Can You Change Your Name While Receiving Benefits?
If you are receiving benefits like Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or Child Benefit, you might be worried about changing your name.
We often hear questions like: "Will my payments stop if I change my name?" or "Will I be flagged for a fraud check?"
The short answer is: Yes, you can change your name, and your payments should not stop. However, you must follow a strict process to ensure your money keeps arriving on time.
Here is your step-by-step guide to updating your identity with the DWP and HMRC without causing a financial headache.
The Golden Rule: Tell Them Immediately
When you change your name legally (via Deed Poll or Marriage), it counts as a "Change of Circumstances."
You are legally required to report this change to every benefit office that pays you. If you delay, you could technically be committing benefit fraud, or at the very least, cause confusion that leads to payment delays later.
Will My Payments Stop?
Generally, no. Changing your name does not affect your entitlement to money (unlike changing your income or moving in with a partner).
However, the DWP may temporarily suspend payments if they suspect identity fraud. To avoid this, you must be quick to provide proof (your Deed Poll) when they ask for it.
The "Bank Account" Trap
The biggest risk to your payments isn't the DWP—it's your bank.
If you update your name with Universal Credit but forget to update your bank, the payment might bounce because the names don't match. Conversely, if you update your bank but not the DWP, the bank might reject a payment arriving in your "old" name.
The Solution: Try to update your Bank and your Benefits in the same week. (Banks usually require you to visit a branch with your Deed Poll).
How to Update Specific Benefits
1. Universal Credit (The Online Journal)
This is the easiest one to update.
- Log in to your Universal Credit online account.
- Go to the "Report a Change" section.
- Select "Personal Details" and enter your new name.
What happens next: You will likely receive a message in your Journal inviting you to verify your identity. You may need to upload a photo of your Deed Poll or, in some cases, take it to your local Jobcentre.
2. Child Benefit
Child Benefit is managed by HMRC, not the DWP, so you must tell them separately. You can do this via the Gov.uk website or the HMRC App.
They usually do not require you to post your original Deed Poll if you have a Government Gateway account, but they may request it if their automated checks fail.
3. Housing Benefit (Council Tax Support)
This is paid by your Local Council. Every council is different.
You will usually need to email their benefits department or visit the council offices. They are strict about evidence and will almost certainly demand to see your original Deed Poll (not a photocopy). Do not delay this, or your rent payments could be paused.
4. Personal Independence Payment (PIP) & Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
You cannot update these online. You must call the specific helpline for your benefit:
- PIP Enquiry Line: 0800 121 4433
- Disability Service Centre: 0800 121 4600
They will update your file and send you a letter confirming the change. They may ask you to post your Deed Poll to their processing centre.
Summary: The Safe "Order of Operations"
To keep your payments safe, follow this order:
- Get your Deed Poll. (You need the physical paper before you do anything else).
- Update your Bank Account. (Visit your branch).
- Update Universal Credit / Benefits immediately after.
Get the Document The DWP Accepts
The DWP and Housing Benefit offices will reject DIY or hand-written notes. They need a formal, legal document.
Get your official Deed Poll today for just £19.49.
