Deed polls are often the subject of misinformation, which can deter people from using them. However, if you want to change your name legally, a deed poll is the standard way to do it, and the process is not complicated at all. Here, we look at some of the most common myths about changing your name via deed poll to get you up to speed.
Myth: A deed poll must be enrolled
Nope, you do not have to enrol a deed poll at all. Unenrolled deed polls carry the same legal weight as enrolled ones, and most people find an unenrolled one is perfectly sufficient for updating their documents. Using a trusted deed poll application service can help ensure your documents are prepared correctly and accepted by official organisations.
Myth: Your witnesses must be people you’ve known for ten years
You do not need to have known your witnesses for a predetermined amount of time. To be a valid witness, the person must be:
- At least 18 years old
- Independent (not a family member, a spouse, or someone you live with)
- Someone who knows who you are and has full mental capacity
You can also review official UK deed poll guidance for further legal information on changing your name.
Myth: A deed poll cannot be used abroad
Not true, but you must first have your deed poll legalised before using it overseas. Legalisation (often involving an apostille) is simply the official process of getting a document issued in one nation legally accepted in another.
Myth: I need a deed poll to change my title
Another no. You can change your social title (e.g., Mr., Miss, Ms) whenever you like, because it is not legally part of your name. However, you cannot use a professional or qualifying title, such as Dr., unless you have actually earned the qualification.
Myth: I need a deed poll to revert to my maiden name
If your spouse has passed away, you can return to using your maiden name simply by presenting both their death certificate and your marriage (or civil partnership) certificate. Similarly, when changing back after a divorce, you can use your birth certificate, marriage certificate, and your Decree Absolute (or final divorce order) instead of a deed poll.
Myth: I must have transitioned before changing my name
False. Legally changing your name is often a significant turning point in your transition, and there is no need to wait until after medical or social transition to complete it. In fact, if you are applying for a Gender Recognition Certificate later on, having documents in your new name helps prove that you have been living as your chosen gender for the required two-year period.
Myth: I can only change my name using a deed poll once
Theoretically, if you wanted to, you could change your name multiple times. While you can legally alter your name whenever you want, you should only do so if you genuinely plan to live by and use that new name.
For help changing your name via Deed Poll, contact DeedPoll.com on 020 8017 2216.
