Do I need to update anything after getting married?

Getting married does not automatically change your legal identity. Your marriage certificate is the proof you need if you decide to take your partner's name. There is no central form to file with the government. You can keep your own name, take your partner's, or combine them in any way you like.

If you do change your name, start with your passport and bank accounts. These are often the documents other organisations ask for first. Then update your employer, pension provider, utility companies and any clubs or subscriptions. Your doctor's surgery and local council may also need a new name for their records.

Some couples prefer to keep their own names for work or family reasons, and that is perfectly fine. If you are unsure where to start, list the places you interact with most often. Your marriage certificate will be the key document for most of these updates.