How to Change Your Name on National Insurance

Need to change your name on National Insurance records? Learn how to update HMRC, what documents are required, and what happens after.

If you’ve changed your name due to marriage, divorce, deed poll or any other reason, you’ll need to update your records with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Keeping your National Insurance (NI) records accurate is essential for tax, pensions, benefits, and employment purposes.

This guide explains how to change your name on your National Insurance record, what documents you’ll need, and what happens after your change is processed.

Why Do You Need to Update Your National Insurance Name?

Your NI number is linked to your personal identity. If your name changes but your records don’t, it can lead to confusion or delays with:

  • Payslips and payroll processing

  • Tax coding

  • National Insurance contributions

  • State Pension tracking

  • Student loans or benefit claims

Keeping your HMRC records up to date ensures your identity matches across official systems.

How to Change Your Name on Your National Insurance Record

To change your name, you need to notify HMRC by writing to them by post. There’s currently no online process to update your name for National Insurance purposes.

Send your request to:

National Insurance Contributions and Employers Office
HMRC
BX9 1AN
United Kingdom

Include:

  • Your National Insurance number

  • Your old name and new name

  • The reason for the name change (e.g. marriage, divorce, deed poll)

  • A signed and dated request stating that you wish to update your NI record

Documents You Need to Provide

You must include original documents (not copies). These may include:

  • Marriage certificate

  • Decree absolute (if reverting to a maiden name)

  • Deed poll or statutory declaration (for other name changes)

  • Passport or driving licence (as proof of identity)

HMRC will return all original documents after your record is updated.

After You’ve Reported the Change

HMRC will:

  1. Update your National Insurance record with your new name

  2. Return your documents to the address provided

  3. Notify you by letter when the change is complete

You should allow up to 6 weeks for the update to be processed, though it may take longer if more information is required.

If you receive benefits or tax credits, you may need to update your details separately through those specific services.

Do I Need to Tell My Employer?

Yes. Once HMRC has updated your record, you should also:

  • Inform your employer of the change

  • Update your name on payroll and HR systems

  • Check your payslip and tax code reflect the update

  • Update your name with your pension provider and student loan account if applicable

Changing Your Name on Other Government Records

In addition to HMRC, remember to update your name with:

  • DVLA (for your driving licence)

  • Passport Office

  • DWP (if claiming benefits or the State Pension)

  • Your GP surgery and NHS records

Keeping all official records aligned will avoid delays with services, identification checks and tax records.

Final Thoughts

To change your name on your National Insurance record, you’ll need to write to HMRC with supporting documents. There’s no online process for this yet, so allow time for postal processing and document return.

Once completed, update your employer and any relevant government departments to ensure consistency across your records. A simple step today helps avoid confusion later – especially when it comes to tax, pension, and benefit entitlements.