, the next step is signing it. This is a crucial part of the process, as the document only becomes legally valid once signed. Remember to sign it using your new name, not your old one.

You’ll also need two witnesses to oversee your signature. The witness must be an adult (18 or older) and cannot be a relative. They’ll each need to provide their full name and address on the document. Suitable witnesses could include friends, neighbours, colleagues, or professionals like teachers, doctors, or solicitors.

Once they’ve observed you signing the document in blue or black ink, the witnesses will add their own signatures and details. This step confirms both your identity and that you willingly signed the deed poll.

Updating Official Records After Changing Your Name

Once you've signed your deed poll, it's important to update your official records quickly to avoid any potential delays.

Key Documents and Organisations to Notify

Start by updating your most essential documents. Your passport should be your first priority since it's a key form of identification. Reach out to the HM Passport Office to get this sorted. Next, contact the DVLA to update your driving licence.

Don't forget to inform your bank or building society - most of them accept unenrolled deed polls, but it's a good idea to double-check their specific policies. You’ll also need to notify HMRC so your tax records reflect your new name. If you own property, make sure your details are updated with the Land Registry. Each organisation may have its own requirements, so confirm what they need before starting.

Supporting Documents You’ll Need

Before reaching out to these organisations, check whether they require an enrolled deed poll. It’s wise to have multiple certified copies of your deed poll ready, as many organisations will ask for one. Some may accept a certified copy, while others might insist on seeing the original document. Keep in mind that for most official purposes, informal use of your new name won’t be enough - you’ll need formal proof.

Making the Process Easier

Focus on updating key documents like your passport, driving licence, and bank records first. If your name change coincides with a wedding or divorce, ensure your travel bookings match the name on your passport to avoid complications. Always keep the necessary official paperwork handy to verify your new name when needed.

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Costs, Timelines, and Choosing the Right Deed Poll Option

Now that we've covered the process, let’s dive into the costs, timelines, and factors to consider when selecting the best deed poll option for your situation.

Costs of Changing Your Name by Deed Poll

The price of changing your name depends on the type of deed poll you choose and how quickly you need it delivered. Unenrolled deed polls are the more budget-friendly option. For instance, Name Change offers a standard service for £16.95, while their premium service costs £24.95 and includes a gold embossed stamp, which some organisations prefer.

If you're in a rush, you can opt for priority dispatch for an extra £5.95, ensuring same-day dispatch if ordered by 3 p.m., with next-day delivery via Royal Mail Tracked24.

For those opting for an enrolled deed poll, the cost is £50.32 through the High Court. This fee covers the process of recording your name change on the public record, but note that enrolled deed polls are only available to individuals aged 18 or older.

Beyond the deed poll itself, you’ll also need to account for costs associated with updating official documents. For example, a new adult passport costs £94.50 online, while a child’s passport costs £61.50. Fortunately, the DVLA doesn’t charge for updating your driving licence if you’re simply changing your name.

Processing Times and What to Expect

The time it takes to complete the entire name change process is usually 3 to 8 weeks. However, this depends on how quickly you obtain your deed poll and how promptly you notify organisations.

Receiving your deed poll document is often the fastest step. Standard delivery takes 3–4 working days, while express services dispatch the same day for next-day delivery. If you're in urgent need, some services even offer premium one-hour collection for in-person applications.

Once you have your deed poll, the timeline for updating records with organisations varies:

• HM Passport Office: Typically processes applications within 3 weeks, though it may extend to 3–6 weeks during peak periods.
• DVLA: Updates driving licences in approximately 3 weeks.
• Banks: Usually update records within 1–2 weeks.
• HMRC: Takes about 2–4 weeks to update tax records.
• Utility companies: Generally require 1–2 weeks for updates.
• Council tax and electoral register: Updates take 2–4 weeks.

To avoid delays, consider ordering duplicate deed polls so you can notify multiple organisations simultaneously. Also, having all your identification and supporting documents ready in advance can help speed things up.

Unenrolled vs Enrolled Deed Polls

Your choice between an unenrolled and enrolled deed poll depends on factors like your budget, age, and the requirements of the organisations you need to notify.

For most people, unenrolled deed polls are sufficient. They’re legally valid immediately (if you’re 16 or older) and are accepted by the majority of UK organisations. You can even create one yourself, saving both time and money.

However, some situations may require an enrolled deed poll. These are necessary if certain organisations insist on the added formality of a public record or if you personally prefer this option. Though it takes longer and costs more, it guarantees acceptance by all organisations.

Before deciding, check with the organisations you need to notify to confirm which type of deed poll they’ll accept. And don’t forget to follow the signing and witnessing steps outlined earlier to ensure your deed poll is completed correctly.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Changing your name by deed poll in the UK can be completed in just a few weeks with the right preparation.

Key Points to Remember

• Unenrolled deed polls are widely accepted: For most purposes, an unenrolled deed poll (costing between £16.95 and £24.95) is sufficient and recognised by the majority of organisations.
• Timing matters: The process typically takes a few weeks. Start updating essential documents like your passport, driving licence, and bank accounts as soon as possible to avoid delays.
• Witness requirements: An independent adult must witness your signature to make the document valid.
• Order extra copies upfront: Multiple certified copies allow you to update several records at the same time, saving time and hassle.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can make the transition to your new name as smooth as possible.

How Name Change Can Simplify the Process

If you’re looking for an easier way to handle the paperwork, Name Change offers a secure online service designed to simplify everything. They provide legally valid deed polls with three certified copies, tracked delivery, and a step-by-step guide - removing the need for costly solicitor visits.

For added formality, their premium option (£24.95) includes a gold-embossed stamp, which some organisations may prefer. Both services also include PDF archiving and unlimited downloads, ensuring you’ll always have digital access to your documents.

With Name Change managing the technicalities, you can focus on starting this new chapter with confidence.

FAQs

What’s the difference between an unenrolled and an enrolled deed poll, and how do I choose the right one?

An unenrolled deed poll is a private document used to legally change your name. It’s available to anyone aged 16 or older and isn’t added to any public records. Despite this, it’s still valid for most legal and practical purposes.

An enrolled deed poll is different. This type of deed poll is officially registered with the High Court, making it part of public records. It’s only available to individuals aged 18 or over and costs £50.32. Some organisations might insist on an enrolled deed poll for added formality, so it’s a good idea to check their requirements before making your decision.

If maintaining privacy is a priority, an unenrolled deed poll could be the better option. However, if you need a formal, publicly recorded name change for specific organisations, an enrolled deed poll might be more appropriate.

When is an enrolled deed poll required instead of an unenrolled one?

Some organisations might specifically ask for an enrolled deed poll instead of an unenrolled one when you need to update your name. This could apply to places like banks, mobile phone companies, or utility providers. Enrolled deed polls can also be required for certain legal or official matters, as they are entered into public records and are often seen as more formal.

If you're not sure whether you need an enrolled deed poll, it's a good idea to confirm directly with the organisation or authority involved.

What can I do if an organisation refuses to accept my unenrolled deed poll as proof of my name change?

If an organisation refuses to accept your unenrolled deed poll, you might need to consider applying for an enrolled deed poll. This is a more formal process where your name change is officially registered with the courts, which can make it more broadly accepted.

To move forward, it’s a good idea to contact the organisation to clarify their specific requirements and confirm whether enrolling your deed poll will address the issue. Be aware that the enrolment process involves extra steps and fees, but it offers stronger legal recognition for your name change.