What is a deed Poll?
Understanding the Meaning and Process of a UK Name Change
Navigating a change of name can seem like a complex process, but at its heart lies a simple, powerful document: the Deed Poll. If you've been searching for the "Deed Poll meaning" or asking "What is a Deed Poll?", you've come to the right place. This guide will explain everything you need to know about this important legal document and how you can use it to complete your own "Deed Poll name change" smoothly and effectively.
Deed Poll Meaning
So, what is a Deed Poll? A Deed Poll is a specific type of legal document that acts as a formal declaration of your intention to change your name. It is not a certificate you receive from a government body, but rather a deed you create yourself, or have created for you, to officially renounce your old name and adopt a new one.
Think of it as a legally binding statement. By signing it in the presence of witnesses, you are committing to using your new name for all purposes from that day forward. This single document becomes your primary piece of evidence, which you can then present to all relevant organisations—from the Passport Office to your bank—as proof of your new identity. When you "change name by deed poll," you are using this self-declared deed to make your new name official in the eyes of UK institutions.
The True "Deed Poll Meaning": A Declaration of Intent
The deeper "Deed Poll meaning" goes beyond just a piece of paper. The term itself breaks down into two parts:
Deed: In law, a deed is one of the most solemn and binding types of legal instrument. Unlike a simple contract, a deed is a statement made by one party to the world, binding them to its contents. It signifies a serious, formal commitment.
Poll: Historically, "poll" referred to a document that was "polled" or cut straight at the top, signifying it was a single, unilateral declaration, as opposed to an indented document which represented an agreement between two or more parties.
Therefore, the "Deed Poll meaning" is that of a "single, formal, legally binding declaration." It is your personal, public announcement that you have adopted a new name. This is why it is recognised and accepted by UK government departments, financial institutions, and other official bodies. The power of the "Deed Poll name change" comes from this formal act of self-declaration.
Unenrolled Deed Poll
When you research how to "change name by deed poll," you will likely encounter the terms "enrolled" and "unenrolled." For the vast majority of people in the UK, an unenrolled Deed Poll is all that is required.
An unenrolled Deed Poll is a Deed Poll that is simply created, signed by you, and witnessed by independent individuals. It is a private but legally recognised document that is accepted by the majority of UK organisations, including:
- HM Passport Office
- DVLA
- All UK banks and building societies
- HMRC and NHS
- Employers and utility companies
Enrolling a Deed Poll, by contrast, involves submitting it to the Royal Courts of Justice to be recorded in the public records. This process is more complex, more expensive, and makes your change of name a matter of public record, accessible to anyone. Unless there is a specific legal reason requiring it, an "unenrolled deed poll" offers the same power and recognition for all standard purposes without the cost and public exposure of enrolment. Learn more about enrolled Vs unenrolled
How to Change Name by Deed Poll
The process for a "Deed Poll name change" is straightforward:
- Obtain Your Deed Poll: You can have a Deed Poll professionally drafted by a specialist service. This ensures the wording is correct and will be accepted by all official bodies.
- Execute the Deed Poll: You must sign and date your Deed Poll in the presence of two independent witnesses. The witnesses must also sign and provide their names, addresses, and occupations. They cannot be family members or partners.
- Notify Organisations: Once your Deed Poll is executed, you can begin the process of notifying all relevant organisations. You will need to send them your original Deed Poll document as proof of your name change. Learn more about how it works
How We Can Help
Ready to change your name? Deed Poll Direct offers a fast and affordable online service for a professionally drafted unenrolled Deed Poll. We guarantee our legally compliant documents will be accepted by all UK organisations, making your name change simple and worry-free. Apply Now!