How Much Does It Cost to Change Your Name in the UK?

Changing your name can feel like a big step, whether it’s for a fresh start, after marriage, or simply because you want a name that feels more “you.” The good news is that the process in the UK is straightforward and affordable.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the typical costs, explain the different options available, and provide a clear idea of what to expect, so you can plan with confidence.

1. Free vs. Paid Methods of Changing Your Name

You might be surprised to hear that, in the UK, you can technically start using a new name for free. Just introduce yourself with it, start signing it, and before long, people will know you by it. The problem is that most official organisations — like your bank, the DVLA, or HM Passport Office — won’t recognise it without proper proof.

That’s where a deed poll comes in. A deed poll is a simple legal document that proves your new name and makes the change official in the eyes of companies, schools, and government offices. It’s the most popular route people take because it’s quick, affordable, and widely accepted.

2. Cost of a Deed Poll

When it comes to getting a deed poll, you’ve got a few options:

• Do-it-yourself deed poll: You can draft your own deed poll for free. The downside is that if it’s not written correctly, some organisations may refuse it, which can cause delays and headaches later on.
• Other online services: Some companies charge more for the same basic service. For example, the Online Deed Poll Office charges £22.50 just for a deed poll. If you also want their “hassle-free kit,” which includes extra guidance, the price jumps to £79.95.
• Online deed poll services (like ours): With our service, you get the same legally valid deed poll for just £9.49. If you’d like the deed poll plus our full guide, the total is only £14.49. This means you can get everything you need at a much more affordable price — and still have the confidence that your document will be worded correctly and accepted by official bodies.
• Enrolled deed poll: If you want to formally register your name change with the Royal Courts of Justice, you can “enrol” it. This step is optional, but it does make the change part of the public record. The court fee is currently £42.44.

3. Name Changes for Children

Changing a child’s name can be a little more complicated than changing your own. If both parents (or guardians) share parental responsibility, you’ll need consent from everyone involved before the change can go ahead.

The deed poll itself costs the same as an adult one — £9.49 with us, or £14.49 if you’d like it with our full guide. But if one parent doesn’t agree, things can get trickier. In those cases, you may need to apply for a court order, which can add extra time, paperwork, and cost.

For most families where everyone is on the same page, though, the process is just as straightforward as an adult name change.

4. Final Thoughts

Changing your name is a big decision, but the process itself doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. A simple deed poll is usually all you need, and by choosing an affordable service, you can keep the costs down while still having peace of mind that your new name will be accepted everywhere that matters.

It’s also worth keeping a little extra in mind for things like delivery and updating your passport, so there are no surprises later. With the right preparation, the whole process can be smooth, affordable, and even quite exciting — it’s the start of a new chapter in your life.

If you’re ready to begin, our service makes it quick, straightforward, and cost-effective.