Deed poll vs statutory declaration — which do I need to change my name?
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In short: In England, Wales and Northern Ireland an unenrolled deed poll* is the everyday name-change document. A statutory declaration* is a separate sworn statement used for other admin (and is the traditional Scotland route). They are not interchangeable.
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A deed poll* records that you abandon your old name and adopt a new one. Two independent adult witnesses watch you sign in wet ink. No solicitor is required for a standard unenrolled adult document. Most passport, DVLA, bank and HMRC updates use this route. Instant Deed Poll issues a personalised PDF from around £14.99.
A statutory declaration* is declared true under the Statutory Declarations Act 1835 before a solicitor, commissioner for oaths or similar authorised person — typically with a statutory witnessing fee. It proves facts (for example single status for some overseas marriages, or supporting evidence for enrolment) rather than being the default England and Wales name-change instrument.
In Scotland, people born or adopted there can also record a name change with National Records of Scotland; a statutory declaration is often preferred locally even though UK organisations also accept change-of-name deeds. Compare products at Instant Deed Poll’s statutory declaration* and enrolled vs unenrolled* guides. Official overview: www.gov.uk/change-name-deed-poll
Primary source: gov.uk/change-name-deed-poll
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