When you decide to change your name in the UK, you will likely encounter two primary legal terms: Deed Poll and Statutory Declaration. While both documents can be used to prove a change of name, they serve slightly different purposes and involve different processes. For most people in London and across the UK, choosing the right one is the difference between a quick, affordable update and a slow, expensive hurdle.
At UK Name Change, we specialise in streamlining this process. In this guide, we will break down the differences between these two documents so you can decide which path is right for your specific needs.
What is a Deed Poll?
A deed poll is a legal document that provides evidence that you have changed your name. It is a "deed"—a binding contract with yourself—where you formally declare that you are abandoning your old name and adopting a new one for all purposes.
In the UK, the unenrolled deed poll is the standard method used for name changes. It is a private document that is signed by you and an independent witness. It is accepted by all major government bodies, including HM Passport Office, the DVLA, and HMRC, as well as private institutions like banks and employers.
What is a Statutory Declaration?
A Statutory Declaration is a written statement of fact that is signed in the presence of a solicitor, a Commissioner for Oaths, or a Notary Public. Unlike a deed poll, which is a private agreement, a Statutory Declaration is governed by the Statutory Declarations Act 1835. It is a formal declaration that carries criminal penalties if you knowingly make a false statement.
Key Differences: Deed Poll vs Statutory Declaration
| Feature | Deed Poll | Statutory Declaration |
|---|---|---|
| Witness Requirement | Any independent adult (18+) | Solicitor or Commissioner for Oaths |
| Typical Cost | £19.49 - £29.99 | Legal fees for drafting + Solicitor's fee |
| Ease of Creation | Instant (Online) | Requires a legal appointment |
| Common Use | General Name Changes | Specific legal/foreign requirements |
When Should You Choose a Deed Poll?
For 99% of name changes in the UK, a deed poll is the superior choice. You should choose a deed poll if:
- You want to update your British Passport, Driving Licence, and bank records quickly.
- You want an affordable process that doesn't require a solicitor's appointment.
- You are an adult (16+) or are changing a child's name with full parental consent.
- You prefer an instant digital document you can print and sign today.
When Might You Need a Statutory Declaration?
While less common, there are specific scenarios where an organisation might specifically request a Statutory Declaration instead of a deed poll:
- Foreign National Requirements: Some foreign embassies in London may insist on a Statutory Declaration (often witnessed by a Notary Public) before they will update a non-UK passport.
- Complex Family Disputes: In some rare child name change cases, a Statutory Declaration might be used alongside a court order.
- Old Pension Schemes: A few very old-fashioned financial institutions might still have internal policies that specify a Statutory Declaration, although this is becoming increasingly rare.
The Verdict: Why Deed Poll Wins
In modern UK practice, the deed poll has largely replaced the Statutory Declaration for name change purposes because it is faster, cheaper, and more convenient. Organisations like the Passport Office and DVLA treat a correctly drafted deed poll with exactly the same legal weight as a Statutory Declaration.
By choosing a deed poll from UK Name Change, you avoid the "solicitor tax." You don't need to pay for a legal professional's time to witness your signature when any independent friend or colleague can do it for free on a deed poll document.
Conclusion
Unless you have been specifically told by an official body (like a foreign embassy) that you must have a Statutory Declaration, a deed poll is the way to go. It is the efficient, modern, and legally solid method to claim your new name in 2025.
At UK Name Change, we provide solicitor-approved deed polls that are guaranteed to be accepted across the board. Our platform gives you the professional wording of a high-level legal document with the speed of an online service.
Ready to choose the simplest path to your new name? Start your deed poll application today and have your legal documents ready in minutes. If you’re still unsure which document your specific situation requires, contact our expert support team for a friendly consultation.
