The Notary Public London Guide has previously mentioned the Deed Poll name change controversy on the ITV show, X Factor, when Simon Cowell refused to call a contestant by the name ‘Storm’.

We pointed out that not only is a name change by Deed Poll completely legal, and that Simon Cowell was incorrect to refuse to call the singer by his new name, but also what an easy process changing a name could be.  So we were delighted to learn this week that in a follow up show to the X Factor, Simon Cowell signed a Deed Poll name change document himself.

After ascertaining that he could hold the contract himself, Cowell signed the forms to declare that he would officially be called ‘Lightening’, albeit for a 24 hour period.

It’s only a pity that ITV didn’t approach MD Pryke Notary Public LLP for our free Deed Poll name change document, but we’re delighted that it highlights just how easy the process can be.

In fact, if one takes a strict legal view, you needn’t fill out any documentation if you decide to be known by a new name, the purpose of a Deed Poll is to provide an official form with which to notify various agencies of your new moniker, such as Credit companies and passport services.

To change a name using our free legal name change service simply follow the links on this page or call MD Pryke Notary Public LLP on 0207 6364422 for more details.

Ever since we launched our free Deed Poll download, MD Pryke Notary Public LLP has received a substantial number of enquiries regarding how to use a Deed Poll document to obtain further documentation.  We have used these Deed Poll queries as the basis for these Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I use my Free Deed Poll download to apply for a new Passport?

Simply enclose your Deed Poll certificate with the Passport application.  If you feel that the authorities may mislay your Deed Poll, you may wish to visit a Notary Public or a solicitor to obtain some official certified copies.

Is my free name change legally binding?

The free Deed Poll document is legally binding and will be accepted as proof of your name change by all government agencies.  It will also be accepted by Banks and Building societies, the DVLA and medical agencies.

Can I avoid creditors by changing my name by Deed Poll?

No.  It is illegal to change your name for the purpose of trying to avoid debts or to misrepresent yourself in any way.  Once you change your name by Deed Poll you are obliged to inform all official agencies of the name change.

Can I use my Deed Poll to change my Birth Certificate?

It is highly unusual to change the name on a Birth Certificate.  The Birth Certificate is an official record that declares a person’s name in their infancy, rather than the name they wish to assume.  There are certain circumstances where Birth Certificates can be altered but a Deed Poll is not used to make these changes.

For further information on any aspect of changing a name by Deed Poll, please contact MD Pryke Notary Public LLP via any of the usual channels.

A Deed Poll is a document used for legally changing name.  Whatever the reason for a name change (changing a surname after divorce for example, or changing a first name) it can be completed free of charge by using an MD Pryke Notary Public LLP Deed Poll form as laid out below.

A Deed Poll is a term with which most people are familiar.  If they are intent on a new name people believe they must visit a Solicitor or a Notary Public to change name legally by Deed Poll.  A legal name change, however, is a simple process and can be completed free of charge in three easy steps.

Free name change step 1.

Download a free Deed Poll here

Free name change step 2.

Simply open the Deed Poll thumbnail and follow the instructions written in red.  You must delete the red writing and replace it as per the Deed Poll instructions.

Free name change step 3.

Once you have filled in the Deed poll, you must sign it and get it witnessed by an independent third party as per the instructions on the Deed Poll.

Once your Deed Poll is filled out correctly, you have now changed your name by Deed Poll.

Your name change is now 100% legal – KEEP THE DOCUMENT IN A SAFE PLACE!

Should anyone question your new name, this completed Deed Poll certificate will verify your change of identity.  To change your name on a Passport, government document, etc, you will need to present either your original Deed Poll or an official certified copy.

For further information on our free legal name change Deed Poll, or on any of our Notary Public Services please contact Matthew on 0207 6364422.