One of the most common questions we receive at UK Name Change is regarding the difference between an "enrolled" and an "unenrolled" deed poll. There is a widespread myth that if you want your name change to be "truly official," you must register it with the courts.
This is simply not true. In fact, choosing to enroll your deed poll can be a costly mistake regarding both your wallet and your personal privacy. In this guide, we break down why you likely do not need to pay extra for this service.
What is an Enrolled Deed Poll?
An enrolled deed poll is a name change document that has been formally registered with the Royal Courts of Justice in London. The process is archaic and complex. It requires you to:
- Pay a court fee (currently £50.32).
- Have a solicitor swear a statutory declaration (an additional cost).
- Have a witness who has known you for at least 10 years and is a home-owner.
- Wait weeks or months for the courts to process the paperwork.
The Privacy Risk: The London Gazette
The most significant downside of enrolling isn't the cost; it is the loss of privacy. When you enroll a deed poll, it becomes a matter of public record. By law, your name change details must be published in The London Gazette.
This publication will list:
- Your old name.
- Your new name.
- Your full home address.
This information is searchable online and stays there permanently. For many people—especially those changing their names to escape domestic situations, stalking, or simply for a fresh start—this is a major safety risk.
What is an Unenrolled Deed Poll?
An "unenrolled" deed poll is what UK Name Change provides. It is a private legal document that you sign in the presence of a witness. It does not need to be registered with the government or the courts.
The benefits are clear:
- Privacy: Your address is never published. No one knows you have changed your name unless you tell them.
- Speed: It is valid the moment you sign it. There is no waiting for court approval.
- Cost: It is significantly cheaper than the court fees associated with enrollment.
Is an Unenrolled Deed Poll "Less Legal"?
Absolutely not. This is the biggest misconception in the industry.
You do not need an enrolled deed poll to update your documents. An unenrolled deed poll issued by us is fully accepted by:
- HM Passport Office
- DVLA (Driving Licence)
- HMRC (Tax and National Insurance)
- All UK Banks and Building Societies
- The Electoral Roll
As long as the document is worded correctly and witnessed properly (which our instructions ensure), it carries the exact same legal weight as one stamped by the High Court.
When Would You Ever Need to Enroll?
There are very rare "edge cases" where enrolling might be necessary, but these apply to less than 1% of the population. You may need to enroll if:
- You are changing your name in connection with a title of nobility.
- You have complex assets abroad in a country that strictly requires government-registered documents (though many will still accept a notarized unenrolled deed poll).
For everyone else, enrolling is an unnecessary expense and a privacy liability.
Conclusion
Don't pay extra just to have your home address published on the internet. Choose the smarter, safer, and faster route.
At UK Name Change, we specialize in unenrolled deed polls that guarantee acceptance without the hassle of court registration. You can have your official documents ready to sign in minutes.
Ready to change your name legally and privately? Get started with us today.