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By thecheckpeople_admin
Published 4:10 pm

I’ve Changed My Name – Do I Need To Update My DBS Check?

A DBS check is a record of your criminal history, but what happens when you change your name through? If you change your name, can the DBS find you after filling out an application? Today, The Check People will answer the question I’ve changed my name – do I need to update my DBS check? By the end, you should have all the information you need to know regarding DBS check and name changes.

Reasons for a Name Change

There are many reasons an individual might change their name. The most common reason being through marriage or following a divorce. However, other potential reasons can include religious conversion, honouring relatives, contributing to professional identity, or because your current name is complicated to spell and pronounce.

changing your name

DBS Check Name Change

There are no laws about informing the DBS check following a name change. But considering DBS checks do not expire, it may be worth looking into, especially since it has been a while since they completed your last DBS check.

DBS will not automatically update your name when you request it, however. Instead, you will either need to apply for a new DBS check with updated names or use the Update Service.

Will You Need to Pay Again?

If you want to put your name change on record, then you will need to pay the DBS fee again. Depending on the level of DBS check you require, this will be anywhere between £23.00 and £40.00. While some companies will pay this fee for you, in the event of a name change, this may be your responsibility.

What Can You Do?

Aside from applying for a new DBS check, you can sign up for the DBS Update Service. This is a common solution for those who like to keep their DBS information up to date. The Update Service allows you to update any information on the certificate and costs £13 per year. You must apply for the Update Service within 14 days after receiving the certificate

If you apply for another DBS check, you will need to include all previous names along with your current name so those carrying out the check can trace and find information easily.

signing a document

Potential Issues

While it is not illegal to change your name, there are still potential issues that you could encounter when applying for a new DBS check. The most likely issue is that you do not include any past names on your application, and this could delay your application while those undertaking the check try to find you.

Similarly, if you change your name to something more common, or even previously shared a common name (such as James Smith, Emily Jones, etc.), there is a risk for mistakes during the application process. It’s possible that your details could be confused with someone else’s. If this person who shares or shared your name has a criminal history, it could affect your job application.

For these reasons, it’s essential that you note down any previous names and include as much information as you can to distinguish yourself with others who share your name.

Summing Up

After changing your name, you are under no obligation to update your DBS check if you do not want to. However, if you have applied for the Update Service prior to changing your name or you change your name within the timeframe where the Update Service application is possible, the opportunity is there.

If you do not use the update service, you will need to provide all previous names should you require another DBS check.

If you need more information for everything about DBS checks, make sure to browse The Check People Blog to answer any additional questions you might have.

Sources

  1. Do I have to update my CRB check after I’ve changed my name? – UK Deed Poll Office
  2. Reasons for a Name Change – Name Change Topics – Legal Zoom