Change of surname

bk1973

I want to change the last name of my family. This is due to many personal reasons, lets call it a clean start.

I have read up on deed poll about this, but want to hear of any one on this forum that may have done this.

I am married, with 3 kids aged 5,8 and 10.

Any experiences or advice, just want to go into this with my eyes open.

Yorkie1

If the other parent of the children has parental responsibility, have you double checked whether you can change their names without the consent of that other parent (if that's what you propose to do)?

bk1973

Forgot to say that we are still together and both my wife and I have agreed that this would be a good move for us.

When making a name change, do i need to change EVERYTHING?
eg, bank accounts, driving licenses, house deeds, wills, etc,etc,etc
Literally, everything that has both our names on?

A quick run through of things made me realise what a mammoth task we have ahead of us.

Person_one

I'm assuming the 'clean start' isn't because of anything legal or financial? If so that might change the situation a bit.

Here's more info:

http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/england/relationships_e/relationships_birth_certificates_and_changing_your_name_e/change_of_name.htm

moneysaymoneydo

You can change your name to anything you like just call Dr, bank etc or write informing them of what you etc are to be called in future, and its up to you if you change by deed poll also, so yes go ahead write to school of kids whatever with new name.

claire16c

My SIL did this. Its a hassle but only admin wise, just type up a letter and then send it out to all the relevant people.

The most irritating is passport because they charge you the price of a new one! (hence why Im not changing mine on that until it runs out)

Driving license was easy just fill in a form I think?

lolavix

moneysaymoneydo wrote: »

You can change your name to anything you like just call Dr, bank etc or write informing them of what you etc are to be called in future, and its up to you if you change by deed poll also, so yes go ahead write to school of kids whatever with new name.

Not sure about doctors but with banks you would need to provide proof eg deed poll

sparrer

I changed my name when my ex and I divorced, had no trouble with changing the children's surnames and have never been asked for proof from anyone, including banks, DVLA, passport office etc., except Virgin. They flatly refused to recognise my new name until I said I'd close my account and open a new one. All of a sudden the bills started to be sent in my new name . As deed poll is no longer a legal requirement a letter should suffice for all departments/agencies.

fluffnutter

bk1973 wrote: »

Any experiences or advice, just want to go into this with my eyes open.

Yep. When changing your name pick a good one that you like. Not Pratt or Moron.

rosie-lee

There is absolutely NO need to pay any so called deed poll company to change your name.

The fancy piece of paper they give you has no more legality than a letter you type up yourself.

flutterby_lil

I changed my son's name to the surname of my new partner and father of my youngest via deedpoll.

Very easy to do and cheap, about £28 if i remember correctly.

It is all legal and things like my sons pension, birth certificate and all bank accounts have now been changed. I had to send a copy of the deedpoll, which was very easy to do.