Changing your name by deed poll can be a life-changing and freeing experience for some people. However, there are a number of misconceptions about the deed poll process, which we will look at in this blog.

Misconception – I can’t use a Deed Poll to change my name until I’ve transitioned.

Truth – Completely untrue. It’s crucial to change your name during a transition so you can legally use the name you think best describes you. Waiting till after you’ve transitioned is pointless. For more guidance on changing your name during a transition, you can read our Complete Guide on enrolling a Deed Poll.

Misconception – Deed polls are subject to expiration

Truth – Deed surveys are permanent and once you have changed your name it remains that name unless you change it again. It’s important to remember that some items can overwrite them. For instance, the Deed Poll will be overwritten if you alter your name after getting married or entering into a civil partnership, but only if you want to do so.

Misconception – Anyone can look up my history of name changes.

Truth –  This is largely untrue, and depends entirely on the process you choose. Most people opt for an Unenrolled Deed Poll, which is a private document that is not recorded or published anywhere. For these private changes, no information about your name change will be available to the public. For historical and legal context on deed‑poll name changes and record‑keeping in the UK, refer to the National Archives’ guide on name changes.

However, if you voluntarily choose to Enrol your Deed Poll, the details are published in the London Gazette, making them a matter of public record. Enrolment is a more formal, public, and expensive process that is often not necessary. Additionally, businesses are not permitted to share your private name change information without your consent.

Misconception – You can only use a Deed Poll to alter your name once. 

Truth – You can use a Deed Poll as many times as you choose. Naturally, it is better to choose a name that you are happy with, so you don’t need to change it, but we can’t predict what the future holds. 

Misconception – You can change your name to absolutely anything.

Truth – You can legally change your name to anything you want under UK law. You should keep in mind, though, that businesses have policies regarding names they won’t allow. The Passport Office is one of these. Is there any value in changing it to a name if you can’t use it? Names that are: 

• Difficult or nearly impossible to pronounce
• Offensive
• Connected to criminal activity
• Encouraging racism, homophobia, or any other form of hatred 

You can review the government’s official guidance on changing your name after marriage or partnership here: Gov.uk – Changing Your Name.

In Conclusion

It is always ideal to give it careful thought, even though there aren’t any hard-and-fast rules on when, why, or how to change your name. Making sure you get the most out of your new name requires considering all relevant information and analysing how the name change will affect your life. 

Contact UKDP for Deed Poll services on 0208 0172216.