How to change your name
In the UK anyone may legally change their name without drawing up a formal record. However, in order for your new name to be officially accepted by organisations such as banks, building societies and the Passport Agency, an official 'change of name deed' may be required.
Your birth certificate will not change: the name deed will run alongside your birth certificate and you should keep both documents together at all times.
Most places and organisations will now accept a change of name deed. However, if you require one for a specific purpose we advise you to check that this document will be acceptable.
How to request a change of name deed
Firstly, you must be a British citizen who is over the age of 18.
You can obtain a change of name deed by making an appointment at any of our main register offices. The process will usually take up to half an hour. This includes the preparation and production of two officially stamped and signed change of name deeds. For a small charge further copies can be obtained within 12 months of your original appointment.
You will be required to attend the appointment in person and produce the following documents:
- proof of identity – either your full birth certificate (showing parents’ names) or your current passport
- proof of address – a recent bank statement or utility bill showing your correct address (to be recorded in the change of name deed).
Please note: We only keep change of name deed records for 12 months. After a year, paper copies are shredded and information will be deleted from our computer records. If, you require more copies of your document after these 12 months have passed, you would have to have a fresh change of name deed drawn up and the full fee for the service at that time would apply.
Cost
The fee for name deed is £50.
