Deed Poll vs Statutory Declaration

A deed poll and a statutory declaration are both legal documents that you use to legally change your name. Which one you need depends on where you live in the United Kingdom.

Which Document You Need

If you live in England or Wales, you use a deed poll to change your name.

If you live in Scotland, you use a statutory declaration to change your name.



Northern Ireland residents can use either a deed poll or a statutory declaration.

Deed Polls

A deed poll is a legal document that records your name change. You sign it in front of two independent witnesses. It states that you are abandoning your old name and adopting your new name.

Deed polls are used in England and Wales, though organisations across the United Kingdom must accept a deed poll as proof of a name change.

You can learn more about how deed polls work in more detail.

Statutory Declarations

A statutory declaration is a formal statement made before a solicitor, notary public, or justice of the peace. It declares that you are changing your name.



Statutory declarations are the standard method for changing your name in Scotland. They serve the same purpose as a deed poll but involve a different legal process.

Which One You Need

Your choice depends on where you live, not where you were born. Both documents are valid throughout the entire United Kingdom.

If you currently live in England or Wales, use a deed poll. If you currently live in Scotland, use a statutory declaration. If you currently live in Northern Ireland, you can choose either.

Apply for Your Deed Poll

If you live in England or Wales, apply online with Deedly.

Our name change experts will prepare your deed poll, post it to your door, and you can start using your new name within days.