Change Name After Bereavement UK | Take a Late Partner's Name

What is your new name?

Who is this deed poll for?

MyselfAged 16 or over — £14.99 My childUnder 16 — £19.99

Name you are changing from

First name

Middle name optional

Last name

Name you are changing to

First name

Middle name optional

Last name

A few details about you

Email address

Only used to retrieve your deed poll if you lose it. No marketing emails.

Date of birth

Day

Month

Year

Your current address

Address line 1

Address line 2 optional

Town / City

Postcode

Date of deed

Your witnesses

A UK deed poll requires two witnesses. They must be adults, not related to you, and present when you sign. They do not need to be a solicitor.

Legally recognised across the UK Secure payment via Stripe Instant PDF download No account needed

Add the letter pack All 9 letters written for you and filled in with your details — ready to print, sign and post. £6.99

See the 9 letters

Address included, ready to post

HMRC — tax and National Insurance
DVLA — driving licence

You add the address

HM Passport Office
Bank or building society
GP surgery / NHS
Employer — HR and payroll
Local council — council tax and electoral register
Utilities & broadband
Pension provider

Being straight with you: the DVLA and passport letters are cover letters — a driving licence is changed with the free D1 form, and a passport needs a new application. The letters make the paperwork easier, not different.

Post me printed copies 2 copies on heavyweight 100gsm paper, 1st class next working day — as well as your instant download. £7.99

Deed poll £14.99

Make your deed poll — £14.99

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Common questions

Can I take my late partner's name if we were not married?

Yes. A deed poll can be used to take any name, including a deceased partner's name, regardless of whether you were married. There is no requirement for a prior legal relationship.

Is there a waiting period after bereavement before I can change my name?

No. You can change your name by deed poll at any time; there is no required waiting period following a bereavement.

Do I need a deed poll to revert to my maiden name after my spouse dies?

Not necessarily. If you are simply reverting to the exact name you had before marriage, many organisations will accept your marriage certificate and death certificate together. A deed poll is a cleaner single document if you prefer, or if you want a name that is not exactly your pre-marriage name.

Will the deed poll mention bereavement or the reason for the change?

No. A deed poll simply states your current name and your new name. It does not reference bereavement or any personal reason for the change. Your reasons are private.

Can I take a hyphenated name that combines my surname with my late partner's?

Yes. A deed poll can be used to create any combination of names, including a double-barrelled name that incorporates both your surname and your late partner's.