Updating Your Bank Accounts
and Financial Records

Banks are among the most stringent organisations when it comes to identity verification. Because of anti-money laundering (AML) regulations, you cannot simply change your name via a phone call. You will need to provide formal evidence of your transition.

1. The Banking Appointment

When you go to the bank, you should ask to speak with a "Personal Banker." You will typically need to bring:

• Your Original Deed Poll: Must be the wet-ink signed archival document.
• Photo ID: Ideally your updated Passport or Driving Licence. If you haven't updated these yet, bring your old ID.
• Debit Cards: Your bank will usually take your old cards and issue new ones in the mail.

2. Mortgages and Loans

If you have a mortgage, you must notify your lender. They will update the name on the account, but please note that this does not automatically change the name on the Land Registry. Updating the Land Registry is a separate legal process that usually requires a solicitor, though many people wait until they sell or remortgage the property to do this.

3. Credit Cards & Store Cards

For credit cards, you can often post your Deed Poll to their head office. Crucial Tip: Always send your document via Royal Mail Special Delivery. Never send your only original Deed Poll via standard post, as financial documents are high-risk if lost.

4. Joint Accounts

If you hold a joint account, the other account holder does not usually need to be present, but the bank will need to update the entire account's profile. New chequebooks and cards will be issued for both of you if the account name itself changes (e.g., from 'Mr & Mrs Smith' to 'Mr & Mrs Jones').