Changing Your Name When Getting Divorced

When you get divorced, you can choose what name to use. You can revert to your previous name, keep your married name, or choose a different name.

Your Options

Revert to Your Maiden Name

You can return to the name you used before marriage. This is often called your maiden name.



You need a deed poll to revert to your maiden name. Your divorce decree is not enough on its own.

Keep Your Married Name

You can continue using your married name after divorce. You do not need to change your name.



No deed poll or documentation is needed to keep using your current name.

Choose a Different Name

You can change to a completely different name that you have not used before.



You need a deed poll for this.

Do You Need a Deed Poll?

Your divorce decree does not change your name. It only ends your marriage.


If you want to change your name after divorce, you need a deed poll. This applies even if you are reverting to your previous name.


You can read our full guide on changing your name by deed poll.

Why Your Divorce Decree Is Not Enough

Your divorce decree proves your marriage has ended. It does not prove you have changed your name.


To update your documents, organisations need proof of your name change. A deed poll provides this proof.



You use your divorce decree and deed poll together. The divorce decree shows you are divorced. The deed poll shows your new name.

When to Change Your Name

You can change your name at any point during or after your divorce process.

During Divorce Proceedings

You can apply for a deed poll while your divorce is in progress. You do not need to wait for the final divorce decree.



However, most people wait until after the divorce is finalised. This avoids complications if the divorce process takes longer than expected.

After Divorce

Most people change their name after receiving their final divorce decree.



This is simpler because you have all the documentation you need. You can use your divorce decree and deed poll together to update your records.

Making the Decision

Deciding whether to change your name after divorce is personal. There is no right or wrong choice.

Reasons to Revert to Your Previous Name

Some people revert to their previous name because:

  • They want to distance themselves from the marriage
  • They prefer their original identity
  • They want to match other family members
  • Professional or personal reasons

Reasons to Keep Your Married Name

Some people keep their married name because:

  • They have built a professional identity with that name
  • They want to keep the same name as their children
  • They have used the name for many years
  • Changing documents seems too complicated
  • They simply prefer the name

Both choices are equally valid. Choose what feels right for you.

Children and Name Changes

If you have children who share your married name, you may want to consider whether to keep the same name.


However, parents and children do not need to have the same surname. Many families have different surnames.


Your decision about your own name is separate from any decisions about your children's names.


If each person with parental responsibility agrees, you can also change your children's names to match your own new name.

Updating Your Documents

After changing your name, you need to update your documents with various organisations.


See who to inform after changing your name for a complete list and guidance.

Using Your Divorce Decree and Deed Poll Together

When updating documents, you provide both your divorce decree and your deed poll.


The divorce decree proves your marriage has ended. The deed poll proves your name change.



Together, they show organisations that your name change is legitimate and connected to your divorce.

Timeline for Updates

There is no legal deadline for updating your name with most organisations.


However, your driving licence must be kept up to date. Update this as soon as possible after changing your name.



For other documents, update them at your own pace. Some people update everything immediately. Others spread updates over several months.

Financial Considerations

Changing your name after divorce does not affect:

  • Financial settlements
  • Property division
  • Maintenance payments
  • Custody arrangements

Your legal identity remains the same even if your name changes. Financial and legal obligations continue under your new name.

If You Change Your Mind

If you change your name after divorce and later want to change it again, you can do so.

There is no limit on how many times you can change your name. You simply need a new deed poll for each change.

Privacy and Safety

If you are changing your name for safety or privacy reasons, a deed poll is private and confidential.


Your name change is not published publicly. Only you and the organisations you inform will know about the change.



If you have concerns about safety, consider which organisations you inform and when.

Emotional Aspects

Changing your name after divorce can be emotionally significant. It may represent:

  • A fresh start
  • Reclaiming your identity
  • Moving forward
  • Closure

Take time to make the decision that feels right for you. There is no rush.

Apply for Your Deed Poll

If you want to change your name after divorce, you need a deed poll.



Apply online with Deedly and receive your deed poll within days.