Changing your name can be an exciting journey! Whether you’re joining in marriage, embracing a fresh start after divorce, or simply yearning to express your identity, there are ways to make that change official. Remember, it’s all about what feels right for you.
If you are over 16, you can change your name simply by starting to use your new one. However, updating your name on important documents such as your passport, driving license, or bank account may be challenging without legal proof of the change. You must contact each relevant organization directly, as no central form is available to notify all agencies of your name change. Here are some key places and documents you will need to update if you decide to change your name:
- Your Passport
- Your Driving License
- Bank accounts
- Your credit cards
- National Health Service (NHS)
- HMRC
- Your mortgage documents
- In your will
How do I change my name following my marriage?
When you get married, you receive a marriage certificate. This document allows you to change your name, take your spouse’s surname, hyphenate both surnames or create a new combined surname.
To change your name on your passport, you must complete the appropriate form online or request a paper copy from the post office. You must then send this form along with your marriage certificate.
The same process applies to changing your name on your driving license; the necessary forms are available online.
You must present your marriage certificate to update your name on your bank account, with your building society, or at any other financial institution. Most institutions should be able to process the change quickly.
How do I change my name following a civil partnership?
This works like changing your name following marriage, using the same forms.
Can I change my name on my passport before my honeymoon?
You obtain a form called “Passports for Newlyweds and Civil Partners” from the Post Office or online and then submit it with your passport. You are legally allowed to travel under your previous name; however, if you wish to travel under your new name immediately after your wedding, you may need to apply up to three months in advance.
I am now divorced and want to change my name back to my maiden name. You won’t be able to change your name after your divorce until you have received your absolute decree, and you will also need your marriage certificate. If you want to change it immediately, you can do so by clicking the deed poll.
What is a deed poll?
A deed poll is a legal document expressing an intention and is most commonly used for changing a name. “Deed” refers to a legal undertaking, while “poll” means document. When you change your name by deed poll, you must make several declarations:
- You will cease to use your previous name.
- You will always use your new name.
- You wish others would address you solely by your new name.
To complete the process, you must sign the document twice: once with your old name and once with your new name. Additionally, two independent witnesses are required to witness the document. Consider consulting a specialist deed poll solicitor for assistance if you have any doubts.
Can I use any name that I want?
You can choose any name you like, but there are certain restrictions. Your new name must be pronounceable in at least one language, include both a first name and a surname, and not be on the list of names excluded by the Home Office.
Do I need a solicitor?
While you can change your name by deed poll, it is advisable to use the services of a solicitor. A solicitor can help ensure that the document is completed correctly and that the name change meets all legal requirements. Contact us for more information on how we can assist you with a name change and other family matters.