Before you begin the process of changing your name, you will want to consider your eligibility. Any UK citizen over the age of 16 can change their name as long as it is not for fraudulent purposes. If you’re under 16, everyone with parental responsibilities must first consent.
Our simple and efficient deed poll application service makes legally changing your name effortless and hassle-free. If you’re wondering what a deed poll is or would like to expand your knowledge on the legal requirements for changing an adult or child’s name, see below for more extensive insight. For more information or further questions, contact Charles Burges Deed Poll today.
A Deed Poll is a legal form that officially acknowledges a person’s change of name. It is a formal discloser from an individual to publicly state their new name and to request that all relevant groups, such as government agencies and banks, acknowledge the change.
You can order a Deed Poll through us in three simple steps:
Fill out our online application.
Receive your Deed Poll (including any certified copies) via first class post.
Have one witness sign your Deed Poll.
Your witness must be a UK resident over the age of 18, who can confirm who you are. They also must be independent of you, such as a friend, co-worker or neighbour (not a relative or partner).
You will also want to consider what you want to change your name to and ensure it is compatible with any restrictions. Some things you need to think about include:
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The answer to this will vary case-by-case. The actual changing of your name can be done in as little as 24-hours but do be aware changing your name with relevant government bodies and utilities can extend this. So, on average it can take around 3-8 weeks.
There are a number of most common groups or organisations you will need to inform about a name change. These include:
You will need to consider how many copies of your Deed Poll you’ll need to notify all the organisations connected to you. The number will depend on how quickly you want this process to be complete. You will need to wait until a Deed Poll is returned to you before you’re able to forward it on to someone else. Otherwise, the more copies you have, the more you can send out to various people.
No, you do not legally need a specific reason to change your name in the UK. You have the freedom to change your name at any time, for any reason, as long as it’s not for fraudulent purposes.
A deed poll is a legal document that proves a change of name. In the UK, an unenrolled deed poll is widely accepted by banks, government bodies, and other organisations. It does not need to be enrolled through the Royal Courts of Justice to be valid. This makes unenrolled deed polls a quick, easy and effective way to legally change your name.
Yes, you can change your name as many times as you like, provided each change is for legitimate purposes and properly documented through a new deed poll each time.
Yes, once changed via deed poll, your new name is legally yours. Attempting to deny services or recognition due to your new name (when correctly documented) could potentially constitute discrimination, especially in cases involving protected characteristics such as gender or religion.
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Apply for an adult or child deed poll with our easy-to-understand application process
