Change Your Name After Marriage

Your Name Change Options After Marriage – Legal Rights & Choices for Couples

Marriage doesn’t automatically change your surname; both partners can choose how to proceed.

While tradition often sees women taking their husband’s surname, modern options allow for flexibility. Men can also choose to change their surname or combine it with their spouse’s. Whether you wish to adopt a new surname, create a double-barrelled surname, or retain your original name, understanding the legal options can help ensure a smooth transition.

Marriage does not legally change a woman’s surname—she has complete freedom to decide whether to keep, modify, or change her name. You can decide to keep your maiden name, adopt your husband’s surname, or choose a combination that best reflects your personal and professional identity.

Some changes can be made using your marriage certificate alone, while other options require a Deed Poll for legal recognition. It’s important to consider how each option will affect your career, family connections, and personal preferences.

Careful research and understanding of the legal process will ensure your new name is accepted by all record holders. Below are the most common legal options available:

Taking Husband’s Surname

Update your official records using your marriage certificate.

Double-Barrelled

Combine surnames with or without a hyphen (may need a Deed Poll).

Keeping Maiden

No legal steps needed; you can continue using your maiden name as usual.

Unlike women, men traditionally keep their surname after marriage, but they also have the legal right to change it.

Whether adopting their spouse’s surname, double-barrelling, or creating a new surname, a Deed Poll is often required for official recognition. Understanding the legal process ensures a smooth transition when updating passports, bank accounts, and other official documents.

Updating Official Documents and Records

Once you’ve decided to change your name after marriage, it’s essential to update your official documents to ensure consistency across all legal and financial records. Failing to do so can lead to complications when travelling, banking, or handling administrative matters.

Key Documents to Update:

Passport & Driving Licence

Apply for a name change through HM Passport Office and the DVLA to avoid travel disruptions.

Bank & Financial Accounts

Notify your bank, building society, and credit card providers to update your records and prevent issues with transactions.

HMRC & National Insurance

Inform HMRC to ensure tax records, National Insurance contributions, and state pension details remain accurate.

Medical & Payroll Records

Update your name with the NHS, GP, dentist, and employer to maintain consistency in medical and payroll systems.

Utility Bills & Memberships

Change your name on council tax, utility bills, insurance policies, and any subscriptions to prevent discrepancies.

To Note:

Some organisations may accept your decree absolute as proof of name change, while others will require a Deed Poll for verification.

Alongside changing a surname, many individuals choose to update their title after marriage. This is entirely optional, and there are no legal requirements to do so.

Some prefer to take the title “Mrs” after marriage, while others may opt for “Ms” to maintain a neutral status. For those who do not wish to specify their marital status, “Ms” remains a widely accepted alternative. Additionally, “Mx” is an increasingly recognised gender-neutral title that some individuals prefer.

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