Changing your name is a big deal and comes with several lifestyle changes. From getting used to people calling you by your new name to purchasing new ID cards and other documents, there are plenty of things to consider. Changing your name is also a legal process that requires you to inform all the relevant parties of your decision. This includes government agencies such as HM Passport Office, DVLA and Companies House, but it also extends to banks, credit card providers and utility companies. To help you get started, we have listed some organisations you should inform about your name change. Read on.
DVLA
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) should be your first port of call when changing your name. You need to update your driving licence and car registration document as soon as possible. This is because these documents are used to prove your identity, so they must reflect your new name. The process for updating your driving licence is fairly straightforward. You can do it online, by post or in person at a DVLA office. For more information on how to change your name on your driving licence, visit the DVLA website.
Passport Office
Changing your name on your passport should be the first thing you must do after a name change process. The procedure is simple: you must submit an application and the required documents and pay the applicable fees.
HM Passport Office
If you have a passport in your old name, you will need to get a new one issued in your new name. You can complete a passport application form and send it off to the HM Passport Office, along with your old passport, two photographs and the appropriate fee. For more information on changing your passport name, visit the HM Passport Office website.
Companies House
If you are a limited company director or run your own business, you will need to inform Companies House of your new name. Your name is recorded on the public register of directors. To change your name on the register, you must complete and submit Form IN01. You can do this online or by post.
Banks and Building Societies
If you have a bank account, credit card or loan in your old name, you will need to inform your bank or building society of your new name. This is so that they can update their records and send you any future correspondence in your new name. You will also need to update your direct debits and standing orders.
Credit Card Providers
Besides informing your bank or building society about your name change, you will also need to inform any other credit card providers with whom you have an account. This is so that they can update their records and send you any future correspondence in your new name. Get in touch with your credit card provider and ask them to change your details on their system.
Utility Companies
If you have any utility bills in your old name (for example, gas, electricity, water or council tax), you will need to inform the relevant company of your new name so that they can update their records and send you any future correspondence in your new name. However, you will not need to cancel your old account and open a new one in your new name – notify the customer service team of your name change, and they will update their records.
Final Word
When changing your name, there are many things to think about, but informing the relevant organisations should be at the top of your list. By doing so, you can ensure that your new name is reflected on all your official documents.
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Disclosure: This is a partnered post
