Unenrolled Deed Poll vs Enrolled: Which One is Right for You?

Here at NameSwitch we specialise in all things name change, so it’s not surprising that we frequently get asked about deed polls. Because this topic can be a little confusing, we are here to break it down into super-simple terms and help you to determine if you need a deed poll, and if so, is an unenrolled deed poll versus an enrolled one right for you.

Understanding Deed Polls

The legal name change process begins with having the right official documents in hand. Post marriage or divorce, you’ll be able to use a marriage /civil partnership certificate or a decree absolute/final order as your official documentation. For any other reason, you will need to change your name by deed poll.

So, what is a deed poll? A deed poll is a legal document that allows you to change your name officially. Whilst you can start using your new name whenever you choose, to have it officially recognised by government bodies and official organisations, you will need this specific proof of name change document. The following scenarios require a deed poll:

• Changing your first name or changing/adding to your middle name
• Swapping a middle name with a first name
• Meshing surnames, which is the blending of two surnames into one
• Assuming a new name during gender transition or reassignment
• Taking on a new name other than a maiden name after divorce
• Combining a married name with a maiden name during or following divorce

You do NOT need a deed poll to change your name in the following situations (a marriage/civil partnership certificate or decree absolute/final order serves as your official proof):

• Changing your title
• Changing your surname after marriage
• Reverting to your maiden name after divorce
• Double-barrelling surnames (with or without a hyphen)

Types of Deed Poll: Enrolled vs Unenrolled Deed Poll

There are two types of deed polls accepted by UK companies and government agencies (HM Passport Office, DVLA, etc.) and the difference between enrolled and unenrolled deed poll is simple: an enrolled deed poll is registered with the Royal Courts of Justice and becomes public record and unenrolled deed poll will remain private.

It’s important to note that BOTH are legally recognised in the UK. Just because you may opt to have your deed poll unenrolled, doesn’t make it any less official.

Differences Between Enrolled and Unenrolled Deed Polls

Fun fact: Only 1% of UK deed polls are enrolled! However, both options are equally valid, have the same legal standing, and serve as official proof of name change with all UK government bodies.

There are a few minor differentiations between the two. Let’s break it down:

Unenrolled Deed Poll

If you are 16 years or older, you can use an unenrolled deed poll as proof of your new name in the UK. A specialist deed poll service provider, such as NameSwitch, can help you with an official change of name via deed poll without the high cost of a solicitor! Our secure and speedy deed poll online service makes it super-easy! Once your deed poll is signed, alongside an independent witness, it becomes legally binding and can be presented to all companies and government bodies without the need to register it with the Royal Courts of Justice. It’s simple, cost effective and will save you so much time!

And as we mentioned, it’s completely fine to not enrol your deed poll. You might decide the unenrolled option is best for you to simply avoid additional costs and paperwork or perhaps you wish to remain anonymous. Whatever the reason is, it makes no legal difference either way and the choice is entirely yours.

Enrolled Deed Poll

If you are 18 years or older and would like to have your new name on public record, then you will need to enrol your deed poll with the Royal Courts of Justice. Enrolling a deed poll essentially adds another layer of formality to your name change however, it’s not a requirement.

A few things to consider: There are multiple ways to obtain a deed poll. For example, you can hire a solicitor to create one for you. Or you can create your own deed poll for free, have two witnesses sign the document, and pay a fee to have it registered with the Royal Courts of Justice. You will need to use official forms provided by the government and it can take several months to be processed.

Name Change Requirements

To update your name officially, you will need legal documentation in-hand as proof. This can be a deed poll (enrolled or unenrolled), marriage/civil partnership certificate, or decree absolute/final order. Once you have that, you can get started!

If you have determined that a deed poll is right for you, then why not let NameSwitch help you on your name change journey! Our Adult Deed Poll Packages start at just £29.95. You can legally change your name without the cost of a solicitor and with no hidden fees! We’ll dispatch your deed poll to your home within 48 hours via Royal Mail Signed For. You can even request additional copies or opt to receive your deed poll with our 24-hour express dispatch. Once your deed poll is signed and witnessed, you will have a legal document that proves you’ve changed your name.

Pro Tip: We recommend you order at least one additional official copy of deed poll (if not a few certified copies/orignals), so that you can send multiple name change requests out in parallel. Why not check out our Deed Poll Premium Package – we will print and post 4 x ultra-quality deed poll original hard copies as well as our award-winning name change toolkit directly to your doorstep.

Deed Poll Witness Requirements UK

Two very common questions we get are who can witness a deed poll in the UK and how many witnesses are required?

Anyone aged 18 or older who is independent of the name-changer (not a family member or partner) can serve as a witness. The deed poll witness must live at a different address as the person changing their name, must know the name changer and be able to confirm their identity. An acceptable deed poll witness could be a friend, colleague, or neighbour and is required to be present at the time of signing.

How many witnesses you need to have present when signing the deed poll can vary. If you use a specialist deed poll provider, such as NameSwitch, you only need 1 witness present. The same applies if you choose to hire a solicitor. If you decide to enrol your deed poll and have it registered with the Royal Courts of Justice, you will need 2 independent witnesses present when signing.

Utilising an Unenrolled Deed Poll: FAQ’s

Can I use an unenrolled deed poll for passport?

Absolutely! However, the UK Passport Office will need to see your original deed poll along with “proof of use,” such as your driving licence, bank statement, council tax statement or utility bill in your new name. We recommend you tackle one of those prior to applying for a new passport.

For more information on how to officially change your name on your passport, check out our helpful name change on passport guide.

Do banks accept unenrolled deed poll?

The answer is yes! All government bodies and UK companies will accept an unenrolled deed poll as proof of name change. NameSwitch can help you change your name with banks and over 700 other companies and government agencies with the UK’s only deed poll and name change bundle.

Does the DVLA accept an unenrolled deed poll?

Yes, they do! In fact, changing your name with the DVLA is a great place to get started once you have your deed poll in hand. You can find a wealth of information and helpful pro tips in our change name on driving licence guide.

Can I use a deed poll instead of a marriage certificate or final order?

Absolutely! Although a deed poll is not required in these circumstances, it can make the name change process more convenient and save you time. It can take several weeks to apply for and receive your legal documents from the register’s office or court and you may face delays. They normally cost between £11 - £12.50 per official copy, express charges will vary.

With NameSwitch’s Deed Poll Premium Print Package, you can bypass the wait and have your official documents in hand in just a few days.

Deed Poll Name Change: Next Steps with NameSwitch

Why choose NameSwitch? With NameSwitch, you can have your official deed poll in-hand, quickly, affordably, and without the hassle of hiring a solicitor! NameSwitch is also the ONLY deed poll provider to offer a personalised name change toolkit complete with notification letters, forms and guidance. Most importantly, we offer human support. Every single order is checked for accuracy so it’s done right, the first time. And if you have questions, we are there for you every step of the way. Our team is on-hand to help with even the most complicated cases. Whether you choose to enrol your deed poll or not, you can start using your new name knowing it will be recognised and accepted by all UK governing bodies and companies.