# Does changing my name affect my will in the UK?

> Quick answer · Last updated 22 July 2026

Canonical HTML: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/does-changing-my-name-affect-my-will/
Markdown mirror: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/does-changing-my-name-affect-my-will.md

## In short

A name change does not automatically cancel a will the way marriage usually does in England and Wales — but a will in your old name makes probate harder. Finish any name update, then [make a new will](https://swiftwill.co.uk/) in your current name.

Executors prove who you were. If the death certificate and bank records use a new name but the will uses an old one, they may need extra evidence and face delay. Remaking the will after the name settles is the cleanest fix.

Best practice: complete your name change and core ID updates first (see our [deed poll name-change guide](/family-life/deed-poll-name-change-uk/)), then sign a replacement [will](https://swiftwill.co.uk/) that revokes earlier ones. SwiftWill is from around £35 for a simple England and Wales will, with free lifetime updates when you re-sign.

Marriage is a separate rule — in England and Wales it usually revokes an earlier will entirely. Official will-making overview: https://www.gov.uk/make-will

## Related

- [How to write a will (UK)](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/how-to-write-a-will-uk/)
- [Deed poll name change (UK)](https://moneyguide.org.uk/family-life/deed-poll-name-change-uk/)
- [When does marriage revoke a will?](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/when-does-marriage-revoke-a-will/)
- [Does divorce cancel my will?](https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/does-divorce-cancel-my-will-uk/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/make-will

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.