FAQs - Change Of Name By Deed Poll

A document that is accepted as proof of name change by all government departments and other institutions and bodies.

No, birth certificates cannot be changed, (although there are very limited and time restricted options to correct errors soon after birth). Errors on birth certificates are a common reason for changing names by deed poll.

Yes, just send the Deed Poll document with your application form.

Yes, just show them your Deed Poll.

Yes if they are under 16 years old. Between the ages of 16 and 18 they must agree.

If you were married when the child was born, fathers have a joint parental responsibility and must agree to the change. (If the father cannot be found the name can be changed but it must be done via a solicitor.)

If you were not married when the child was born, then the mother alone can change the family name, UNLESS the father has parental responsibility or there is a court restriction in place.

No. In the past, registration was required, but this is no longer the case.

No. You revoke the option to use your previous name.

Provided no fraud or deception is involved and the name is not offensive, you can choose any name you want. We reserve the right to refuse to issue a Change of Name by Deed Poll if we consider the chosen name could be offensive or used for fraud or deception.

Only if a solicitor certifies the copies. A cheaper option is to have a number of identically signed and witnessed Deed Polls. Overall, this is a quicker and cheaper option.