Change your name by deed poll and update records

Use this guide if you want to change your first name, surname or both, other than simply taking a spouse's surname after marriage. Have your current ID, a list of accounts and organisations and your chosen new name written exactly as you want it.

Step by step

1. Decide which kind of deed poll you need

   In England and Wales, if you are 16 or over you can make your own deed poll (called unenrolled) and start using it, and most organisations accept this. If you are 18 or over, you can also enrol your deed poll with the courts to put the change on public record, which is optional and involves a fee. If you were born in Scotland, different rules apply, so check GOV.UK or the National Records of Scotland.