When can you change your name to your partner’s?

There is no legal procedure for changing a name; you can simply start to use the new name you have chosen for yourself. However, certain organisations may require notice or evidence of your name change. A solicitor can outline which organisations you must inform, and also assist in any application process they require.

If you wish to take your partner’s name following a civil partnership registration or marriage you can send your civil partnership certificate or marriage certificate to the relevant organisation, for example the Passport Office, with a letter stating your intention to take you civil partner’s or spouse’s name.

Other name changes, such as creating a double-barrelled name or keeping the maiden name as a second name, will require evidence by certain organisations. Therefore it is advisable to obtain evidence of your name change and have this checked by a solicitor. There are a number of ways to obtain evidence. You can make a public announcement in a local or national newspaper stating that you have ceased to use your old name and are using your new name. You can obtain a letter from a responsible person stating that they knew you under your old name and now know you under your new name. Examples of responsible people are GPs, solicitors, priests, or Members of Parliament. If you are not sure how to proceed, a lawyer in family law can advise on the best course of action to take.

The most useful piece of evidence of a name change is a Deed of a Change of Name, or a ‘Deed Poll’. This is a legal document that formally binds an individual to a particular course of action, such as changing their name. It is a formal statement of a name change and requires you to abandon your old name and only use your new name. It is executed by signing and dating it, and having the signing and dated witnessed. All Government departments and organisations accept a Deed Poll as evidence of a name change. A solicitor can assist anyone that wishes to change their name by Deed Poll.

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