Changing Your Name In The UK

September 18, 2024

A Guide to Changing Your Name via an Unenrolled or Enrolled Deed Poll:

1. Access the Template:

Visit the UK Government website page on deed polls.
Select the option for an unenrolled deed poll.
You’ll find a template there (alternatively, some social media platforms may provide similar templates, such as Instagram).

2. Personalise the Template:

Download and copy the template, then modify the text in the brackets with your personal details, such as your old and new name.
This can also include any title changes (e.g., from Miss to Mr, or vice versa).

3. Print and Sign:

Once you've filled in your personalised deed poll template, print it. While it's not mandatory, it's recommended to print on cardstock or good-quality paper.
Sign the document and have two witnesses sign as well. Your witnesses can be any two people who know you but must not be related to you.

4. Make Multiple Copies:

Print at least 10 copies of the signed deed poll. You'll need these because many places do not accept photocopies of the deed poll.
Ensure that all copies are signed by both you and your witnesses.

5. Using Your Deed Poll:

Your unenrolled deed poll can be used to update various documents, such as your driving licence, passport, and bank cards.
All UK government departments are legally required to accept an unenrolled deed poll as proof of a name change.

6. Updating Government Documents:

For most government documents, you can apply to change your name by post, including a copy of your deed poll with the application.
If changing your passport, you can apply online, but you’ll need to mail your old passport and a signed deed poll as supporting evidence.

7. Changing Private Company Records:

Private companies, like banks, are not obligated to accept an unenrolled deed poll, but most do.
If you encounter any issues, you may opt to have a solicitor prepare the deed poll for you. Solicitors usually charge around £100 (prices may vary).

8. Recommendation:

It’s helpful to first change your driving licence, as you can use it as proof of identity when updating your name with other organisations or companies.

Enrolled Deed Polls: What They Are and Why They’re Not Essential

What is an Enrolled Deed Poll?

An enrolled deed poll is a legal document that is officially registered with the courts. When you enroll your deed poll, it becomes part of the public record, and the name change is published in The Gazette (the official public record for the UK).

Why It’s Not Essential:

Enrolling your deed poll is not a requirement to change your name in the UK. An unenrolled deed poll carries the same legal weight when it comes to changing your name and can be used to update all your official documents, such as your passport, driving licence, and bank accounts. The UK government and most private organisations will accept an unenrolled deed poll as proof of your name change.

When Would You Use an Enrolled Deed Poll?

The main reasons to opt for an enrolled deed poll might include:

Public Record: Some people may prefer their name change to be part of an official public record.
Increased Credibility: While rare, a small number of private organisations may be more inclined to accept an enrolled deed poll over an unenrolled one.

Cost and Process:

Enrolling your deed poll comes with additional steps and a fee, which is currently around £42.44 (as September 2024). You would also need to submit your application to the Royal Courts of Justice. Given that most places accept an unenrolled deed poll, this extra process is often unnecessary for most people.

Conclusion:

While enrolled deed polls offer an added layer of formality, they are not required for legally changing your name. An unenrolled deed poll is simpler, faster, and free, making it the more common and practical choice for most people.

*Please visit other blog posts for guides on how to change your name on official documents*

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