Using a Chosen Name Socially vs Legally: What’s the Difference?

Changing your name is not always a single, overnight event. For many people, it is a journey that starts with a nickname among friends, moves to social media, and eventually ends with a new passport.

In the UK, the law regarding names is surprisingly flexible. You might be surprised to learn that you can use a chosen name in many areas of your life without signing a single piece of legal paperwork. However, there is a hard line where a "social name" stops and a "legal name" begins.

Whether you are testing out a new name during a gender transition, using a professional stage name, or simply prefer your middle name, here is the difference between using a name socially versus legally.

What is a "Social Name"? (The "Known As" Name)

A social name—often called a "known as" name—is a name you use in your daily life that differs from the name on your birth certificate or passport.

Where can you use it?
You can use a social name in almost any unofficial capacity. You do not need a Deed Poll for:

• Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter do not require legal proof of ID.
• Family and Friends: You can ask anyone to call you whatever you like.
• Work (Email and Badges): Many UK employers are happy to set up your email address and staff ID badge under your chosen name (e.g., "Alex Smith" instead of "Alexandra Smith"). This is considered best practice for inclusion.
• CVs and Job Applications: You can apply for jobs using your chosen name, though you will need to provide your legal name for background checks later.

What is a "Legal Name"?

While the UK doesn't have a strict "legal name" register like some European countries, a "legal name" is practically defined as the name used for your official identity documents and financial records.

Where do you strictly need a Deed Poll?
You cannot use a social name for the following without a Deed Poll (or Marriage Certificate):

• HM Passport Office: Your passport must match your legal documents.
• DVLA (Driving Licence): It is a legal requirement for your licence to reflect your current legal name.
• Banks and Mortgages: Due to anti-money laundering laws, banks must verify your identity against official documents.
• HMRC and Payroll: Your employer may call you "Alex" in the office, but your payslip and P60 must usually list "Alexandra" until you provide a Deed Poll to match your National Insurance records.

The Grey Areas

At the Doctor (NHS)

The NHS is becoming more flexible. You can ask your GP to add a "Known As" note to your file so that staff call you by your preferred name in the waiting room. However, your official medical record will usually remain under your legal name until you provide a Deed Poll.

At University or School

Universities often allow you to have a "preferred name" on your student ID card and class registers. However, your final degree certificate will almost always be issued in your legal name (matching your passport) unless you change it via Deed Poll before graduation.

Why Move from Social to Legal?

Many people live happily for years using a social name while keeping their "official" name for boring admin. However, this "double life" can become frustrating.

• ID Confusion: Picking up a parcel or proving your age can be awkward if your ID says one thing and you introduce yourself as another.
• The "Deadname" on Post: Seeing an old name on bank statements and tax letters can be jarring, especially for those in the trans community.
• Fraud Prevention: Using different names across different financial contracts can sometimes flag up fraud warnings with credit agencies.

Summary Checklist

If you are tired of living with two names and want to align your legal documents with the name everyone actually calls you, a Deed Poll is the bridge.

Ready to make your social name your only name? Contact our team today to order your Deed Poll.