Can I change my name before my divorce is final?
Yes. Your name is not tied to your marital status in England and Wales, so you can revert to your maiden name or choose another name at any point during the divorce.
CalmSplit uses the names on your marriage certificate for the court paperwork, so a name change does not disrupt your application.
- No court permission is needed to change your name
- The court paperwork uses your married name from the certificate
- Some organisations want a deed poll before the Final Order
One-off CalmSplit fee. HMCTS court fees are paid separately to the court.
Check suitabilityStart free and pay the one-off £159 when you are ready to prepare your application.
See how it worksHow to do it
- Reverting to your maiden name: your birth certificate plus marriage certificate is often enough
- Before the Final Order, banks and HM Passport Office may ask for a deed poll
- After the Final Order, the Final Order plus birth certificate is usually accepted
- Update your driving licence, passport, bank, employer, GP, HMRC and utilities
Does it affect the divorce?
No. The application names you as you appear on the marriage certificate. You can note a change of name so correspondence uses the right name.
Children's surnames
Changing a child's surname needs the consent of everyone with parental responsibility, or a court order. It is not covered by your own name change.
Frequently asked questions
Related CalmSplit pages
Check suitability
Start free and pay the one-off £159 when you are ready to prepare your application.
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