How to change name after marriage?

Answer

There’s a lot to consider when you’re getting married or entering into a civil partnership, and many feel that changing their name is a huge decision that’s not to be taken lightly. 

Changing your name, whether that’s taking your partner's surname, double-barrelling them, or even ‘name blending’ (which means blending both surnames together), can involve a lot of paperwork and notifications to make.

Do I have to change my name after marriage?

No, when you get married or enter into a Civil Partnership there is no legal obligation to change your name. 

No matter what your decision is, though, it’s important to discuss this with your partner before your wedding so you both know what to expect. For some, they’re excited to take their partner's name. For others, it might feel like a loss of identity.

You also don’t have to change your name immediately. You can wait as long as you like before officially taking your partner’s surname, whether that’s waiting until you start a family or needing to update your passport.

How to change your name after marriage

Once you’re married, your marriage or civil partnership certificate is the only evidence you’ll need to legally change your name on all documents (including your bank, bills and passport).

The only caveat to this is if you want to merge both surnames or take your spouse’s surname but make your maiden name a new middle name, for which you’ll have to submit an official Change of Name Deed (more commonly known as a deed poll).

However, if you’re a homeowner or looking to purchase, you’ll need to change your name in the Land Register (sometimes known as ‘house deeds’). To do this, you’ll need to complete and submit an AP1 form along with your marriage certificate (or a certified copy, which you can get from most solicitors). 

This can be especially important when you come to buy a property or refinance/remortgage, as some lenders will refuse to lend money if your name doesn’t exactly match that on the register.

Where to change your name after marriage

Once you’re married, there’s quite a long list of people/organisations you might want to notify if you’re changing your name. Most of these will have their own system for name changes which might be as simple as filling in a quick online form or even giving them a call.

For a lot of them, a Marriage or Civil Partnership Certificate will be required, so it’ll be worth getting a few certified copies organised with your solicitor or other professional.

You might want to consider:

• Relevant government bodies like the Land Registry, HM Revenue and Customs, The Passport Office, DVLA and Local Authority or Council (for Council Tax)
• Any relevant benefits office(s) (like Child Benefits, Universal Credit, Pension Credits, PIP etc)
• Employer
• Bank, Building Society and Credit Card providers
• Loans provider
• Landlord or Mortgage provider
• Pension provider
• Student Loans Company
• Utility providers (like gas, electric and water companies)
• GP and dentist
• Vet

How much does it cost to change your name after marriage?

For the most part, a simple change of name after marriage in the legal sense is free, though individual bodies (such as the Passport Office and DVLA) will have their own fees.

If you’re adding your maiden name to your middle name(s) or meshing both surnames to create a new one, you will have to submit a Deed Poll which may be chargeable depending on which route you take and whether you enlist the help of an expert solicitor or not.

How can GloverPriest Help?

If you’d like help changing your name on your house deeds, would like to discuss your Deed Poll options or just need certified copies of your marriage or civil partnership certificate, GloverPriest’s expert Family Law Solicitors are here to help. 
Get in touch today for more information.