Ready to start your name change journey?
Ordering a Deed Poll through Change My Name is one of the simplest and fastest ways to make your new name official.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to change your name with a Deed Poll, when you need one, how to apply, and what to expect.
If you’re ready to go, you can begin your application right now:
What is a Deed Poll?
A Deed Poll is a document that proves you’ve changed your name and intend to use it from now on.
You can use it to update your details with banks, government bodies, your employer, and on ID such as your passport, driving licence, and more.
A Deed Poll confirms:
- You have adopted a new name
- You no longer use your former name
- The date your new name came into effect
Do You Need a Deed Poll?
When You Don’t Need a Deed Poll
You may not need one if an official document already proves your name change, such as:
- After marriage: If your UK marriage certificate shows your maiden name and your new surname
- After divorce: If your divorce took place in the UK and you have your decree absolute
When You Do Need a Deed Poll
Most other name changes will require a Deed Poll, such as:
- You’re changing your name by choice
- You’re adopting a new name for cultural, religious, or personal reasons
- You’ve undergone a gender change
- You’ve lost your marriage certificate, or it’s not in English
- You’re applying for a passport under a different name than appears on your birth certificate
In cases like these, a Deed Poll provides clear, official proof of your new identity.
How to Apply for a Deed Poll
Changing your name is easy with Change My Name. Just follow these three simple steps:
Complete the Online Application
Fill out our secure online form with your personal details. You can pay using credit/debit card or PayPal through our encrypted checkout.
Receive Your Deed Poll by Post
Apply before 3 PM Monday to Friday and we’ll dispatch your Deed Poll and any certified copies within two working days, sent by First Class post.
Sign in Front of Witnesses
You’ll receive full instructions with your documents on how to execute your Deed Poll, meaning you’ll need two witnesses to observe you signing the document to make it official.
That’s it! Once signed and witnessed, your Deed Poll becomes valid and ready to be used for updating your official records.
Who Can Witness a Deed Poll?
Your witnesses must meet the following criteria:
- Over 18 years old
- UK residents
- Know who you are personally
- Must not be a close relative, partner, or housemate
- Must be mentally capable of understanding the role
- Must physically watch you sign the document
Suitable options include a friend, neighbour, or colleague who meets the above criteria.
Age Requirements for Changing Your Name
- 16 or older: You can apply independently, although parents may object before you turn 18 (in rare cases).
- Under 16: A parent or guardian must apply on your behalf, and all individuals with parental responsibility must agree to the name change.
How Many Certified Copies Do I Need?
There’s no set rule, but most people need around 10 certified copies to update their records efficiently. Each organisation typically requires a certified copy to update their system.
We offer discounted rates on additional copies when you order at the same time as your Deed Poll.
FAQs
About Deed Polls
Our offficial Deed Poll costs £19.95 for adults and children.
We guarantee our Deed Polls will be accepted by all UK government departments, banks, and other institutions or your money back, 100% guaranteed.
You’ll need to update your details with a range of organisations. We provide a full checklist when you order, but here are some common ones:
- HM Passport Office
- DVLA
- HMRC
- Local council
- Land Registry
- Your employer
- Banks and pension providers
- Mortgage or credit card companies
Our Name Change Kit makes it easy to manage this process and save hours of admin time.
- Apply before 3 PM (Mon–Fri) and we’ll dispatch your Deed Poll within two working days.
- Once you receive it, sign it with your witnesses
- Then begin notifying institutions and updating your documents
Our Name Change Kit can fast-track your updates and provide letter templates and guidance for each organisation.
Yes, there are a few rules. You cannot choose a name that:
- Is offensive, vulgar, or defamatory
- Could confuse (e.g., includes symbols or numbers)
- Appears to promote criminal activity
- Contains slurs or discriminatory terms
- Uses non-standard punctuation
- It is overly political or promotional
- Uses unofficial titles (like “Lord”, unless peerage is granted)
Acceptable titles include Mr, Mrs, Miss, Ms, and Mx.
