01793 384033
Reviewed by Mark Keenan, Founder and CEO, Online Legal Services Limited · Last updated 30 October 2026
Going back to your maiden name after divorce is one of the most common name changes in England and Wales, and in many cases you do not need a deed poll at all. This guide explains what each type of organisation will ask for, when your divorce papers are enough, and when a deed poll makes things simpler.
Can I go back to my maiden name before my divorce is final?
Yes. In England and Wales your name is simply the name you use, so you can start using your previous surname whenever you like. What changes over time is the evidence organisations will accept to update their records.
Changing your passport back to your maiden name
HM Passport Office does not need a deed poll, a decree absolute or a final order to change your passport back to a previous surname. According to GOV.UK, you send your passport application with:
- your birth certificate
- a statement signed by you saying you have gone back to your previous surname “for all purposes”
- a document showing you are using the name, such as a payslip or a letter from your local council
- your marriage or civil partnership certificate showing both names
If you have lost your marriage certificate you can order a copy from GOV.UK.
Is a decree absolute or final order enough?
Since April 2022 the decree absolute has been replaced by the final order. They do the same job: they prove your marriage has legally ended.
Many banks, employers and other organisations will update your name if you show them your marriage certificate together with your final order or decree absolute. Some will not, and policies vary from one organisation to the next. If you are refused, or you would rather not send your divorce papers to every organisation you deal with, a deed poll is a simple alternative.
When a deed poll is the better option
- An organisation will not accept your divorce papers as evidence of your previous name.
- You want a name that is not simply your previous surname, for example a new surname, a family name or a different spelling.
- You are changing your first or middle names at the same time.
- You would rather not share your divorce documents with banks, employers and other organisations.
A deed poll is a single document that records your change of name and can be shown to any organisation. You can order an adult deed poll online for £15.99, and we send it by free 1st Class post on the next working day.
What about my children’s surname?
Your divorce does not change your children’s names, and your own deed poll does not cover them. To change a child’s surname you need the consent of everyone with parental responsibility, or a court order. Read our guide to changing a child’s name by deed poll before you start.
Still going through your divorce?
If you have not finished your divorce yet, our sister company Divorce-Online has been helping people through the divorce process in England and Wales since 1999.
Need help?
If you are not sure which documents you need, email [email protected] or call 01793 384033 and our team will help.
