Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Your Name in the UK
Deciding to change your name is a big moment. But once you’ve made the decision, the practical side of actually doing it can feel overwhelming.
There is a lot of conflicting advice online. Do you need a solicitor? Do you need to go to court? Is it expensive?
The good news is that changing your name in the UK is surprisingly straightforward. The legal part takes just minutes. The administrative part (telling everyone else) takes a little longer, but if you follow the right steps in the right order, it’s stress-free.
Here is your definitive, step-by-step road map to legally changing your name.
Step 1: Get Your Legal "Tool" (The Deed Poll)
In the UK, you don't "apply" to the government to change your name. You simply decide to do it, and then you create a legal document proving that decision.
This document is called a Deed Poll (or a "Change of Name Deed").
Think of the Deed Poll as your master key. It is a formal legal statement where you declare three things:
- You are abandoning your old name.
- You will use your new name for all purposes moving forward.
- You require everyone else to address you by your new name.
The "Official Look" Factor
While you can technically write a Deed Poll yourself on a blank piece of paper, we strongly advise against it. Why?
Because bank clerks, the passport office, and the DVLA are trained to look for official documentation. If you hand them a homemade-looking document, they often reject it because they aren't sure if it's "real."
Using a professional service ensures your Deed Poll has the correct legal wording, uses high-quality paper, and includes an official seal. This guarantees it will be accepted without argument.
Step 2: Sign and Witness (Making it Legal)
A Deed Poll is just a piece of paper until you execute it. This is the moment your name legally changes.
When your Deed Poll arrives in the post, you must sign it in the presence of an independent witness. They will then sign it too, adding their name, address, and occupation.
Who can be a witness?
Your witness must be:
- Aged 18 or over.
- An independent person (NOT a relative, partner, or someone you live with).
- Able to speak and understand English.
A neighbour, colleague, friend, or local professional (like a teacher or accountant) are perfect choices. They do not need to be a solicitor.
Step 3: Update Your "Gold Standard" ID
Once your Deed Poll is signed, you are legally "New Name." Now you need the ID to prove it.
Most organisations (like banks) won't change your account based only on a Deed Poll; they also want to see photo ID in the new name. Therefore, your priority is updating your Passport and/or Driving Licence.
You must send your original Deed Poll to these agencies (photocopies are rarely accepted).
Top Tip for Speed: If you only have one Deed Poll, you have to wait for the Passport Office to return it (which can take weeks) before you can send it to the DVLA. We highly recommend ordering multiple duplicate originals when you get your Deed Poll. This allows you to update your Passport, Driving Licence, and Bank all at the same time.
Step 4: The Admin Domino Effect
Once your new passport or driving licence arrives, the hard work is done. Now you just need to go down the list and update everyone else.
Armed with your Deed Poll and your new photo ID, this is usually very fast:
- Banks & Building Societies: Usually requires a quick visit to a local branch.
- Your Employer / HR: For payroll and tax records.
- HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC): You must notify them for National Insurance and tax purposes (this can usually be done online).
- Doctors & Dentist (NHS): Just tell the receptionist next time you visit.
- Utility Companies & Council Tax: Can usually be done over the phone or online chat.
- Electoral Roll: Ensure you are registered to vote under your new name.
Ready to Start Step 1?
Changing your name is a journey, but it starts with a single document. Order your legally guaranteed Deed Poll today and we will dispatch it within 24 hours, so you can get started on Step 2 tomorrow.
