Provided that you are over 18 and are able to make a Declaration (see later), there is nothing to stop you changing your name.

Facts about changing your name

• A woman who marries doesn’t have to take her husband’s surname, unless she wants to.
• A man who marries can take his wife’s name if he wants to
• A couple who marry can choose any new names or surname they like, including combining their pre-marriage surnames
• You can call yourself “Mickey Mouse” if you want to
• You can’t change the surname of a child under 18 UNLESS both parents agree or a Court Orders that it can happen
• Your new name cannot be vulgar or offensive, nor indicate that you hold a professional or other title (e.g. Doctor, Professor, Lord, Viscount, Sir) to which you are not entitled.
• You can change your name as often and as many times as you like.
• Follow the correct procedure for changing your name so it doesn’t appear you are acting fraudulently
• You don’t need complicated deeds or to follow a lengthy procedure – using our pack it will take just a few minutes!

There are 2 ways that you can change your name:

• By making a Statutory Declaration – this is the easiest procedure
• By a Deed Poll

Statutory Declaration

So, you want to change your name, let’s tell you about how easy this process really is. It’s quick and painless and low cost.

You just need to decide your new name, tell us your new chosen name and address and we’ll supply you with a simple document and an easy pack.

• Take that document to a local solicitor who will charge you a small Declaration fee (under £10)
• Make your declaration – you can do this if you are over 18 and understand what you are doing – you simply confirm, in front of a solicitor, using our easy form, that you are now going to be known by a new name
• So that everyone knows about your name change, follow the directions in our pack for letting everyone know
• Use your new name!

Deed Poll

What is a Deed Poll?

A Deed Poll is an official process to change your name and an alternative to a Statutory Declaration. This pack can only be used by an adult, someone aged 18 or over, who is permanently resident in the UK. A Deed Poll can be enrolled but it is not necessary to do so. This pack allows you to make the choice.

What is enrolling?

This is simply a process to register your Deed Poll. A Deed Poll can be registered at the Supreme Court in London (Central Office) as a public record and the details of the Deed Poll are also published in the London Gazette. The court charges a fee for the enrolling process.