How to change your name on a credit card

There are many reasons you might want to change your name – marriage, divorce, or simply preferring a different name. Whatever the reason, if you have credit cards or other credit agreements, you'll need to inform your lenders of your new name.

In this blog, we'll walk you through the steps to change your name on your credit card.

Let your lender know

Changing your name on your credit card is straightforward. The first step is to notify your lender that you will now be known by a different name.

You can do this by letter or, if your credit card is with a high street lender, you may be able to do it by visiting one of their branches. It's a good idea to check with your lender first to ensure they allow in-person name changes, so you don't make a wasted trip.

What you need to provide

Whether you notify your lender by letter or in person, you'll need to provide some information and documentation:

• Your credit card number
• A covering letter (if you do it by post) explaining the name change
• Your new and old signature
• Evidence of your name change (such as a marriage certificate, decree absolute, or Deed Poll, depending on why you've changed your name)

Lenders will typically require the original documentation to prove your name change. That said, it’s best to always check first to see exactly what you need to send. If you're sending documentation by post, consider using recorded or special delivery to ensure it arrives safely, and be sure to find out how they intend to return your documents.

How long will it take?

Changing your name on your credit card can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. The exact timing will depend on the lender. It's a good idea to check with them for specific timelines.

What to do if there are issues

If you run into any issues or delays in the process, contact your lender's customer service for assistance. They can provide updates on the status of your request and help solve any problems.

Additional tips

Since you'll need to update your name with various entities – driving licence, passport, bills, doctor, and so on – it might be helpful to get a second copy of your documentation (e.g., a duplicate marriage certificate). This would help you change your name with multiple companies at the same time.