Common Questions About Changing Your Name by Deed Poll

These days, there are lots of reasons why people decide to change their names. Some people want to change their surname, others are looking to change their first name, and some want to change their name in its entirety. For those who decide they wish to do this, there is a specific process that needs to be followed.

When it comes to changing your name by deed poll, people sometimes find the process quite complicated and difficult to understand. In actual fact, it has become a lot easier, as you can now make your application online and obtain information about the process from the comfort of your own home. People often ask questions such as how much does it cost to change your name or how long does it take to complete the process. Well, in this article, we will look at some of the more common questions.

Some of the Top Questions Asked by Consumers

Changing your name for whatever reason can be a big step, so you naturally want to ensure you get it right. Learning more about the process can make things less stressful as well as helping to speed things up a little. Below are some common questions relating to the process:

Is a Deed Poll a Certificate of a Name Change?

Some people believe that a deed poll is a document that basically confirms their name change by was of certification. However, this is not a certificate of name change but a legal document that provides proof of your name change or intention of changing your name. There are three areas of declaration that form part of the document, and these relate to giving up your old name, using your new name, and allowing others to refer to you by the new name. The document also has to be witnessed and signed to make it legal.

Can I Switch Back to My Old Name if I wish?

While changing your name might seem like a great idea at the time, there are cases where people wish to go back to their old names. Likewise, if you have been married and then get divorced, you may want to officially go back to your maiden name. If you wish to change your name back to your former name – or indeed change it to something else altogether – you can do so. However, it will mean going through the deed poll application and process again. You cannot officially go back to using your old name, as you will need to provide proof that you have gone back to your old name to authorities and agencies.

Will a Name Change Affect My Credit Score?

Most people these days know how important it is to have a good credit score and solid credit history. Without this, getting any type of finance such as a mortgage, car loan, or credit card, can become very difficult. Some are concerned that changing their name by deed poll could result in their credit score being negatively affected, but this is not the case. So, you do not have to worry about your name change having any negative impact on your credit rating.

How Do I Make a Deed Poll Application?

These days, making a deed poll application is far simpler than it was in the past, as you can do it from the comfort of your own home by going online. This can save you a lot of time and inconvenience, and it means you can go through it at a time that suits you. Once you have made your application and paid, the documentation is then sent out to you within several days. You then need to check it and sign it as well as get it witnessed and signed by the witness.

Can I Change My Surname to My Partner’s Surname?

Some people are keen to know if they can change their surname to their partner’s surname but without having to get married. There are couples who do not wish to go to the expense and stress of getting married  but at the same time, they want to have the same name and be seen as a married couple. If this is the case, there is no problem changing your surname by deed poll and some people even change their title to Mrs.

Do Your Research

Changing your name is an important step, and with this in mind, you should ensure you do your research thoroughly before you commence. In addition, make sure you are certain about making this big change in your life and follow the process to the letter. This will help you to avoid any issues arising in the future.