How Many Deed Poll Copies Should You Order? (The Speed Strategy)
When you reach the checkout on our site, you are asked if you want to add "Duplicate Originals" to your order. It is tempting to skip this to save a few pounds. After all, you have a photocopier at work, right?
This is a mistake that can cost you months of waiting.
Having only one Deed Poll creates a "bottleneck" in your name change process. Here is the definitive guide on why you need duplicates, and exactly how many we recommend based on your situation.
Why Photocopies Don't Work
The first rule of changing your name is: Government bodies do not accept photocopies.
HM Passport Office, the DVLA, and most high street banks require an "Original" document. This means a document that bears the actual "wet ink" of your pen and the raised seal of our company.
If you send a photocopy to the Passport Office, they will reject your application instantly, and you will lose your queue position.
The "Bottleneck" Math: 1 Copy vs. 3 Copies
To understand why you need copies, you have to look at the timeline.
Scenario A: You Order 1 Copy
- You post your ONE Deed Poll to the Passport Office.
- They keep it for 3 to 10 weeks while processing your new passport.
- During this time, you cannot update your Driving Licence (DVLA) or your Bank Account because you have no proof of your name change.
- Total Time: 3+ Months.
Scenario B: You Order 3 Copies
- You send Copy #1 to the Passport Office.
- On the same day, you send Copy #2 to the DVLA.
- On the same day, you take Copy #3 into your Bank Branch.
- Total Time: 2-3 Weeks.
For the price of a coffee, you save yourself two months of administrative limbo.
Who Keeps It and Who Returns It?
Another reason to have spares is the risk of loss. While organisations should return your documents, mail gets lost.
| Organisation | Requirement | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| HM Passport Office | Must be Original | High (They keep it for weeks) |
| DVLA | Must be Original | Medium (By post) |
| Banks | Must be Original | Low (Handed back in branch) |
| Insurers / HR | Scan / Photocopy | Zero (Email) |
Our Recommendation: The Sweet Spot
So, what is the magic number?
1. The "Standard" Pack (3 - 5 Copies)
This is what 90% of our customers choose. It allows you to tackle the "Big Three" (Passport, Licence, Bank) simultaneously, while keeping one spare in a safe drawer at home just in case the Royal Mail loses one.
2. The "Complex" Pack (8 - 10 Copies)
We recommend this if you have a complex financial life. If you have multiple pension pots, investment accounts, premium bonds, and visas, you will need to send originals to all of them. Having 10 copies allows you to blitz the entire list in one afternoon.
Don't Wait—Automate
The goal of changing your name is to start your new life, not to be stuck in paperwork for half a year.
Add Duplicate Originals to your order at checkout and get your name changed fast.
