Expert guides and advice
Articles in Documentation
A dropped apostrophe, a transliterated surname, an initial instead of a forename - when records disagree about your spelling, a sworn declaration states that every version refers to you. What it says, what it costs, and the one case it cannot fix.
Pensions, probate, property and old accounts often surface records in a maiden name. Here is when your marriage certificate is all you need - and when a sworn "one and the same person" declaration is the document that unblocks things.
If a foreign government, bank or embassy asks for a legalised UK deed poll, you'll usually need an apostille. This 2026 guide explains what an apostille is, how to get a deed poll apostilled (including the crucial enrolled vs unenrolled difference), costs, timescales, and what to do for non-Hague countries.
LOC020 is the free gov.uk Change of Name Deed template. Here is exactly where to download it, a field-by-field guide to completing it, how to sign it so it is legally valid, the witness rules, the common mistakes, and an honest look at DIY versus a paid printed deed poll.
The PD2 form lets you apply for a UK passport in your married name up to 3 months before your wedding or civil partnership. This 2026 guide covers eligibility, the application process, and what to do if you're changing your name for non-marriage reasons.