How to notify organisations after a UK name change
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In short. Sign the deed or gather the marriage certificate first, update the GB driving licence for free, then passport, bank, HMRC, employer and NHS, then everything else including the will.
Instant Deed Poll is a document service, not HM Government. Skip a deed if the marriage certificate already shows the exact new surname.
Last reviewed:
·Estimated time: 14 days·Cost: Licence free; adult passport £102 online (check live HMPO fee)What you'll need
- Several wet-ink originals of the deed poll, or the marriage certificate
- Current driving licence and passport
- National Insurance number and Personal Tax Account login
The steps
- 01
Execute the name first
Do not write to anyone until the deed is signed or you have the certificate. Deed hub: deed poll name change.
- 02
Change the driving licence
Post form D1 or D2 with the original deed and current licence. Fine of up to £1,000 if you do not tell DVLA. Guide: change name on driving licence.
- 03
Change the passport
Apply for a new book with the wet-ink deed plus one name-in-use document. Guide: change name on passport.
- 04
Bank, HMRC, employer, NHS
Take the original deed to the bank. Update HMRC in the Personal Tax Account. Give payroll and the GP a copy. Then insurers, pensions, utilities and the council.
- 05
Benefits and the will
Tell Universal Credit, PIP, Child Benefit and the council separately. Re-sign the will in the new name. Checklist: who to notify. Partner list: [Instant Deed Poll who to notify](instantdeedpoll.co.uk/who-to-notify*).
Common pitfalls
- Posting the only signed original without tracking
- Booking travel before the passport in the new name arrives
- Using an England and Wales will template if you live in Scotland
FAQ
- Do I need a notification letter pack?
- No. You can write yourself. Instant Deed Poll’s pack is optional paid stationery, not a legal requirement.