Can I Use a Deed Poll to Go Back to My Previous Name?

trusteddeedpoll.co.uk

4 days ago

3 min read

Changing your name doesn't always mean choosing a completely new one.

Sometimes, you simply want to return to a name you've used before.

Perhaps you've divorced or ended a civil partnership, previously changed your name and later changed your mind, or simply feel that your former name is the right one for you.

So, can you use a Deed Poll to change back to a previous name?

Can I change back to a previous name by Deed Poll?

Yes. A Deed Poll can provide evidence of your decision to stop using your current name and use another name instead — and that can be a name you've used previously.

However, depending on why you're returning to your former name, you may not always need a Deed Poll.

Going back to your previous name after divorce

If you want to return to your original name following a divorce or the dissolution of a civil partnership, it's worth checking the requirements of the organisations you need to update before obtaining a Deed Poll.

GOV.UK states that you may be able to change your records back by showing organisations your marriage certificate and final divorce order, or your civil partnership certificate and final order.

However, some organisations may still require a Deed Poll. GOV.UK

Checking first could therefore save you unnecessary time and expense.

What if I changed my name before and simply want to change it back?

Marriage and divorce aren't the only reasons someone might want to return to a previous name.

Perhaps you changed your first name or surname in the past but have since decided you'd prefer to use your former name again.

A Deed Poll can be used as evidence of your change from the name you currently use to the name you now wish to adopt.

GOV.UK confirms that a Deed Poll is a legal document proving a change of name and that, subject to the applicable rules, you can change parts of your name, add or remove names, or alter the spelling. GOV.UK

Do my records change automatically?

No.

Completing a Deed Poll doesn't automatically update your details everywhere.

You'll still need to contact the organisations that hold your information and ask them to update their records.

Depending on your circumstances, this could include organisations such as:

HM Passport Office
DVLA
HMRC
your bank or building society
your employer
GP and other healthcare providers
insurance companies
utility providers
your local council

Each organisation can have its own procedure and evidence requirements, so it's sensible to check what they need before sending any documents.

Can I use my Deed Poll straight away?

Once an unenrolled Deed Poll has been properly completed and signed, GOV.UK says it can be used straight away as evidence of your new name. GOV.UK

You'll then be able to begin contacting the relevant organisations to update your records, subject to their individual requirements.

Should I order additional original copies?

How many copies you need will depend on your circumstances.

Additional originals can be convenient if you're updating several organisations, particularly if you need to send documents to different places around the same time.

With Trusted Deed Poll, your first Deed Poll costs £15, and additional original copies are £2 each.

Standard UK delivery is FREE.

Changing your name with Trusted Deed Poll

Whether you're choosing a completely new name or returning to one you've used before, we aim to make the process simple, secure and straightforward.

Your first Deed Poll — £15Additional original copies — £2 eachFREE UK deliveryApply online from homeSecure online checkoutProfessionally prepared documents

Trusted Deed Poll Ltd is registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), and our website uses 256-bit SSL encryption to help protect your information.

Our website and application process are also available in English, Polish, Romanian and Urdu.