Changing your name in the UK is a
straightforward process that can be done for a variety of personal reasons.
Whether you've recently changed your name and need additional copies of your
deed poll, or you're considering a legal name change, the convenient way is to
stay in touch with experts and get precise solutions. Some of the recognised
agencies are working in this domain to solve your queries, “how to re-order your deed poll, or change your name
online in the UK”.
First of all, you should know about the deed
poll and its importance.
A deed poll is a legal document that officially
recognises your new name. It’s primarily used to inform organisations like
banks, the DVLA, HMRC, and others that your name has changed. A deed poll is
not required for every name change in the UK—if you’re getting married or
divorced, for example, you can change your name with your marriage or divorce
certificate. However, if you’re changing your name for other reasons, a deed
poll is necessary.
How to Legally Change
Your Name in the UK
Changing your name by deed poll is a simple
procedure that can be done by most UK citizens. Here's how the process works.
Choose the name you want to be known by. You
cannot use a name that is offensive, promotes criminal activity, or involves
numbers or symbols (apart from certain punctuation).
You can create your own deed poll or get one
through an official deed poll service or solicitor. You’ll need to sign this in
front of a witness who is not a family member. The witness must also sign it to
validate the document.
Once your deed poll is signed and witnessed,
you’ll need to send it to various organisations to update your name on official
records. This includes your passport, bank accounts, driving licence, utility
companies, and more.
Re-ordering Your Deed
Poll
You may find that you need additional copies of
your deed poll later on, especially if you're dealing with several institutions
that require original documentation.
Request Copies from Your
Provider
If you initially obtained your deed poll
through an official service, they may offer a re-order service for additional
certified copies. Check their website or contact them directly for information
on how to re-order.
Solicitor-Certified
Copies
If you created your own deed poll, you can
still request additional copies. Take your original document to a solicitor who
can create certified copies for you. These certified copies are typically
accepted by most organisations in place of the original.
Lost Deed Polls
If you’ve lost your deed poll, it’s important
to remember that there’s no central government register of name changes by deed
poll in the UK. Therefore, you may need to create a new deed poll and go
through the signing and witnessing process again.
Summary: Changing your name by deed poll in the UK is a fairly simple legal procedure, and re-order your deed poll, should you need additional copies, can be done through the service you used or via a solicitor.