Changing Your Name After Marriage in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide

When Emily and I got married in February 2019, she changed her surname, and we quickly learned that it’s far simpler – and cheaper – than many websites suggest. This guide is based on her first-hand experience.

You don’t have to change your name when you marry. Some couples keep their own names, some double-barrel, and some partners both take a new name. If you are changing yours, here’s how to do it.

The Myth: You Don’t Usually Need a Deed Poll

Search “change name after marriage” and you’ll find plenty of companies offering to do it for a fee, or to sell you a deed poll. If you’re simply taking your spouse’s surname, you usually don’t need either.

Your marriage certificate is the key document. Most organisations will update your name for free when you show them the certificate, or send a copy. The main exception is your passport, which has a fee.

If you’re double-barrelling or creating a new surname, some organisations may ask for a deed poll as well, so check with them first.

Order Extra Copies of Your Marriage Certificate

This was the best tip we had. Order two or three copies of your marriage certificate when you register your marriage. Some organisations need to see an original, and having spares means you can update several at once instead of waiting for each one to be posted back.

Who to Tell, and in What Order

1. Passport

If you’re travelling on honeymoon soon after the wedding, book your tickets in the name on your current passport and don’t change your passport until you’re home. Your ticket must match your passport. The gov.uk passport pages explain how to apply, and you’ll need your marriage certificate.

2. Bank and building society

Your bank will need to see your marriage certificate. Once your account is updated, you’ll have bank statements in your new name, which many other organisations accept as proof.

3. Employer

Tell your manager or HR team so they can update payroll, your email and your pension details.

4. HMRC

Tell HMRC about your change of name through gov.uk. Your employer will update your payroll records, but it’s worth letting HMRC know directly too.

5. DVLA

Updating the name on your driving licence and vehicle log book (V5C) is free. Find out how on gov.uk.

6. Everyone else

• Credit card companies and loan providers
• Pension providers
• Your GP and dentist
• Your local council (council tax and the electoral register)
• Utility, phone and broadband providers
• Insurance companies
• Mortgage lender or landlord
• Loyalty schemes, gym and online accounts

Make It an Afternoon’s Job

Gather your marriage certificates, a list of accounts and a cup of tea, and try to do most of it in a single afternoon. Many changes can be done online or with one phone call.

For other post-wedding jobs, have a look at my list of things to do after your wedding.

Rules can change, so always check gov.uk for the latest guidance on your circumstances.