Do You Need a Deed Poll?

A deed poll is used to legally declare to all government agencies and other authorities that you have changed your name. If you want to legally alter or change your name, you are going to need a deed poll. While most name changes require a deed poll, some do not. In some instances, you will not need a deed poll for people to accept your new name legally. Look at the situations below to discover which category you fall under: 

Marriage (Heterosexual and Same-Sex)

 

If you wish to change your surname to that of your spouse’s, you will not require a deed poll. You can simply use your marriage license to alter any records that you want changed. If you wish to keep your surname as well as take on your spouse’s name, however, you are going to require a deed poll. This also applies for spouses who wish to double barrel or combine their names. They, too, will have to get a deed poll. 

Civil Partnership 

 

Much like with marriage, those engaged in a civil partnership do not necessarily require a deed poll. A Civil Partnership Certificate in most instances will be more than enough to get various records altered. However, like with marriage, there are different regulations if you want to keep your surname or combine last names. In these cases, either one or both of the individuals are going to have to get a deed poll. 

Divorce 

 

Some people, after they get divorced, may want to go back to using their old surname. This revision depends on the steps that you took when taking on your married name. For instance, if you simply took on the name with the help of a marriage certificate, you will not require a deed poll. You will need your original birth certificate, your marriage certificate, and a signed statement declaring your wishes. If, prior to getting married, you changed your name by deed poll, you will be required to get a deed poll once more. 

Document Changes 

 

A deed poll is only required if you want to use your new name in all aspects of your life. For instance, you may want to sign legal documents, apply for certain services, or get a driver’s license with your new name. If you wish to do this, you are going to need a deed poll to show to all of these various agencies. If you only wish to be called by your chosen name, however, you will not be required to sign up for a deed poll. 

Changing Children’s Names 

 

If you have a child under the age of sixteen, they are considered a minor. You will require a deed poll to change their names. Of course, everyone who has parental responsibility for the child must first consent to the name change. If your child is over the age of sixteen, they can apply for a deed poll by themselves. 

These are the instances in which you will either need a deed poll or will be able to do without one. It is always best to check if your chosen method is right for your situation. It is best to get some legal advice to ensure that you are following the right rules and regulations. 

UK Deed Poll Online Office Ltd
27 Old Gloucester Street
London
WC1N 3AX
Email: support@ukdeedpolloffice.org
https://www.ukdeedpolloffice.org/how-to-change-your-name-with-us/