Step 1: Decide on Your New Name
Before starting the Deed Poll process, choose your new name carefully. Consider:
- Spelling and format — ensure it’s consistent across all documents.
- Professional considerations — think about how your new name will appear in work or academic records.
- Legal restrictions — names cannot contain numbers, symbols, offensive words, or punctuation (other than a hyphen for double-barrelled names).
Once you’ve chosen your new name, you’re ready to start the legal process.
Step 2: Apply for a Deed Poll
There are two main ways to obtain a Deed Poll in the UK:
- Online application through a recognised provider
- Fast, secure, and easy to complete from home.
- Receive a certified and fully recognised Deed Poll suitable for all UK institutions.
- Paper application via the UK Government
- Official option but can take longer.
- May require in-person signing and sending documents by post.
At Change My Name, we provide a quick and secure online process that ensures your Deed Poll is valid, recognised, and ready to use.
Step 3: Sign and Witness the Deed Poll
Once your Deed Poll is prepared:
- Sign the document in the presence of an independent witness.
- Witnesses can be a friend, colleague, or professional — they must not be family members.
- The witness signs the document to confirm it was signed correctly.
This step finalises the legal validity of your name change.
Step 4: Notify Relevant Organisations
After obtaining your Deed Poll, update all your official records to reflect your new name. This may include:
- HM Passport Office — apply for a new passport in your new name.
- DVLA — update your driving licence.
- HMRC — ensure tax and National Insurance records are correct.
- Banks and financial institutions — update accounts, debit/credit cards, loans, and mortgages.
- Employers — payroll and HR records.
- Utilities and services — phone, gas, electricity, and internet providers.
- Healthcare providers — GP, dentist, and other medical records.
Using a certified Deed Poll makes this process smooth, as most organisations will accept it as official proof of your new name.
Step 5: Keep Your Deed Poll Safe
- Store your Deed Poll in a secure place.
- You may need it to update official documents or confirm your identity in the future.
- Make copies for any organisations requesting proof.
A properly completed Deed Poll remains legally binding indefinitely and can be used throughout your life whenever proof of your name change is required.
Step 6: Optional — Notify Additional Records
Beyond essential documents, consider updating:
- Electoral roll and council tax records
- Memberships, subscriptions, and professional organisations
- Travel documents and visas
- Personal records such as wills, insurance, and legal contracts
Updating all relevant records ensures your new name is recognised consistently.
Why Use Change My Name for Your Deed Poll?
- Fully recognised UK Deed Polls suitable for HM Passport Office, DVLA, banks, and employers.
- Fast and secure online application with step-by-step guidance.
- Printed and signed document delivered to your home.
- Same-day processing if submitted before 3 PM (Mon–Fri).
We simplify the name change process, making it stress-free, legal, and officially recognised for all purposes.
Take the First Step Today
Changing your name is easy and fully legal with a recognised Deed Poll. Apply online with Change My Name and complete your name change quickly, securely, and confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Only if you’re creating a new name, combining surnames, or reverting to a name not covered by official documents, like a marriage certificate.
Most online applications are processed the same day or within 24 hours, with printed documents delivered shortly after.
Yes, with parental consent. Special considerations apply for children under 16.
