Congratulations on your recent marriage! As you embark on this exciting new chapter, one of the administrative tasks you might need to tackle is updating your name on your mortgage. While it might seem a little daunting, especially with a major lender like Nationwide, it's a relatively straightforward process once you know the steps.
Ready to get your mortgage details aligned with your new identity? Let's dive in!
How to Change Your Name on a Mortgage After Marriage with Nationwide: A Step-by-Step Guide
Changing your name on your mortgage with Nationwide Building Society after marriage involves a few key steps to ensure all your records are consistent and legally compliant. It's important to remember that while your mortgage obligation remains the same, updating your name on the account is crucial for various reasons, including future correspondence, identity verification, and potential property transactions.
Step 1: Gather Your Essential Documents (The "Proof is in the Pudding" Stage!)
Before you even think about contacting Nationwide, the first and most crucial step is to get all your ducks in a row. Having the right documents readily available will significantly smooth out the entire process.
- Your Marriage Certificate (the Star of the Show!): This is the primary legal document proving your name change due to marriage. You'll need an original or a certified copy.
- Proof of Identity (Your 'Who You Are' Documents): Nationwide will need to verify your identity. This typically includes:
- Your valid passport (if it's already updated with your new name, even better!)
- Your valid UK driving licence (photocard)
- Other acceptable photo ID as per Nationwide's guidelines.
- Proof of Address (Where You Live): Even if your address hasn't changed, they might request recent proof of address to ensure their records are up-to-date. Examples include:
- A utility bill (gas, electricity, water - usually less than 3 months old, not a mobile phone bill)
- A bank or building society statement (less than 3 months old)
- A council tax bill (less than 12 months old)
- A UK mortgage statement (less than 12 months old)
- Your Existing Nationwide Mortgage Account Details: Have your mortgage account number readily available. This will help Nationwide quickly locate your records.
- Old and New Signatures: Be prepared to provide both your previous signature and your new signature, as you'll likely need to update this on their forms.
Tip: It's a good idea to have several forms of ID and proof of address ready, just in case they request alternatives.
Step 2: Inform Nationwide Building Society
Once you have your documents prepared, it's time to officially notify Nationwide of your name change. Nationwide provides a few ways to do this.
Sub-step 2.1: Choose Your Preferred Method of Contact
Nationwide generally offers the following options for updating your personal details, including a name change:
- In Branch (Recommended for Personal Assistance): Visiting a local Nationwide branch is often the most straightforward and fastest way to handle a name change. A staff member can guide you through the form, verify your documents on the spot, and answer any questions you might have.
- By Post (For Convenience, but Slower): If visiting a branch isn't feasible, you can download and complete their "Change of Name" form (IF12) from the Nationwide website. You'll then need to post this, along with certified copies of your proof of name change, to their administration centre.
- Online (For Some Account Types, but Less Common for Mortgages): While Nationwide allows some detail changes online for certain products, for a mortgage name change, it's typically required to either visit a branch or send documents by post. Always check the official Nationwide website or contact them directly to confirm if online submission is an option for mortgage name changes.
Sub-step 2.2: Complete the Nationwide "Change of Name" Form (IF12)
If you opt for the postal method or want to be prepared before visiting a branch, download and carefully complete the Nationwide "Change of Name" form (IF12).
- Fill in all sections clearly and in BLOCK CAPITALS using black ink. This form is often scanned electronically, so clear handwriting is essential for faster processing.
- Provide your existing details as currently held by Nationwide. This includes your old name, account number, and sort code.
- Enter your new details accurately. This is where your married name goes.
- Indicate the reason for the name change as "Marriage/Civil Partnership."
- Sign the form with both your previous and new signatures.
Important Note: Do not cross out any sections you do not need to complete on the form. If your address or contact details have also changed, you may need to complete a separate 'Change of address' form.
Step 3: Submitting Your Documents
This step depends on the method you chose in Step 2.
Sub-step 3.1: If Visiting a Branch
- Take all your original documents (marriage certificate, passport, driving licence, proof of address, and the completed IF12 form if you filled it out beforehand) to your nearest Nationwide branch.
- A member of staff will verify your documents, take copies, and process your request. They may ask for your old and new signatures to be provided again on a separate internal document.
- They will return your original documents to you immediately.
Sub-step 3.2: If Sending by Post
- You must send certified copies of your supporting documents, not the originals, if you are sending by post. This is crucial to avoid losing valuable personal documents.
- Who can certify documents? Nationwide typically accepts certifications from professionals such as:
- Nationwide or The Mortgage Works employees
- Lawyers
- Bankers/Financial professionals
- Accountants
- Post Office staff
- FCA-registered mortgage brokers
- Independent Financial Advisers (IFAs)
- Notary publics
- The certifier must write their full name and occupation, sign, date, and confirm they have seen the original by including the statement "original seen." It should also include their company stamp where applicable.
- Mail the completed IF12 form and the certified copies of your documents to the address provided on the form, usually:
- Nationwide Building Society
- Swindon
- SN38 1NW
- Consider sending your documents via recorded delivery for peace of mind and proof of postage.
Step 4: Confirmation and Follow-up
Once Nationwide receives your request, they will process the name change on your mortgage account.
- Processing Time: While exact times can vary, expect it to take a few working days to a couple of weeks for the change to be fully reflected.
- New Correspondence: You should start receiving correspondence from Nationwide in your new name, including annual statements and any other mortgage-related communications.
- Keep Records: It's always a good idea to keep a copy of the completed "Change of Name" form and a record of the date you submitted it.
Step 5: Update Other Related Parties (Don't Forget the Domino Effect!)
Changing your name on your mortgage is just one piece of the puzzle. Remember to update your name with other crucial entities to ensure consistency across all your financial and personal records.
- Land Registry: While not strictly required immediately after marriage, it's advisable to update your name on the Land Registry records for your property. This can prevent delays when you eventually sell or remortgage the property. You don't usually need a solicitor for this and there's often no fee. You simply send a letter and a certified copy of your marriage certificate.
- Other Banks and Financial Institutions: Update all your other bank accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, and investments.
- Employer and Payroll: Inform your employer to ensure your salary, tax records, and pension are in your new name.
- HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC): Update your name for tax purposes.
- Driving Licence and Passport: If you haven't already, update your driving licence and passport to reflect your new name.
- Utility Providers: Inform your gas, electricity, water, and broadband providers.
- Insurance Companies: Update your name on home insurance, car insurance, life insurance, and any other policies.
Patience is key throughout this process. While Nationwide strives for efficiency, administrative changes can take time. By following these steps and being thorough, you'll ensure a smooth transition to your new married name on your mortgage!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to obtain a certified copy of my marriage certificate?
You can usually obtain certified copies of your marriage certificate from the register office where your marriage was registered. You might also be able to order them online from the General Register Office (GRO) or your local council website.
How to check if my name has been updated on my Nationwide mortgage?
You can check by reviewing your latest mortgage statement, logging into Nationwide's Internet Bank or Mortgage Manager (if you have access), or by contacting Nationwide directly via phone or by visiting a branch.
How to find the Nationwide "Change of Name" form (IF12)?
You can typically find this form by searching "Nationwide change of name form" on the official Nationwide Building Society website, or by visiting a Nationwide branch where they can provide you with a copy.
How to certify documents if I don't know a listed professional?
Many Post Offices offer a document certification service for a fee. Alternatively, ask a professional you already have a relationship with, such as your accountant or a bank manager from another bank, if they can certify documents for you.
How to update my name with the Land Registry after changing it on my mortgage?
You can update your name with the Land Registry by sending them a completed form (often Form AP1 or ID1, along with a marriage certificate) and a covering letter. Check the Land Registry website for the most up-to-date forms and guidance.
How to ensure my new name is reflected on all mortgage-related documents from Nationwide?
Once Nationwide processes your name change, all future correspondence and official documents related to your mortgage, such as annual statements and any new offers, should automatically be issued in your new name.
How to contact Nationwide's mortgage department for a name change query?
You can contact Nationwide's general customer service line (their main number is usually available on their website's "Contact Us" section) and ask to be directed to the mortgage department, or explain you need to update your name on your mortgage.
How to prevent delays when changing my name on the mortgage?
Ensure all documents are accurate, complete the form clearly, and provide certified copies when required. Visiting a branch can often expedite the verification process.
How to deal with joint mortgages if only one person changes their name?
If it's a joint mortgage and only one person is changing their surname due to marriage, the process remains largely the same for that individual, providing their marriage certificate as proof. The other mortgage holder's details will remain unchanged.
How to change my name on other Nationwide accounts (current accounts, savings) at the same time?
You can often update your name across all your Nationwide accounts simultaneously when you submit the "Change of Name" form (IF12). The form usually asks for all account numbers you hold with Nationwide, allowing them to apply the change across the board.
