Deed of Change of Name

Time Saving Tip: The quickest and easiest way to change your name is to Apply For Your Deed Poll Online.

A deed of change of name is a legal document used in the UK to change ones name. It is sometimes referred to as a change of name deed or more commonly simply a Deed Poll.

Once a Deed Poll document has been drawn up it needs to be executed. This means that it is signed and dated and that the signing and dating is witnessed. The person that witnesses the actions need not be a solicitor but must meet the following requirements:

Should be at least 18 years of age.
Should be known to you but be independent of you (e.g. not a family member).
Should not live at the same address as you.
Must be able to speak and read English.

By completing a deed of change of name you are committing yourself to the following three actions:

To renounce and abandon the use of your former name
To use your new name at all times
To require everybody to address you only by your new name

As soon as your deed of change of name has been executed it is effective and can be used to have your records amended to show your new name.

Apply online to change your name by Deed Poll or call 0800 983 0143 for more information.

Site Content:

About Deed Polls	Changing Your Name	Reasons for a Name Change
What is a Deed Poll	Choosing a New Name	Reasons for a Change of Name
Deed of Change of Name	Documentary Evidence	Name Change upon Marriage
Change of Name Deed	Notifying Organisations	Name Change upon Separation
Changing your Name by Usage	Change a child's name	Name Change upon Divorce
Why is it Called a Deed Poll	Parental Responsibility	Name Change for Widows
Who Can Apply for a Deed Poll	Tracing a Name Change	Transsexuals
Legalising a Deed Poll	Updating your Passport	Adding a Middle Name
Name Change by Statutory Declaration	Changing your Birth Certificate	Adoption
Name Change in Scotland	Famous Name Changes	Name Change for Civil Partners