Do You Need a Deed Poll After Divorce?
After a divorce, many people want to revert to their maiden name or adopt a new name entirely. Whether you need a Deed Poll depends on what name you want to use:
- Reverting to your maiden name: Some organisations accept a Decree Absolute as proof, but many (especially banks) prefer or require a Deed Poll. Getting one eliminates any ambiguity.
- Choosing a completely new name: You will need a Deed Poll, as the Decree Absolute only proves the divorce, not a name change.
- Keeping your married name: No action needed — you can continue using your married name indefinitely.
Using Your Decree Absolute vs. a Deed Poll
Your Decree Absolute (or Final Order, as it is now called) is your official proof of divorce. While HM Passport Office does accept it as evidence when reverting to a maiden name, many other organisations are more difficult:
- Banks often require a Deed Poll in addition to the Decree Absolute
- The DVLA prefers a Deed Poll for name changes
- Some insurance companies and utility providers only accept Deed Polls
Our recommendation: Even if you are reverting to your maiden name, getting a Deed Poll for £14.99 saves you time and frustration by providing a single, universally accepted document.
Step-by-Step: Changing Your Name After Divorce
- Wait for your Decree Absolute / Final Order — You cannot change your name until the divorce is finalised.
- Get a Deed Poll — Generate one instantly through our service.
- Sign and witness — Sign in front of an independent adult witness.
- Update your passport — Apply to HM Passport Office with your Deed Poll.
- Update your driving licence — Notify the DVLA (usually free).
- Update your bank accounts — Visit your branch with the Deed Poll and photo ID.
- Notify everyone else — HMRC, employer, GP, utilities, insurance, etc.
Changing Children's Names After Divorce
Your children's names do not change automatically when you divorce. To change a child's name, you need the consent of everyone with Parental Responsibility (usually both parents). If you cannot obtain consent, you may need to apply to the court for permission.
We offer a dedicated Child Deed Poll service for this purpose.
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Create My Deed Poll — £14.99Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Deed Poll to revert to my maiden name after divorce?
It depends. If you are reverting to your maiden name (the name on your birth certificate), some organisations will accept your Decree Absolute as proof. However, many banks and other organisations specifically ask for a Deed Poll, so having one avoids complications.
Can I change to a completely new name after divorce?
Yes. If you want to adopt a name that is neither your married name nor your birth name, you will definitely need a Deed Poll.
How soon after divorce can I change my name?
You can change your name as soon as the Decree Absolute is issued. You do not need to wait any specific period.
Will I need to update my children's names too?
Children's names do not automatically change. If you want to change a child's surname, you need a separate Deed Poll and the consent of everyone with Parental Responsibility.