I’ve been married for more than 15 years, and I wondered whether at this stage I can add my maiden name to my husbands surname, or do I have to change my name by deed poll?
You can change your surname more or less as you choose as long as you are an adult and your motive isn’t fraudulent. However if you wish to change the name on your bank account, with the Department for Work and Pensions or HMRC you may have to provide evidence that you have adopted a new name. The most formal method of regularising the change is to have a change of name deed drawn up by a solicitor. If you just wish to be known by your double-barrelled name this shouldn’t be necessary though.