Our helpline is open Monday – Friday | 9am – 6pm.
Same Day Processing Available
Our helpline is open Monday – Friday | 9am – 6pm.
Same Day Processing Available
Your Name Change Options After Divorce – Legal Rights & Options
Many women choose to return to their maiden name, while others may opt for a completely new name. For men, a name change is less common, but it is still an option. Understanding the legal process ensures a smooth transition when updating your identification and official records.
Depending on the institution, you may be able to update your name using your decree absolute and marriage certificate, while some organisations require a Deed Poll.
If your decree absolute is not accepted as sufficient evidence, a Deed Poll will be needed to ensure universal recognition of your name change. Additionally, if you wish to change your first or middle names, a Deed Poll is always required.
If you have children, changing their surname requires the consent of everyone with parental responsibility, including your ex-spouse. You also have the option to update your title from Mrs to Miss or Ms, which does not require a Deed Poll.
Use your decree absolute and marriage certificate, but some organisations may require a Deed Poll.
A Deed Poll is required if changing to a name other than your maiden name.
Parental consent is needed for any surname change involving children.
If you are looking to change to a name that is different from your maiden name you will need a Deed Poll. The new deed poll can be used as evidence of your new name to update various official documents.
Apply for a new Deed Poll with UK Deed Poll Service. The UK’s first Deed Poll Service company.
Whether reverting to a previous name, adopting a new surname, or removing a double-barrelled name taken during marriage, a Deed Poll is usually required to ensure all organisations recognise the change. Updating official documents, such as a passport, driving licence, and financial records, is essential to maintain consistency and avoid complications.
If a man took his wife’s surname during marriage, notifying banks, employers, and government agencies of the change will help ensure a smooth transition.
Once you’ve legally changed your name after divorce, it is crucial to update all official documents and records to maintain consistency. Delays in updating records can lead to issues with identification, financial transactions, and travel.
Key Documents to Update:
Apply through HM Passport Office and the DVLA to ensure your identification reflects your new name.
Notify your bank, mortgage provider, and credit card companies to prevent account discrepancies.
Inform HMRC to update tax records, National Insurance details, and pension contributions.
Ensure your GP, NHS records, employer, and payroll system reflect your new name.
Update your name on council tax, utility bills, insurance policies, and legal contracts.
Some organisations may accept your decree absolute as proof of name change, while others will require a Deed Poll for verification.
A decree absolute can be requested from the Principal Registry of the Family Division or the county court where the divorce was finalised, while a marriage certificate can be ordered from the General Register Office for England and Wales. Having these documents ready will help streamline the name change process and prevent unnecessary delays.
UK Deed Poll Service is not a government agency. We are a specialist deed poll agency that has issued over 800,000 unenrolled deed polls since 2001. We do not offer enrolled deed polls as an unenrolled deed poll is quicker, cheaper and confidential. You can make your own unenrolled deed poll yourself should you wish to.
© All Rights Reserved 2024 | UK Deed Poll Service Limited t/a Deed Polls Online | Cookie & Privacy Policy
