How to Change Your Name

After divorce, many people choose to revert to their maiden name or a previous surname. The process is straightforward but involves updating a surprising number of documents and accounts.

What you need

You can use your decree absolute (final divorce order) as proof of your name change when reverting to your maiden name. You do not need a deed poll for this, your divorce certificate and your birth certificate together are sufficient for most purposes.

If you wish to change to a completely different name (not your maiden name), you will need a deed poll.

What to update

• Passport, apply for a new passport using your decree absolute
• Driving licence, notify the DVLA
• Bank accounts, notify each bank directly
• HMRC, update your name with HMRC and any pension providers
• Electoral register, notify your local council
• GP and healthcare providers
• Employer and pension provider
• Mortgage or tenancy agreement
• Utilities and household accounts
• Social media and email accounts

Children's surnames

You cannot change your children's surnames without the consent of everyone with parental responsibility, or a court order. This is a separate process from changing your own name.

Changing your name formally

In England and Wales, you do not need a deed poll to change your name. Your divorce certificate is sufficient evidence to update most records if you are reverting to a previous surname. For a completely new name, a deed poll makes the process simpler. An enrolled deed poll is recorded at the Royal Courts of Justice. An unenrolled deed poll is equally legally valid for most practical purposes.

What to update and in what order

Start with your passport and driving licence as these are often required as ID to update other records:

• Passport and driving licence (DVLA)
• Bank accounts and financial institutions
• Employer and pension providers
• HMRC and National Insurance records
• Electoral register, GP, dentist, and medical records
• Utility companies and subscription services