How to Double-Barrel Your Surname in the UK
Quick answer
Checked by Sarah Ellison, paralegal — last reviewed 6 January 2026
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Do I need a deed poll to double-barrel?
Usually, yes — it is the only route that works everywhere. A marriage certificate can sometimes cover a post-wedding double-barrel, but many organisations (including some banks) refuse it because the certificate does not state the new combined name. Outside marriage, a deed poll is always required. The document itself is the same £14.99 adult deed poll — your new name is simply the double-barrelled one.
Hyphen or space — and whose name goes first?
Entirely your choice: “Smith-Jones”, “Smith Jones”, “Jones-Smith” — all are valid. Choose the exact form you want and use it consistently; the deed poll records it character-for-character and every record-holder follows the document.
Can we blend our surnames into a new one?
Yes — a blended or entirely new surname is a normal deed poll name change. Because no marriage or divorce certificate could ever evidence it, the deed poll is the single document that proves it. The same applies to changing first or middle names at the same time.
How do children get a double-barrelled surname?
Through a child deed poll, with the consent of everyone who holds parental responsibility — usually both parents. See changing your child’s surname and the child deed poll pack, which includes the consent letters HMPO and schools may ask for.
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