Why Some Companies Ask for Enrolled Deed Polls (And When You Actually Need One)
You’ve got your Deed Poll. It’s signed, witnessed, and official. But then you encounter a stubborn clerk at a bank or a visa agency who says: “Sorry, we only accept enrolled Deed Polls.”
Panic sets in. Did you buy the wrong thing? Is your document invalid?
Rest assured: In 99% of cases, the person asking for this is wrong.
Here is the truth about "Enrolled" vs. "Unenrolled" Deed Polls, why organisations get confused, and the very rare occasions when you might actually need one.
What Is the Difference?
First, let’s clarify the two types:
- Unenrolled Deed Poll (What We Provide): A legal contract you sign with a witness. It is private, fast, and legally accepted by the Passport Office, DVLA, and all UK banks.
- Enrolled Deed Poll: A Deed Poll that is "registered" with the Royal Courts of Justice. It costs over £60, takes months, and—crucially—publishes your name and home address permanently on the internet (via The Gazette).
Why Companies Ask for "Enrolled" (The Misunderstanding)
If Unenrolled Deed Polls are legal, why do some staff insist on Enrolled ones?
1. Lack of Training:
Junior staff often assume that a "legal" document must have a government stamp on it. They don't realise that under UK law, the Deed Poll itself is the legal instrument.
2. Fear of Fraud:
An Enrolled Deed Poll is easier for them to check because they can search for it online. However, this is lazy verification. The proper way to verify an Unenrolled Deed Poll is to ask for it alongside "supporting evidence" (like a driving licence or utility bill).
What to do if refused: Politely ask to speak to a manager or the legal department. Point out that HM Passport Office and the DVLA accept Unenrolled Deed Polls. Once escalated, the decision is almost always overturned.
When Do You ACTUALLY Need to Enrol? (The Rare Cases)
While most people should avoid enrolling due to privacy risks, there are a few "Edge Cases" where it is mandatory.
1. Changing a Child's Name (Complex Cases)
If you want to change a child's name and you do not have the consent of everyone with parental responsibility (e.g., an absent father), you may need a court order. In these complex family law situations, enrolling the deed might be part of the court's requirements.
2. Certain Professional Titles
If you are a member of certain strict professional bodies (sometimes relevant for doctors, dentists, or barristers), they may have internal by-laws requiring an enrolled deed to update your professional registration. Always check with your specific regulatory body first.
3. Updating Historical Wills
If you are named as a beneficiary in a very old will or trust fund, the executors might be incredibly strict about proof of identity. However, even then, a standard Deed Poll combined with a statutory declaration is usually sufficient.
Why You Should Avoid Enrolling If Possible
Unless you fall into one of the rare categories above, we strongly advise against enrolling.
The Privacy Risk:
When you enrol a deed, your old name, new name, and full home address are published in The London Gazette. This is a public record that appears in Google searches forever. If you are changing your name to escape a stalker, debt collectors, or an abusive partner, enrolling is dangerous.
Summary: Stick to the Standard
For 99.9% of people, a standard Unenrolled Deed Poll is faster, safer, cheaper, and fully accepted by the Passport Office, DVLA, and Banks.
Don't let a confused bank clerk pressure you into publishing your private data on the internet. Get a standard Deed Poll and stand your ground.
